about us

A Beloved Staple, A New Chapter

Opened in 2001 by Cedric and Desarae Fichepain, Le Voltaire quickly became a cornerstone of Omaha’s fine dining community. For two decades, it has been the city's premier destination for authentic French cuisine and exceptional wine.

In August 2021, Wilson and Tonya Calixte proudly took the helm as the new owners of this beloved establishment. Honoring the twenty-year legacy that made Le Voltaire famous, the Calixte family is thrilled to carry the torch forward—preserving the classic dishes you love while introducing exciting new flavors, vibrant cultural events, and the next generation of patrons to the journey.

Table set for dining with black lamps, wine glasses, cutlery, small plates, and a bottle with a yellow tag in a cozy restaurant.
Man wearing a black t-shirt and blue bandana leaning forward with a slight smile in an indoor setting with framed artwork and a red curtain.

From Port-au-Prince to the Plains

Born in a small town outside of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Chef Wilson’s culinary journey began when he moved to New York City at a young age. At 18 years old, he stepped into the restaurant industry as a dishwasher at a local Soul Food restaurant. Driven by an undeniable passion and work ethic, he was promoted to the cooking line in just three months.

Always seeking to elevate his craft, Chef Wilson transitioned into Fusion French cuisine before eventually owning and operating his own successful catering company in New York.

A Move Made for Love

Life took a beautiful turn when Chef Wilson began a three-year long-distance relationship with his now-wife, Tonya. In March 2010, he packed up his New York life and moved to Omaha.

After a month of "staging" at the prestigious V. Mertz, word of his talent spread. A fellow chef connected him to an opportunity as the sous chef right here at Le Voltaire. Chef Wilson poured his heart into the menu, and after three and a half years, he was rightfully promoted to Executive Chef.

Today, Chef Wilson and Tonya have been happily married for over 11 years and are the proud parents of Justin, Brendan, and Brooklyn. While they love vacationing in NYC to visit family, their true joy is found right here in Omaha—celebrating life, great food, and community with family and friends.

An Ambiance to Remember

Your dining experience at Le Voltaire is about more than just what is on the plate. We’ve designed our space to transport you. From the gorgeous interior touches inspired by the southern part of France to the breathtaking, full-scale floral design of our bar, every detail is crafted to enhance your evening.

Whether you are joining us for a Tuesday happy hour, a Saturday High Tea, or a private catered celebration, you are stepping into a space designed for making memories.

Who was François-Marie Arouet?

Our namesake, François-Marie Arouet (1694 – 1778)—better known by his pen name, Voltaire—was a legendary French Enlightenment writer, deist, and philosopher. Known for his sharp wit and bold critiques of society, Voltaire challenged the status quo of the French bourgeoisie, the aristocracy, and the monarchy. Just as Voltaire left an indelible mark on French culture and thought, we strive to leave an unforgettable mark on Omaha's culinary scene.

Black and white sketch portrait of Voltaire wearing 18th century clothing with curled hair, set against a background with bookshelves.