Where Classic Meets Culinary Adventure
In a world filled with high-style fusion dining, food trucks, and chef challenges, sometimes all you crave is the comfort of a classic dish that transports you to happier times while still offering a dash of excitement. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Caffé Rel, a charming bistro in the heart of Hendersonville, NC.
At Caffé Rel, we’ve been defying convention for over two decades.
Caffe REL's original location in Franklin saw so much success despite lacking a waiting area and reservations that when we moved to Hendersonville we decided to add reservations so everyone can enjoy the culinary experience of Caffe REL.
Picture a thyme-rich blue crab bisque, a symphony of flavors with shallots, garlic, and leeks generously enriched with butter and cream. Or imagine mac and cheese elevated to new heights with a nutty Gruyère sauce and the subtle rosemary infusion. Homemade crisp potato chips and a refreshing cucumber-mint yogurt dipping sauce for lunch accompany our standout lamb burger.
Chef Long’s culinary journey began with Swiss Chef Otto Indemauer, who nurtured his talents and recommended him for prestigious culinary programs. But the heart of his culinary inspiration came from his Belgian grandmother’s kitchen, where he learned that time and love are the secret ingredients to exquisite meals.
While Caffe Rel ownership has changed, the restaurant has retained the quality and traditions Chef Long created when the doors first opened in 2003, sticking to the original motto, “It’s About the Food.” Chef Long was a saucier extraordinaire, and he always insisted on the finesse of good sauces, emphasizing the use of fresh cream and butter while keeping sugar at bay, a standard we continue to exemplify today.
Our menu is specifically curated to encompass Long’s haute cuisine background while also being affordable. We believe a bistro should cater to all budgets without compromising taste. Each dish is prepared a la minute, ensuring freshness and flavor in every bite.
But the food completes the narrative, leaving a lasting impression on your senses.
Caffé Rel is more than just a dining experience; it’s an unexpected gem tucked away in an unusual location, serving up French classics with a touch of magic. We welcome you to join us for lunch and dinner and experience the unforgettable taste of Caffé Rel.
Don’t leave without trying our legendary chocolate cake, a sweet ending to your unforgettable meal at Caffé Rel. Discover the charm of Caffé Rel, where timeless flavors meet culinary innovation.