Mid City’s former MoPho space has officially come back to life. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, husband and wife hospitality veterans Chris and Bonnie Borges opened Charmant at 514 City Park Avenue, transforming the well-known corner building into a modern European bistro with a distinctly New Orleans spirit. The pair, both longtime figures in the city’s restaurant and wine world, describe the new venture as a neighborhood driven restaurant that shifts its energy from daytime ease to nighttime buzz.
Chris Borges, who serves as executive chef, said the goal was to create the kind of all-day spot they wished existed in their own neighborhood. “Charmant captures that rhythm, casual by day, buzzing by night, with the kind of energy that feels uniquely New Orleans,” he said. The name, meaning “lovely” or “captivating” in French, also nods to the Charmat sparkling wine process, a fitting homage to Bonnie Borges’ wine focused vision for the space.
Under Chef Borges, the menu blends classic European bistro fare with subtle New Orleans influences. Daytime diners will find dishes such as a Fried Brussels Sprouts Salad with lima beans, golden raisins, and cardamom yogurt, a Croque Madame layered with truffle salami and fontina, a Yeasted Belgian Waffle with apples and lemon ginger caramel, and a Wagyu Burger topped with cave aged cheddar, horseradish beer mustard, caramelized onions, pickled zucchini, and arugula on brioche. Evenings shift to shared plates, including Roasted Beets with horseradish panna cotta and Wagyu tallow, Scallop Crudo with apples and Tokyo turnips, Pork Osso Bucco Arancini with cherry pepper ragout, Vermont Goat Crottin served with duck confit and spiced pecans, and a rotating selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.
Wine takes center stage at Charmant, guided by General Manager and Sommelier Bonnie Borges. Her list emphasizes small producers, grower Champagnes, and bottles chosen specifically to complement the menu. Guests can choose from by the glass selections, flights, rotating reserve pours, and tableside service. “Wine should invite conversation, not intimidation,” she said. “My goal was to create a list that’s exciting but accessible.”
The cocktail program, helmed by Lead Bartender Kyle Godwin, previously of The Country Club and Brutto Americano, blends playful technique with classic foundations. Breakfast cocktails include Citrus and Silk, made with vodka, Amaretto, orange juice, and cream, and The Breton Sound, featuring blackberry and Earl Grey infused gin. Evening drinks range from Pear Pressure, a pear spiked twist on a spicy margarita with tequila, spiced pear puree, lime, triple sec, and a fall inspired syrup, to Duck, Duck, Vermouth, a duck fat washed bourbon cocktail with Campari and sweet vermouth. Spritzes, mocktails, and dessert drinks round out the lineup.
The Borges fully revamped the 2,880 square foot space, reimagining the former MoPho interior with a blend of Old-World craftsmanship and contemporary design. Blonde wood floors, hand laid tile inlays, copper accents, and a palette of soft blues and crisp whites give the restaurant a warm, coastal European feel while keeping the relaxed New Orleans atmosphere intact. A white quartz bar serves as the room’s focal point, and an outdoor patio expands the dining experience into an open-air setting.
Charmant is now open at 514 City Park Avenue, operating from 8 AM to 10 PM, Wednesday through Monday. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays. More information and reservations are available at http://www.charmantnola.com/
