Written by Isabella Aranda Garcia
What is the first thing you do when you open for the day?
In season we check on our garden outside of La Bastide; we grow herbs, flowers and all sorts of peppers for the restaurant.
What’s something you do that seems small but makes a huge difference?
Treat every guest like family. We’ve spent many years serving and meeting our customers and we take no relationship for granted. Each guest is going to be treated like a friend, and we’re always grateful to see them coming back.
What was your “I made it” moment?
I’d have to say the obtention of our first Michelin star. Such pride and joy to be able to achieve this in only nine months of opening the restaurant, definitely a dream come true.
Describe your business in three words.
Refined. Intentional. Creative.
What’s your dream customer reaction?
Having a customer resonate with the dishes is always so special. Being able to connect with them and create new memories for them is something we strive for.
What’s the one thing your business couldn’t function without?
Our incredible team—the suppliers that are working hard to provide us with the most delicious and qualitative products. And our guests, of course—they give us the strength to push ourselves every day.
What’s one thing people often say when they first walk in?
Guests often comment on how beautiful the space is when they first walk into La Bastide, the displayed wine cellar and open view of the garden is very special.
What is something you wish more people knew about you and/or your business?
La Bastide takes its name from “Provencal country house,” and this is the atmosphere we are creating here. We want our guests to feel like they are vacationing, somewhere in the south of France.
Address: 721 Titicus Rd, North Salem, NY 10560
Phone number: (914) 485-1518
Website: labastidebyac.com
This article was published in the January/February 2026 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.
To view all 2026 Connect to the Best winners, click here.
Isabella Aranda is a designer, writer and social media specialist with an M.A. in emerging media from the New Media Institute at the Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communication. Driven by curiosity and inspired by timeless modern design, she blends creativity and strategy to craft compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences.
Her expertise spans digital marketing, content creation and UX design, with notable achievements such as co-creating the Georgia On Your Mind podcast and leading digital campaigns that significantly boosted engagement. A Venezuelan immigrant, Isabella brings a multicultural perspective to her work, enhancing her ability to connect with and inspire others.
