After growing up in Huger, SC near Mt. Pleasant, Fernando Washington played professional football for the Frankfurt Galaxy, the World League of America in Germany for two years. It was one of two original NFL Europe teams.
He was a defensive end who moved to Aiken two years ago and has transitioned to a business owner and chef. It might seem like an unusual fit, but preparation and cooking come as naturally to Washington as sacking the quarterback.
“I grew up in a large family of good cooks starting with my grandmother and then my mom and dad,” said owner, Fernando Washington.
That experience inspired him. His new venture, Bistro 41, will soon open its doors and kitchen to serve up a combination of Caribbean-inspired dishes and soul food.
Washington will be working alongside his dad, Joe, who has spent 20 years in the restaurant and catering business. Aside from Caribbean dishes, the menu will include oxtails and some soul food staples like fried chicken and fish and mac n’ cheese.
Their new place will be at 1799 Edgefield Road, Suite B in North Augusta, the former site of Pinckney’s Home Cooking.
Last year, ABD reported on the opening of Bistro 55 in North Augusta. There is no connection to Bistro 41, but there is significance to the name of the new eatery and the number.
“I grew up on Hwy 41 near Mt. Pleasant. I played football at Cainhoy High School. When I played in college at East Tennessee State University, my number was 41. It seemed like a great choice for the new venture.”
While he is no longer playing football, he and his dad will be passing some plates of inspired food. The grand opening of Bistro 41 is August 17.
Editor’s Note:
Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means! If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
