Mimi's Cafe Commemorates 35th Anniversary By Saying "Merci" While Celebrating Bastille Day

IRVINE, Calif., June 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thirty-five years ago, influenced by his time spent in France during World War II, American Airman Arthur J. Simms opened the first Mimi's Cafe® in Anaheim, Calif. This charming, French-inspired neighborhood bistro was named after a captivating mademoiselle he met named Mimi and became a destination for the wonderful flavors, wines and unmistakable ambience of Paris. The menu featured classic bistro favorites like French Onion Soup and Pain Perdu in addition to world-class baked goods including Mimi's Cafe's signature freshly baked muffins. It quickly became a popular place for casual get-togethers and celebratory moments with family and friends that has grown to 145 restaurants in the U.S.

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This year, Mimi's Cafe is celebrating its 35^th anniversary by saying merci to its loyal guests in a variety of exciting ways, culminating with a Bastille Day celebration on Sunday, July 14, 2013. Beginning on Bastille Day, Mimi's Cafe offers guests the opportunity to win an assortment of prizes, including a trip to California's world famous wine region Napa Valley, in the "Merci from Mimi's™" promotion.

Five of the classic tastes that have endured the test of time are being offered at the original 1978 price on Bastille Day, July 14. These heritage items from the original menu include:

• Bowl of French Onion Soup – 1978 price: $2.25
• Pain Perdu – 1978 price: $4.25
• Individual Classic Muffins – 1978 price: $.45
• French Dip Sandwich – 1978 price: $4.10
• Eggs Benedict – 1978 price: $3.95

Bastille Day is the French national holiday commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789, which marked the beginning of the French Revolution. In keeping with Mimi's Cafe's French roots, guests are invited to join the celebration on Bastille Day by "storming" Mimi's to enjoy the five heritage items at special 1978 anniversary pricing to honor guests for patronizing Mimi's over the years.

Another way Mimi's Cafe says merci to its guests is the "Merci from Mimi's" promotion. Beginning Bastille Day, a game piece* will be given to all lunch and dinner guests which will be opened by a Mimi's manager on their next visit to reveal their instant win prize. Prizes include $10,000 cash, a trip for two to Napa Valley, an in-home, customized dinner prepared and hosted by Mimi's Cafe Executive Chef Katie Sutton, 35 $100 Mimi's gift cards, food and discount prizes.

*Restrictions apply. Official Rules available on July 14, 2013 in-restaurant and at www.mimiscafe.com.

ABOUT MIMI'S CAFE
Founded by Arthur Simms, who was stationed in France during World War II, Mimi's Cafe is a neighborhood bistro inspired by the wonderful flavors, wines and unmistakable ambience of Paris, and named after a captivating mademoiselle he met named Mimi. In 1978, he opened the first Mimi's Cafe inspired by his memories of Mimi and passion for good food, wine and camaraderie that he remembered so fondly. Mimi's Cafe is owned by Le Duff America, Inc. and has 145 locations in 24 states. More info at www.MimisCafe.com.

SOURCE Mimi's Cafe