Daniel and Erica always dreamed of living in France. They first met during their college years—Erica was returning from visiting family in Nice, while Daniel had just completed his junior year abroad in Provence. Over the years, they frequently returned to France, building lasting friendships and deepening their connection to the country. Their travels gradually evolved into a shared passion for exploring the history and culture of different regions through their local cuisine.

The Gastronome Bordeaux is the culmination of their years of planning, perseverance, and love for French food, wine, and culture. It feels like home, welcoming guests to share in the rich culinary traditions of France.

Chef Daniel Bowers

Daniel, from Kansas City, discovered his love for France during a year in Toulon, cooking with locals. He later earned a Grand Diplôme de Patisserie from Le Cordon Bleu de Paris. His experience includes roles as an Executive Baker, Pastry Chef, Restaurant Co-Owner, Culinary Instructor, Investment Banker, Trade Advisor, and Executive Director of the French American Chamber of Commerce – Atlanta.

Erica Bowers, wine enthusiast

Erica, originally from suburban Chicago, spent her early years with her Italian immigrant grandparents, who expressed their love through sharing their native cuisine. This instilled in her a lifelong passion for exploring cultures and places through food. After graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Erica worked in the medical field before relocating to France. Eager to complement Dan’s culinary expertise and deepen her understanding of winemaking, she earned a diploma in wine-tasting expertise (Diplôme Universitaire d'Aptitude à la Dégustation, D.U.A.D.) from the University of Bordeaux in 2024.

Our Credo

“Food and drink are the ultimate expressions of our collective cultures and histories. What better way to learn about a people and a culture than to visit their markets, share their stories and share a meal, and what better city to do it in than Bordeaux! In the end, these experiences create a space for us to live longer, healthier, and richer lives. Please join us on this journey!”