Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurent Vrignaud
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The story of MOULIN is deeply personal to me—it’s the embodiment of my love for France and my journey as an immigrant. I came to California at 18, drawn by the surf and the promise of adventure. While I quickly embraced the vibrant lifestyle here, my heart never left France. I grew up in Montmartre, surrounded by the charm of bustling markets, quaint bistros, and the aroma of fresh-baked bread. Those memories stayed with me.
After three decades in the action sports industry, I realized I had an opportunity to share something truly meaningful to me—French culture, not just as food but as an experience. I wanted to recreate the feeling of stepping into a Parisian café, where the atmosphere is as important as the meal itself. In 2014, I opened the first MOULIN in Newport Beach with that vision in mind.
Every detail at MOULIN, from the imported vintage furniture to the authentic recipes, reflects my commitment to giving people a genuine taste of France. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a place where memories are made, just like the ones I carry from my childhood.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road—it rarely is when you’re building something from the ground up. One of the biggest challenges was stepping into an entirely new industry without formal training. Being self-taught meant a lot of trial and error, learning on the job, and long hours figuring out how to execute my vision.
Finding the right team was another hurdle. MOULIN is built on a love for authentic French culture, and it was crucial to find people who shared that passion. The diversity in our team—different ages, backgrounds, and skill sets—didn’t come easily, but it has been one of our greatest strengths.
Logistics were also tricky, especially during our expansions. Managing multiple locations while ensuring each stayed true to the brand required a level of attention and adaptability that was hard to maintain.
But every struggle has been worth it. Overcoming these challenges has made MOULIN what it is today: a celebration of French culture that I’m incredibly proud to share.
We’ve been impressed with MOULIN, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
MOULIN is more than just a bakery or café—it’s a slice of France on the California coast. We specialize in authentic French pastries, bread, and bistro fare, staying true to the traditions and techniques you’d find in Paris or a small village boulangerie.
What truly sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to authenticity and excellence. Laurent, our founder, sets the bar high, ensuring that every detail—from the quality of our ingredients to the atmosphere of our locations—captures the essence of French culture. Whether it’s the buttery flakiness of a croissant or the rustic charm of our bistro dishes, every product reflects our passion for bringing genuine French flavors to life.
We are known for our artisanal approach. Our team of bakers and chefs upholds the same high standards you’d expect in France. This focus on authenticity and craftsmanship keeps our customers coming back for more.
Brand-wise, what we’re most proud of is how we’ve been able to create an experience that feels like a journey to France. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the ambiance, the warm service, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into a bustling Parisian café.
We want readers to know that MOULIN isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to immerse yourself in French culture. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee, a leisurely lunch, or a special event, you’ll leave with a little taste of France and a lot of heart.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
For me, it’s not really about luck—it’s about recognizing opportunities, betting on them, and taking calculated risks. Building MOULIN wasn’t a stroke of good fortune; it was a series of decisions driven by passion and a willingness to take risks when the right opportunities
Pricing:
- Jambon Fromage Baguette Sandwich $14
- Quiche Lorraine $14
- Croque Madame $15
- Quiche Veggie $14
- Butter Croissant $4.50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://MOULIN.COM
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moulin/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moulinbistro/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/moulin-newport-beach
