Who We Are

Founded in 1976, La Chaumiere was created by Gerard Pain, a French native who moved to D.C. in the early 60’s.  Using his own recipes, he was able to achieve his desire to recreate authentic French country cuisine in his adopted hometown.  

Over 45 years later, La Chaumiere remains in the hands of French native Gil Fornaris and remains rooted in the traditions, recipes, and hospitality that have made it a stalwart of the Washington DC dining scene.  

Every ingredient is crafted by hand in the kitchen, including the Boudin Blanc, the County Style Pate, and our house specialty, Quenelle de Brochet Sauce Homard (Pike Dumplings with Lobster Sauce).  The extensive wine list focuses on France’s wine region with Bordeaux taking the center stage.  

As La Chaumiere heads towards its 50th Anniversary “cinquantième anniversaire”, we look forward to serving the finest French cuisine in the city for the next 50 years.