Andrew and Maureen Weissman, owners of the now-closed restaurant Le Reve, talk to longtime supporters at the restaurant's closing party on Sunday.

The  reception for friends  and supporters of Le Rêve on Sunday evening was a time to say goodbye. The restaurant on Pecan Street is closing, after 11 years, leaving its devotees feeling bereft, but optimistic for chef Andrew Weissman and his wife Maureen. New ventures are already open at the Pearl Brewery, and more are promised.

At the party, the wine flowed; of course there was food. We mingled for a while, remembering our traditional day-after-Christmas dinners with friends,  birthdays and anniversaries, the occasional wine dinner and just evenings out.

Le Rêve wasn’t the only fine dining restaurant in town where we knew we’d get a well thought-out meal, creative dishes that were impeccably prepared and flawlessly presented.  But, the intimate atmosphere was also a factor that helped keep Le Rêve on our short list for noteworthy occasions.

Musicians played out on the sidewalk overlooking the San Antonio River downtown. Inside, guests at restaurant Le Reve's closing party offered toasts and memories of the restaurant and its successful 11-year run in San Antonio.

Weissman and his wife greeted guests at the casual event, many of whom had been supporters from the beginning. Restaurateurs Blanca Aldaco and Diana Barrios Treviño came to wish the couple well. Weissman’s mother, Stevie Weissman chatted with friends, saying while she was sorry about Le Rêve closing, she looked forward to what was ahead.

Weissman will now be concentrating on honing food and service at his newest restaurant, Il Sogno,  and the new location of his seafood restaurant, Sandbar, at the Pearl, as well as spending more time with his family.  But, he also plans more restaurants to come, both at the Pearl and in other areas of the city.