Bidart: the Bar du Fronton changes owners

After ten years, Diane and Allan are handing over the keys to this iconic place for a new adventure at La Plancha d'Ilbarritz.

In the heart of Bidart, the Bar du Fronton (Bdf) is turning an important page in its history. After ten years of running this iconic venue, Diane and Allan are handing over the keys. A fully embraced professional transition: the passionate couple began a new adventure a year ago at La Plancha d'Ilbarritz, on the beach, facing the ocean.

The duo was already well-known to the people of Bidart for having run La Pizzéria. In 2014, they took over the Bar du Fronton, a business that matched their wishes with one idea in mind: to make it a lively, accessible, and welcoming place all year round.

At the time, the center of Bidart was still dominated by cars and was a timid place to visit. Opening year-round was a risky bet, but one that was met with flying colors. Thanks to a friendly atmosphere, simple and refined cuisine, and above all, the precious loyalty of both customers and staff, the Bdf quickly became a must-see. The transformation of the square and its pedestrianization, thanks to the impetus of the town hall, gave new impetus to their establishment. "We were instrumental in the transformation of the town center," summarizes Allan. The new owner remains discreet, but the roadmap is clear: maintain the same spirit, the soul of the place, while adding their own touch. Although the address changes hands, it nevertheless remains a landmark in the Bidart landscape.

Diane and Allan, for their part, have moved to a new neighborhood, and now they continue to write their professional stories by the ocean. For the past year, Ilbarritz, with its fine sandy beach, surfers, and beachgoers, has become their daily life.

By refocusing on a single establishment, the couple is also seeking a balance in family life to spend more time with their teenagers.

A page is turning on Place Sauveur Atchoarena, but another continues, overlooking the ocean, rooted in the landscape of the Basque Coast and still with the same passion for the profession. "Bidart remains our home port," concludes Allan.