About Us
Bienvenue à Frenchy’s Hideout
Welcome to Frenchy’s Hideout, where Parisian elegance meets San Diego's vibrant taste for great food, wine, and unforgettable experiences. Treat yourself to a carefully curated selection of exquisite wines and authentic French cuisine, designed to create a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you're here for a cozy dinner, a celebratory evening, or just a great glass of wine, our inviting atmosphere and passionate team are dedicated to making every visit special.
Our menu blends approachable elegance with the rich traditions of French cuisine, offering both regular dinner service and immersive coursed tasting menus. Each dish is carefully crafted and paired with wines that tell a story.
Join us for our weekly wine dinners, where we explore unique wineries and pair them with delectable dishes, all led by Owner/Sommelier Michael Simpson.
Whether it’s famous wineries or hidden gems, we’ll take you on a gastronomical journey like no other.
BON APPETIT!
Our Story
Owner Michael Simpson’s journey has always been fueled by his passion for bringing people together through exceptional food and wine. After years of refining his craft in some of the most dynamic culinary scenes, he’s created a space that’s as welcoming as it is exclusive, nestled in the heart of Hillcrest.
At Frenchy’s Hideout, you’ll find an intimate bistro that offers a dining experience beyond the ordinary—where French flavors meet California’s culinary flair.
While you can always enjoy a relaxed sit-down dinner, the real highlight here is the prix-fixe tasting menus, each curated with carefully selected wines to elevate every bite.
Michael has surrounded himself with a team of culinary artists and hospitality experts who share his unwavering commitment to delivering the best.
Michael Simpson
Founder ✧ Owner ✧ Sommelier
Michael was born and raised in Paris, France. What started out as a quick way to make money during high school and during college has turned into a passion for food and wine. Michael has worked all facets of the restaurant industry, from fast casual to fine dining.
After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality in Paris in 2003, Michael moved to San Diego where he gained an Associate’s Degree in Business and Marketing. Michael has worked as a General Manager and Sommelier for The French Gourmet, Smoking Goat, St Tropez Restaurants, Croce’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar, the Rise and Shine Restaurant Group, and Barrio Star.
Michael joined the Barrio Star team as the General Manager in 2018 until the opening of his own restaurant Frenchy's Hideout.
Michael describes himself as a humble individual. “Living in San Diego is like winning the lottery,” is what he told us. As a food and beverage enthusiast who lives life to the fullest, he says he tries to give 120% at work and at home. Keeping a good work/life balance always comes first. Michael says that he could not have achieved his goals without the support and love of his wife Paola.
He believes that the success of a restaurant comes from its employees, and a hands-on management approach.
When he is not at work, Michael loves traveling, cooking, teaching wine classes, playing the violin and spending time with his wife and dog Mia.