Périgueux’s Local 90: A Pioneer Shifts Focus to Wellness and Nomadic Cuisine
For nearly a decade, Local 90 in Périgueux, France, has been a cornerstone of the Saint-Martin district, known for introducing the brunch culture to the city. Now, founder Hélène Dufraisse is preparing to close the restaurant, not due to financial hardship, but to pursue a new chapter centered around holistic wellness and a nomadic culinary lifestyle.
From Brunch Pioneer to Wellness Entrepreneur
Hélène Dufraisse launched Local 90 as a café/tea room ten years ago. It quickly evolved into a multi-faceted space – a café-restaurant, a pop-up shop, and a hub for wellbeing workshops and personal development. Dufraisse describes the business as one that “has difficulty fitting into a box,” a quality that resonated with its diverse clientele.
The decision to close isn’t driven by external pressures like inflation. “Everything is fine, I just have other dreams,” Dufraisse explains. She’s planning to transition into a micro-enterprise as a private chef specializing in vegetarian cuisine, combining her culinary skills with her training in yoga and Ayurvedic medicine from the French Institute of Yoga and Ayurveda.
The Rise of Holistic Lifestyle Businesses
Dufraisse’s shift reflects a growing trend: entrepreneurs integrating wellness practices into their business models. This isn’t simply about offering yoga classes alongside a coffee shop; it’s about creating a cohesive experience that addresses multiple aspects of wellbeing – nutrition, physical activity, and mental health.
This trend is fueled by increasing consumer demand for holistic health solutions. People are seeking preventative care and lifestyle changes that promote overall wellbeing, rather than solely focusing on treating illness. The global wellness market is estimated to be worth over $7 trillion, demonstrating the significant economic opportunity in this space.
The Appeal of the Nomadic Entrepreneur
The desire for a more flexible and location-independent lifestyle is similarly a key driver behind Dufraisse’s decision. The rise of remote function and digital nomadism has inspired many to seek careers that allow them to travel and work from anywhere.
This trend is particularly appealing to entrepreneurs who seek to avoid the constraints of a traditional brick-and-mortar business. A mobile business model allows for lower overhead costs, greater flexibility, and the opportunity to reach a wider audience.
Ayurveda and the Future of Food
Dufraisse’s background in Ayurveda is central to her future plans. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the importance of diet in maintaining health and balance.
Integrating Ayurvedic principles into her culinary offerings will likely involve creating personalized meal plans based on individual body types (doshas) and using ingredients that promote specific health benefits. This approach aligns with the growing interest in personalized nutrition and functional foods.
What’s Next for Local 90?
While Local 90 will remain open until June, Dufraisse is already laying the groundwork for her new venture. She emphasizes that “everything is still possible, at any age,” embodying a spirit of reinvention and lifelong learning.
FAQ
Q: Why is Local 90 closing?
A: Hélène Dufraisse is closing Local 90 to pursue a new career as a nomadic vegetarian chef and wellness consultant.
Q: What will Hélène Dufraisse do next?
A: She plans to launch a micro-enterprise offering private chef services, nutritional advice, and Ayurvedic massages.
Q: Is the closure due to financial difficulties?
A: No, Dufraisse states that the decision is based on her desire to pursue other dreams and a more flexible lifestyle.
Q: What is Ayurveda?
A: Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that focuses on establishing balance between the body and mind, often through diet and lifestyle practices.
Did you know? The wellness industry is experiencing significant growth, with consumers increasingly prioritizing holistic health solutions.
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences with local businesses that have successfully integrated wellness into their offerings in the comments below.
