The Downtowners – Thierry Beaud, Restaurant Proprietor
May 27th, 2025
Meet acclaimed restaurateur Thierry Beaud, who opened PISTACHE French Bistro on Clematis Street in Downtown West Palm Beach in 2008. Beaud was born and raised in Bordeaux, France and has both owned and managed several legendary eateries in South Florida. He
has two adult children — daughter Sophie, who followed in his footsteps to work in the hospitality industry, and son Remi, who recently graduated from Florida State University and shares the same birthday with Beaud.
How did you end up in Downtown West Palm Beach?
I’ve worked all over South Florida, and my career path brought me to Palm Beach County. I always had the dream to open a restaurant influenced by my French upbringing. When the opportunity presented itself in Downtown West Palm Beach along the beautiful Intracoastal,
I could see that dream coming to life, and in 2008, PISTACHE French Bistro was born.
What do you like most about being in Downtown West Palm Beach?
It’s hard to narrow it down to one thing I like most. The Downtown area is a growing
neighborhood, pedestrian-friendly, with a strong community feel. Every year is marked with wonderful events that bring people from
near and far to Downtown West Palm Beach. Some of my favorite events include the West Palm Beach GreenMarket, the Palm Beach International Boat Show and 4th on Flagler. Being a part of that, year after year makes Downtown West Palm Beach a very special place to work and play.
What do you do for fun in Downtown West Palm Beach?
Some of my favorite things to do around Downtown West Palm Beach include dining with friends — there are so many great restaurants within just a few blocks of each other — as well as bike-riding along the waterfront, seeing a live show at Palm Beach Dramaworks and visiting local art galleries. We have so many cultural, artistic and entertainment options within walking distance here.
How was Downtown West Palm Beach evolved since you’ve been here?
Downtown West Palm Beach has always felt like a special place to me. It’s the proximity to the water, community events and various activities that gave Downtown West Palm Beach its unique identity. I have been here in the Downtown District for more than 20 years and the evolution has been remarkable. People now work just steps from where they live. There are services and restaurants and shopping to support a growing, lively population. And Brightline has opened up Downtown West Palm Beach to so many more people from around the region, making our special area a true destination. This has brought new customers to our restaurant, and all of the surrounding businesses, and I believe this trend will continue.