Chef Partner Splits With North County's Popular Campfire & Jeune Et Jolie Restaurants

July 17, 2020

It was announced earlier today that Chef Andrew Bachelier has split with the two popular Carlsbad restaurants he helped found - Campfire & Jeune et Jolie.

"This guy changed my life," wrote Campfire & Jeune et Jolie co-founder John Resnick. "My friend and partner [Andrew Bachelier] has decided to walk a new path. I’m so damn proud of him."

In late 2016, Consortium Holdings alum John Resnick and his longtime friend and Executive Chef Andrew Bachelier opened hit woodfire-based restaurant Campfire. The duo followed up their debut restaurant with the 2018 opening of Jeune et Jolie, a contemporary French-style bistro that last year was one of eight San Diego eateries awarded a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition.

"Andrew has been a friend and colleague for nearly five years now," continued Rescik. "I met him in October of 2015, and less than a week later we had agreed to open up Campfire together. I have to say, that was one hell of a good decision. Both Campfire and Jeune et Jolie wouldn’t be what they are, they truly wouldn’t exist, without him. He has left an indelible imprint on us and these restaurants, and leaves behind a legacy that will be long-lasting and felt for years to come."

Prior to opening Campfire, Bachelier worked for Tracy Borkum's San Diego-based Urban Kitchen Group for more than 6 years. He also worked for San Diego's sole Michelin star restaurant The Addision at The Grand Del Mar for 4 years. Bachelier's choice to step down from his roles at his two Carlsbad restaurants was precipated by a desire to spend more time with his fiance and three children. 

"As a chef, it’s a constant struggle to find that work-life balance," Bachelier said in a statement. "I have had the opportunity in the last four months to view the world through the innocent lens of my children. I know what it takes to be a great leader and chef - I can tell you it’s extremely difficult but rewarding. However, I’ve found a much clearer perspective on what it takes to be a great and present father, while still providing (for them).  Leaving both restaurants is the hardest decision I've ever made and my heart will forever carry them both. They are also my family away from home. It’s been the most amazing five years of my life and career, and I can’t thank John enough. He has definitely given me the right tools and resources for my next step in life and my career."

Taking over as Executive Chef of Jeune et Jolie is Eric Bost, a Culinary Institute of America and business school grad that has worked his way through some of the world’s best restaurants, including Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and Les Ambassadeurs at the Hôtel de Crillon. Eric was Chef de Cuisine at Restaurant Guy Savoy in Las Vegas when they received 2 Michelin Stars in 2008, and was soon afterwards appointed Executive Chef, maintaining their prestigious rating and garnering numerous accolades along the way. In 2016, Eric became immersed in Los Angeles’s culinary landscape as executive chef of Los Angeles’ beloved République. In early 2019, Bost opened Melrose Avenue’s Auburn restaurant as Chef-Owner, but he permanently closed his restaurant in April 2020.