Le Petit Zinc

Charles Sorel

Born in Martinique and raised in Paris, Charles Sorel first came to the United States in 1991. After living in New York for several years, he grew to love it and chose to make it his home.

Earning his living in French restaurants, Charles became fascinated by photography. He began working as a photographer’s assistant learning more about this exciting yet highly competitive industry.

A naturally creative person with a passion for food, Charles found his way into the kitchen and opened his first restaurant. Fusing art and cuisine, Chez Oskar was critically acclaimed. Located in the Fort Greene section of Brooklyn, the restaurant grew to become the most popular restaurant in the area.

It was 1998 when Chez Oskar opened its’ doors. Fort Greene was a neighborhood in transition. The historic neighborhood was a background for many Spike Lee films, and was in the early stages of gentrification. Chez Oskar was the premiere place of what is now considered a destination for dining.

Chez Oskar did so well that Charles opened a second restaurant, Café Lafayette. Both Café Lafayette and Chez Oscar are serving classic French cuisine till today and both locales are celebrated for their menus.

With the dramatic changes that came with September 11th 2001, Charles left the US with his lovely wife, Karima, and their three children. The family relocated to Brazil for four years, continuing along a path of artistic entrepreneurship.

As of late, Charles and Karima have recently relocated back to the United States making their home in her hometown of Detroit. The Sorels were excited about the opportunity to serve classic French cuisine in Detroit, a city that is experiencing a redefining moment in its history.

It is here in Detroit where Charles and Karima have opened the latest Francophile restaurant, Le Petit Zinc. Serving classic dishes in a unique setting, Charles is certain that the venture will be a success, as Detroit is in its own transition much like Fort Greene, years ago.