MANHATTAN — Mon Dieu!
Celebrity chef Todd English's French bistro in Chelsea was shut down by the Health Department last week for a host of violations, just months after the much-hyped restaurant opened in the Limelight Marketplace.
According to an Oct. 16 inspection, the chic spot Chateau Cherbuliez, where English is a consulting chef, racked up 44 violation points for infractions ranging from "filth flies" to "contaminated" food.
Inspectors also found unrefrigerated food and ingredients not protected from contamination, as well as the kitchen lacking a hand-washing facility, according to the inspection report. Five of the six violations found by inspectors were deemed "critical," the DOH noted.
The eatery, which opened in July, replaced the restaurant Crossbar inside the retail complex at 47 W. 20th St., and features French fare, fine wine and a raw bar.
The restaurant touted such exclusive features as a private dining room "hidden" behind a "secret" door and a members-only dining room.
English was reportedly not the only big name behind the French spot, as party-throwing twins Daniel and Derek Koch also had a hand in the restaurant. The eatery also served a rotating menu of desserts by renowned French pastry chef François Payard.
Chateau Cherbuliez did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and it was unclear when the restaurant could reopen.
