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b Bistro
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
1501 Bolton StBaltimore, MD 21217
Neighborhoods: Bolton Hill, Northwest Baltimore
(410) 383-8600
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 5 pm - 10 pm
Sun 10 am - 2 pm
Sun 5 pm - 9 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Upscale, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Matthew V. said: ""...where everybody know your name". Bistro Rx seems to be the Patterson Park version of Cheers. PP is a diverse neighborhood and this is a bar / restaurant for the yuppie crowd. If your new to the area, come here to meet great…" read more »
65 reviews for b Bistro
Review Highlights
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"Crispy pork belly fried egg, Enrique's tomatillo sauce..." In 2 reviews -
"Finished it with an almond cake with cardamon ice cream." In 7 reviews -
"The food is very good as well, Bistro American, a good..." In 3 reviews
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65 reviews in English
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Review from Ada G.
3/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
We went here during restaurant week with some friends. The place was packed! You definitely want to make reservations for weekends!
The place has a really nice unpretentious bistro feel. Their wine list is very nice and the servers were extremely knowledgeable and friendly.
I had the pork belly appetizer and the mussels for my entree. Both were prepared perfectly. The portions are a little small, but still very filling and satisfying. We sampled dishes from everyone at the table and all melted in your mouth.
I made the mistake of ordering a dessert other than the chocolate pot de creme. But my husband was kind enough to share a bite of the goodness with me. I highly recommend it!
I would not bring my child here. The place can get loud when it's full and the dishes all have unique ingredients that may be too much for kids that prefer plain jane chicken tenders, pizza, etc.
I can't wait to go back here for a date night and try this place again! I highly recommend B Bistro!!! -
Review from Michele L.
Charlotte, NC
5/9/2012
Lived in the Bolton Hill neighborhood a long time, but never had the chance to visit this little bistro. Was always packed with people, so I figured it must have been good. Moved away three years ago and recently went back to visit friends. Decided to meet them there for brunch this past weekend, so we made reservations and went.
The reservations were for the very start of brunch - 10AM on a Sunday. We got in and got seated and for perhaps 30 minutes we were only one table of three occupied. They seated us, crowded around a mean little table in the corner, which we had to navigate around a huge a/c vent hole in the floor, trying not to break a leg. The wait service was dim or hung over or simply not there. Tables came in behind us, ordered and left before we even got our drink service.
Two of us ordered the crepes and while the ingredients were tasty, they were not crepes. More of a doughy slim pancake. The wild forest mushrooms supposed to be in the crepes were also not wild forest mushrooms. A side of french fries took over most of the plate and they were mediocre at best. Appeared to be a copycat version of the rosemary frites at Brewer's Art but not as tasty.
The service was so slow that one of our party had to have her brunch wrapped for takeout as it was now 45 minutes into waiting for our food and she was on her way to work.
The crowded table and loud noise generated in part by the customers, part by the AC/DC music in the background really did nothing to make this place enjoyable. Not a good deal for my money, wish I had visited earlier and crossed this one off my list of local eats to try when I lived in town. -
Review from Chris C.
Catonsville, MD
3/14/2012
dined on 3/3/12
We had been putting this place off for a while for no real good reason other than it being off the beaten path (even though I used to go to elementary school nearby and shop at this place when it was a general store in the 70's) and after hearing another personal recommendation decided to finally go for it.
We had an awesome dinner with solid, nice, efficient service! I would prefer to lower by a half a star because the place is so tight/ crowded, but at the end of the night I just felt like we had such a great time I needed to rank up instead of down.
We started off with the crispy pork belly - AMAZING! very flavorful and not greasy at all (yes, I know I am not eating a low fat food here, but was expecting a wet plate at the finish). The portion was huge and simply fantastic.
For dinner I had 2 small plates: the Roseda Farms Beef tartare appetizer (a special) and the forest mushroom appetizer; my wife had the duck ravioli. Wow, wow, wow - everything was amazing, the only true complaint was that the tartare was so huge I could not finish it - it did however make for 2 awesome sliders the next day (charred in a caste iron skillet, yum).
A chocolate coconut cake was well above average (I am pretty picky - have not had but 1 awesome dessert in the past 6 months) and our wine with dinner was well priced and delicious.
The place is tight, especially on a Saturday night - if not for the pleasant conversation with the next table I may have dropped a star too, but overall a much better experience than I had hoped (and I had I high hopes). We will definitely be back soon! -
Review from M. V.
Baltimore, MD
5/18/2012
My family and I went to b for brunch on Mother's Day. The host was genuinely nice, and was eager to seat our party of 7 fifteen minutes early. That's where the plesantries stop. The servers were rude and condescending. One chewed gum obnoxiously, and when I politely asked for a refill on my water which was empty for way too long, she avoided eye contact, kept moving, and bluntly stated, "I have to get more." The place isn't very big, and our party was about 5 feet from the entrance, making us feel awkward as the servers bumped my chair several times to get to the tables behind me (I'm not holding this against them since they didn't design the place, but it takes away from the atmosphere).
We waited a long time for our food--I found this odd because brunch food doesn't take a long time to prepare. When it finally arrived, everyone but me received their order. We waited and waited, and finally, my father-in-law asked what was going on. The gum-chewing server (who was not our primary server) actually grew concerned, and found out that they made the wrong thing for me in the kitchen, and that they were working on making the correct order. Why wouuldn't they just admit this up-front so that I could have told my party not to wait and have their food grow cold? My mother's Belfian waffle looked burnt, and she did not enjoy it. The Italian that wine I had was quite bland. The food was okay, but not worth the wait nor the hassle. Nothing spectacular.
After the kitchen goofed up, no one even acknowledged this--not when it happend or afterwards. There was a weak apology from our actual server, and no additional offers at the other end. I bet my server would have acted differently if she knew I was paying the full bill. My $160+ could have been better spent elsewhere. -
Review from Kara W.
3/12/2012
I've been waiting for a long time to try this place. But, reservations are recommended, and I am more of a drop-in diner. On a whim, I saw via OpenTable that there was room for 2 available for the time that it would take for me to make the drive over. I;m so glad that I did.
I don't think that I can say enough good things about this restaurant. It's small and cozy. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive. The menu is seasonal and local, so the offerings change from time to time. So, don't be surprised if you receive a paper menu.
The menu is small, but everything sounded so good that it was difficult to make a decision. I ended up ordering the cod fritters, roasted pears, and roasted beet salad. For dessert, I ordered a trio of citrus sorbets with a small shortbread cookie on the side. I was pleased with each selection.
I will definitely be back before the season changes to try a few things that I passed over. Until then, I'll be counting the minutes... -
Review from Rebecca H.
Baltimore, MD
3/14/2012
I wanted to try b Bistro for a while while I was living in Bolton Hill and finally decided to go for restaurant week. Mainly because this is a pricey place to eat and it's actually a good deal for restaurant week, unlike most places. I was very excited and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
I would say, when I went, it was an older crowd. So your not exactly going to b for the atmosphere. But don't let that stop you if you are a foodie like me. It was one of the best meals I'd had in a LONG time. I started of with a delicious, creamy, sweet pumpkin/squash soup as my appetizer, which was filling in itself. For an entree I got the Roasted Forest Mushrooms with gnocchi which was absolutely amazing. If you like mushrooms you should get this dish. Dessert was also amazing, and I'm THE dessert girl. I live for dessert. Tangerine Creme Brulee and a Chocolate Torte? How could you go wrong?
The staff was delightful and friendly. If I could afford to be a regular, I would be! Until the next restaraunt week... -
Review from Cindy L.
New York, NY
2/23/2012
Call me pedestrian. Call me uncultured. I just don't get the hype.
I came here at the recommendation of coworker when I was visiting Baltimore. I have to say, the decor and neighborhood was very quaint. And don't get me wrong, I see this as a good thing. So, dinner was starting out to be a promising one.
Upon walking in, our group was seated by the window and given very decorative menu sheet (yes, you read right, sheet, meaning it was printed on thick cream colored paper and had elaborate cursive typeface.) This is important to note- if you haven't already noticed or looked at Yelp's classifcation- the prices at this place are not for the faint hearted. Seriously, I wouldn't recommend this place for a first date unless you really want to date this girl by impressing her on how generous you are (note: I'm just kidding, it's not that bad but just forewarning you is all).
Anyways, I ordered a glass of red wine, the local greens salad and their special of the night- a burger. I know, you're probably like, a burger?? Well, in my defense, if you screw up a burger at a joint like this, you need to be put out of business. So, I'm glad to report, they did not screw it up- it was actually very good. Just writing about it now brings back happy memories. Mmm, burger.....sorry, I digress. So, yes, the burger is highly recommended. The salad (or local greens, as they call it), what the heck were they thinking!?!? The cheese was very saltly and came in a block. the greens were nothing extraordinary. And the dressing was some sort of tangy, sweet concoction that was already mixed in. I'm not saying it was the worst salad in the world but it was definitely overpriced for something that tasted pretty awful.
For dessert, we got the sorbet trio. Very yummy and refreshing. Just the perfect way to end a dinner. So, all in all, a good experience. Not sure if I would come back again, but if I do, you can be sure that I will NOT be ordering the salad. -
Review from Rob N.
11/6/2011 2 Check-ins Here
We brought our band to the bustling b Bistro for a blowout brunch. Would it be bodacious or bogus?
The b in Bolton was busy, but breezily boisterous. We were brought betimes beverages with which to beset our brewing thirst, and began to browse the burgeoning bill of fare.
We benefited from the befitting arrival of savory starter bites. Beautiful balls of bacalao, braised and bronzed belly of pig, and bonny bricks of pate with perfect pickles.
With no further brouhaha, a bursting board of bliss-enducing bowls was brought before our buoyant body. We broke bread with aplomb as we breakfasted upon our bountiful banquet. Brilliant Benedicts, crepes beyond belief, billowy berms of berry-bedecked waffles.
Believe it, or belie the bona-fides, b Bistro is boss - bad to the bone. -
Review from Derek w.
11/29/2011
This charming spot is nestled on a quiet street corner in one of Baltimore's most quaint and picturesque neighborhoods, Bolton Hill. It's been on my must-try list since it first opened, and being walking distance from my Dad's house only adds to its draw.
The interior boasts very high ceilings and a industrial-chic ambiance: I was especially drawn to the locally-inspired photos on the walls. An aura of warmth pervaded the compact dining room, as most people either knew each other or seemed to wish they did. Factor in the sidewalk dining option and you've got an irresistible milieu for a fine New American feast.
I couldn't decide on just one thing on the alluring, busy menu, although there really was no need - the best meals have more and smaller plates anyway.
I began with a deliciously light red butter lettuce salad, a perfect warm up to richer courses to follow. The delicate lettuce must have been picked earlier in the day. My Dad had a luscious salad of warm, horizontally-arrayed roasted beets atop a creamy local goat cheese. The perfect first course palate pleasers.
Next up was the caramelized pumpkin with mint, garlic and yogurt -- the cool, American autumn meets the sunny Mediterranean. I knew I could trust the treatment of one of my favorite foodstuffs, given how I adore the baby pumpkin appetizer served up at Baltimore's phenomenal Helmand, which is owned by the same creative, dynamic husband and wife team that owns B. The balance of tastes and perfect preparation of the pumpkin (wood-roasted, I'd guess) made this a memorable dish.
My final foray was into a daily special of homemade fennel sausage and braised cabbage. Baltimore's large German community (and my own German grandmother!) would certainly approve. The plump sausage was full of robust, aromatic flavor, and the cabbage was slow-cooked in a homey brew of cider, cinnamon and star anise (I had to ask).
When I return, perhaps I'll start with dessert. -
Review from Holly N.
Baltimore, MD
11/27/2011
Although the tarte au citron was delicious, the pumpkin ravioli was greasy and lacked flavor. Majorly underseasoned. I had to ask for salt to give it really any interest.
The salad had warm pear which was kinda odd to me and wilted the lettuce in an unappealing way.
I felt the restaurant had lovely atmosphere, but was overpriced. -
Review from Suzanne J.
Baltimore, MD
9/12/2011
We had a date night here on a warm evening during the great BGE debacle following Hurricane Irene and it was lovely! We opted for inside seating as it was a fairly humid night, but next time I'd love to sit outside on the corner and people watch in Bolton Hill.
He raved on and on about his fried green tomato with prosciutto appetizer and I enjoyed my heirloom tomato with mozzarella and balsamic salad, to start. He enjoyed his huge burger with taleggio and caramelized onions and a heaping pile of yummy fries.
Definitely a charming date spot, will have to go back again before it cools off for Fall. -
Review from Pinki P.
Beltsville, MD
2/20/2012 1 Check-in Here
My girlfriends and I went here in January during Baltimore Restaurant Week. It was a cute lovely place that gave off a really cozy feel to it. The service was good and the food was good, but not spectacular. I would stop by again if I'm in the area and undecided on what to eat, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it because the food was just average to good, at best.
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Review from Superman L.
Ellicott City, MD
9/22/2011
The restaurant is located on a cozy street, surprisingly since it's in the city. Almost like uptown Manhattan feel, imho. The atmosphere is great, dim lighting, busy but not crowded...very cozy. The food is excellent and they have decent wine menu.
Ordered:
Crispy pork belly fried egg, Enrique's tomatillo sauce: That was my favorite of 3-4 apps we ordered.
Roseda farm steak frites: Excellent, the fries where perfectly cooked.
On top of creative foods, the service was awesome both times. Pick a nice night and eat outside. -
Review from William K.
Roswell, GA
9/5/2011
If I could give 4.5 I would!
Service: Erin F. was great!!! Fun, funny, knowledgeable, adorable.
My son and I shared a Calamari Salad with heirlooms and watermelon, as well as a forest mushroom with polenta. Awesome. He had the sweetbreads and I the mussels with the curry / green chile... Both were delicious. For desert we split the Chocolat Pot de Creme... it was over the top. I can imagine a date with coffee and just splitting that desert... -
Review from Sambolina R.
Baltimore, MD
Updated - 10/19/2011
I am writing another review on b Bistro because I finally came here for dinner.
Came here with my mom. We walked in without a reservation and were seated immediately, though the place was crowded on a weeknight so I would suggest calling ahead of time.
We started by splitting a beet salad (delicious!), a small cheese sampler (more of a mixed bag- I wasn't as thrilled by the server's choice cheese selection) and a salad with poached pears, pine nuts, and gorgonzola cheese (I thought the pears were amazing, but I was a bit cheesed-out by then). For an entree we split the cod, which was a large portion, so more than enough food for the both of us. And the dessert was great.
Service was fine. The tables are close together, dimmed lighting, making this an ideal date spot.
Total was about 70$ for the both of us not including tip. We also had sparkling water instead of wine. I would definitely come here for dinner again, though the high prices dictate that I will not make it a regular dining experience.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/27/2011
First time here. I came with a friend for Sunday brunch. It was very busy, called ahead for a… Read more »
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Review from Jeremy R.
Lutherville-Timonium, MD
1/23/2012
The Good, The Bad and The Odd.
We recently visited B for restaurant week and can only offer a mixed review of the overall experience.
The Good; salt cod fritters, provencal fish soup, Crispy perfect duck leg confit, molten chocolate and salted caramel dessert with coconut ice cream and chocolate pot au creme.
The Bad; calamari risotto (not creamy, odd flavor), Wild mushroom with gnocchi (Parmesan fondue is basically Alfredo sauce), Cassoulet (overcooked bean mush without sausage), uninterested waitstaff.
The Odd; one half slice of warm bread then no more, wildly variable portioning (half chicken vs. 3/4 cup of risotto or gnocchi with a sprinkling of toppings, large bowl of fish stew vs. 4 ounces of roasted pumpkin). Maybe they just like carnivores better than vegetarians and pescavores.
With more consistent food quality and portioning they could achieve excellence but that was not our experience this time. -
Review from Andrew M.
4/5/2011
While the shabby starving Mica student crowd is down the street getting hammered at the Mt Royal Tavern, B Bistro is jam packed with their quirky left leaning wine swirling parents. Gray haired ex hippies have traded in patchouli and tie dies for Botox and vineyard vines. They still get the munchies, and B is the adult hook up in Bolton Hill.
The chalkboard menu is bound to be seasonal and somewhat regional. Menu items get repetitive: ex: ramps and the same veg sides on multiple dishes. Fish is usually well executed, and the experience with the land dishes was uneven. Steak frites are delicious. B has jumped on the charcruterie bus, this trend needs to end, but the meats and cheeses were well selected and good for sharing. Cassoulet featured fatty duck leg that needed 2 more hours to become confit. The beans were laden with partially cooked chewy fat bombs of bacon creating an expensive and inedible pork n beans.
Wine list is just ok. No booze here, and you may need a nip of courage before coming to prepare you for talking over the din of the closely packed tables. It is best to avoid getting too tipsy, because you need to be well aware of your surroundings walking to your car after dark.
B is better suited to brunch when you can make the most of the bright huge windows and soak in the surrounding historic architecture. When the leaves have turned or flowering Spring trees line the neighborhood, B's outdoor tables are arguably the best in the city. -
Review from Janet D.
Pikesville, MD
2/2/2012
Last night my husband and I came to b Bistro by accident. It was Wednesday, casual date night. Upon walking in, I immediately noticed that we were under dressed. Most men were wearing a jacket or sweater/button down/tie combination and the woman were dressed business casual. We didn't have a reservation but they seated us anyway. Restaurant week menu: The menu contained a lot of pork, shellfish and game meats. We shared 2 appetizers: Forest Mushrooms with polenta and field green salad (which included a VERY generous chunk of blue cheese), we both enjoyed our duck breast and for dessert we shared a cheese plate (most of which was taken home) and delicious house made key-lime pie. Over all b-bistro was a very good value, the portions are large and the food is mostly great; the only down side is the cramped space. Don't forget to dress up! Cheers
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Review from Lola W.
Baltimore, MD
1/28/2012
This place is fabulous. I can not wait to go back! We had the mushroom appetizer and pork appetizer and both were stellar. For my entree I ordered the duck confit and am still thinking about it. Service was also great.
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Review from Kara F.
4/6/2011 3 photos
The streets of Bolton Hill were quiet as we made our way over to b Bistro. During the short walk I lost myself in the magnificence of the elegant homes and the meticulously landscaped boulevards. This row house neighborhood is something straight out of an F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. And then out of nowhere you see b Bistro, a foreign element with its modern design and Christmas light window trim, beckoning you over to the 21st century and into foodie heaven.
I liked this place. The decor is simple and elegant. The service was amazing. The food was very good. I enjoyed my halibut the "catch" of the day and my friend enjoyed his ravioli. If someone were to text me asking if I enjoyed my dining experience, that person could expect a reply that read, "Yay! I'm a fan." -
Review from Zara M.
Baltimore, MD
10/2/2011
The brunch here is yummyyyy.
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Review from Heather S.
Baltimore, MD
1/22/2011
I really like eating here because of the way the restaurant looks. There are not too many good looking bistros like this in Baltimore. It is a great place for a date.
The food is very good as well, Bistro American, a good selection of small plates and mains. I have been eating here for over 3 years, and I am always happy with what i get, even when its just a salad.
One note- they only sell wine and beer. -
Review from A. C.
Baltimore, MD
11/15/2011 23 photos
(11/15/2011) Almost can't even say in words how good the meal was. We made up our own tasting menu, nice offerings of a mix of cool and warm small plates. The server timed the plates smoothly and in good groupings. The menu is simple, really; clean flavors that highlight a single great main star ingredient, like the essence of the thing. Everything we had was of the freshest and highest quality, executed well, accented, not overwhelmed with garnishes/sauces. Couldn't help but get an entree, too. All in all, not unreasonably priced; great food, service and atmosphere. The space is very welcoming, high-ceilinged, cozy, mix of neighbors and young professionals. Rumor has it that the chef, Jamie Forsythe, is leaving New Year's Day, make sure you get to this place before he goes.
Artisinal cheese plate:
- Appalachian (Semi-Soft Tomme style cow's milk), Meadow Creek, Galax, VA
- Merry Goat Round, (White mold rind, soft goat's milk), Firefly Farms, Allegheny, MD
- Valdeon, (Bleu vein, Natural Rind, cow/goat/sheep milk), Leon, Spain
- Deviled eggs with white anchovies: creamy yolks with a dry mustard bitterness, tangy, fishy pickled anchovies, maybe with coriander
- Roasted beets with Valencia orange, local goat's milk cheese: concentrated fresh beet flavor, accented with a tart goat cheese cream
- Crispy pork belly with fried egg, Enrique's tomatillo sauce: irresistable bacon-like crisped pieces of moist, fatty pork belly, richness cut with a nicely acidic, garlicky, tomatillo sauce, creamy, unctuous oozy egg yolk
- Grilled lamb sausage with chickpeas, harissa: meaty, meltingly smooth pureed chickpeas, smokey, slightly spicy harissa
- Handmade lamb agnolotti with sage, brown butter, lemon: buttery, hints of sage, tender springy pasta
- Steamed P.E.I. mussels, with Gueze lambic ale, leeks, Spanish smoked paprika, parsley (with frites, and garlic aioli): fresh tender (not overcooked) mussels, sour, heavily spiced with paprika, very smokey flavored, crisp fluffy fries
- Chocolate pot du creme with vanilla biscotti: intensely dark chocolatey, ultra-smooth, rich, yet light mouthfeel
- Citrus tart with burnt meringue and cardamom ice cream: sweet tart citrus curd filling in a vanilla-y short crust, interstingly paired with the spicy cardamom.
And since it was 1/2 price wine night, every Tuesday, we shared 2 nice ones.
- Vouvray--Domaine Pichot 2009 (Loire, France): fruit, fuller bodied, honeylike
- Cotes du Rhone Villages--Grès St Vincent 08 (Rhone, France): tart, jammy -
Review from Daniel F.
10/11/2011
Excellent neighborhood place in the Bolton Hill area, Was visiting a friend who lived nearby, and we could not get a res at a decent hour on short notice at Woodbury, so went here. Not a large space, but surprisingly not as loud as I feared given the high ceilings and wood floors. Very good service. Shared a starter of gnocchi with cream sauce and melon, and a country pate, both excellent (though I would have enjoyed something a little more durable upon which to spread the pate). My friend and I both got a black cod entree (being from St. Louis, I'll trust an East coast city on fresh fish), with fingerling potatoes, ciopollini, bacon, and hollandaise. Excellent. I enjoyed the local blackberries with creme fraiche as well. Recommended!
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Review from Pamela H.
Miami, FL
9/18/2010 1 Check-in Here
Consistently amazing new American fare with a French bent. Tonight, my boyfriend and I had the crispy pork belly appetizer, the roasted lamb shank, and the slow-roasted magret. All were delicious! Pork belly is kind of hard to mess up, but magret is often difficult to execute well, and they pulled it off with aplomb. Also, I don't usually like lamb, but this lamb, served medium rare with a spicy tzatziki, was tender and succulent.
If you are planning to visit Baltimore, do not miss b. You will regret not going. -
Review from Jessica R.
Baltimore, MD
9/4/2011
Delicious Thai green curry mussels with frites and some lovely Trappist beers available. Great to sit outside and pretend you're in Belgium!
The lemon dessert was so refreshing and light. I will definitely go back! -
Review from Julie H.
Long Beach, CA
4/8/2012
Having been to B twice over the past year, the best word I can use to describe it is inconsistent. If four people are in your party, two will have good food and two will have bad food. Or if you order two things, it is likely that one will be good and one will be bad. For example, I ordered an arugula salad and a squid with saffron risotto. The squid with risotto was perfectly cooked but my salad was horribly oversalted. Who knew someone could ruin something as easy as a bed of arugula with a few shreds of cheese and a lemon vinagrette? Well, if you pour a heaping spoonful of salt over the whole thing, it is inedible and that salad was awful. My husband and father both ordered the amish chicken. My husband's was perfectly cooked. My father's was raw in one piece and cooked on the other. My mother ordered the mussels & frites and the mussels were awful and the frites were delicious. So B. You are unBelievably inconsistent.
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Review from Cali L.
Washington, DC
5/15/2008
This restaurant made me want to live closer to my parents. Enough said.
On Mother's Day we found great service and outstanding food! Our waitress knew exactly how to be friendly and funny without being intrusive.
My mom and I shared some mussels to start. I really thought about asking to take the brothy goodness home but decided that I would just have to return. For dinner I had the branzini (sp?), which was lemon-y and delicate. Mom had some sort of steak with fresh asparagus (a special) and my dad had the ravioli of the day which was more like a dumpling because it had so much filling. All of the dishes were worth having again (and again) and were totally filling. That didn't stop us from getting a couple of desserts though (it was Mother's day after all!). I was pleasantly surprised that a bistro that has such nice dinners can also pull off desserts. I especially liked the vanilla-basil ice cream.
Bottom line: go eat here. -
Review from Mike R.
Baltimore, MD
1/10/2010
On a chilly (okay, it was more like bone-freezingly windy) Saturday night in January, my fiancee and I walked down to b to have dinner with an old family friend. When we walked in, I almost didn't care what the food or atmosphere would be like since it was at least warmer than the outside air, but luckily I was impressed with both aspects of b. The decor is friendly and simple, with warm colors on the walls and ceiling, and a neat chalkboard listing the specials and other short-term items on the menu. The kitchen is pretty open if you're sitting toward the back of the restaurant; however, we were at the front so I couldn't see much.
I am not a wine connoisseur, but the white we ordered (with the help of our very knowledgeable server) was fantastic. That's really all I can say about it, since I know nothing about the bouquet or the aftertaste or any other aspects of wine.
I'm also not a huge stinky cheese fan, so the carmelized pear and cheese salad was a little too flavorful for me. Don't get me wrong, I could tell the cheese was excellent, but I chose to share the salad rather than order my own. Extra-sharp white cheddar is about as aged as I get in everyday life.
For our entrees, I ordered the steak frites, and my fiancee ordered the pan-roasted diver scallops. Both were phemonenal choices. My steak came with a nice plate of crispy and flavorful french fries, along with a dish of garlic mayonnaise that absolutely made the meal. I'm now a fries-with-mayo convert -- but only if the mayo is from b. The scallops were artfully plated and tasted excellent.
For dessert, we shared crème brûlée and ice cream (well okay, I devoured the crème brûlée because it's one of my favorite things in the world). Again, both were excellent.
In the spring, summer and fall, the restaurant sets out tables and chairs on the sidewalk and many patrons choose to eat outside. It's always a neat sight to see diners eating on those long summer evenings, especially since Bolton Hill is such a quiet and low-traffic residential area tucked into the decidedly-louder city of Baltimore. Come to think of it, b's outdoor tables would be the perfect place to share a bottle of wine and a chicken salad sandwich, or perhaps one of b's highly regarded pizzas, on a Tuesday, when bottles are half-off. We'll save that experience for a future--and hopefully warmer--visit. -
Review from Brad T.
Ann Arbor, MI
6/1/2010
While visiting my brother-in-law, my wife and I got an opportunity to go to b Bistro on a date without our infant son. I love that little guy, but it was a massive relief during what had been a very baby-intensive vacation.
We had already eaten dinner, so we went straight to the wine menu for some post-meal drinks. They managed to fit us into an outdoor table despite being busy, and soon we had a very friendly server giving us some menu tips. We decided on a hearty bottle of Cab Franc and spent the next hour enjoying the lively atmosphere surrounding us while grazing on a phenomenal cheese plate.
It would be hard to judge b as a restaurant, but as a casual date spot it was excellent. I thought the staff was very helpful, the wine was great, the cheese plate was creative and delicious, and the environment was relaxed and comfortable. Next time I'm in Baltimore, I can almost promise I'll be back. -
Review from Briana R.
Alpharetta, GA
1/24/2012
In a fit of depression, I was invited out to b Bistro by a few of my buddies (5 others to be exact). I needed some cheering up so I went. We went for brunch so it was mostly breakfast type food. My table ordered the rabbit pate' with marmalade. I do not like marmalade and I despise pate'! I tried a little and hated it but everyone else adored it. Me and one young lady from my group ordered the eggs benedict with some type of french ham slices under it. It was OK but the portion was so small I was very hungry by the end of the meal. She seemed to like it but I didn't hear any ooohs or aaaahhs come from her mouth. Another friend from our table ordered the PEI mussels with green curry sauce and frites. We all got to try some and it seemed to be a big hit at the table so I suggest ordering those if they are on the menu when you come. The curry was something that worked very well with the mussels (surprisingly). They were a tad spicy but even the wimpiest person could handle these. My favorite part is that they offer fresh squeezed organic orange juice here. You haven't lived until you had a glass of hand squeezed orange juice. The flavor was amazing. I hear that the mimosas were incredible here too but I am pregnant so I didn't get to try them first hand. I want to take my mother here one day!
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Review from Jay L.
Baltimore, MD
1/15/2011
After reading great reviews of b Bistro on yelp, my friend encouraged us to go for the past restaurant week, so this review is a bit late. But I had to finish it because...
The service was poor. Our waitress told us of some spectacular sounding appetizers, and raved about her favorite (I do not recall which it was now), but ended up bring us the beet dish, which the 3 of us all disliked. She did not really offer to fix it either, but asked us if it was "okay" that she had the order wrong.
So with that start, the rest of the night was not much better. The entree portions (steak frites, duck confit) were small, the food was I did not think was particularly good. The dessert portion was the only portion that we all agreed was done well.
But more on the service, I guess it was the rush of restaurant week, but our waitress also came by and cleared some dishes before we had finished picking. Based on the service alone I would not recommend the place, but considering the food is subpar, I don't think I'll be headed back for a second chance. -
Review from Thea C.
Baltimore, MD
5/6/2008
I've gone to B on and off since they opened around 2004(?). Two years of that, I lived a few blocks away and at times would head there with my roommates to unwind and have a really good meal. I must say a big part of its appeal for me is that it's tucked away in our little neighborhood and I get a really nice feeling of still being home but escaping all the stressful parts of it.
The brunch is great (whatever bacon they use is divine!)--I usually get a form of eggs benedict and it's right up there as one of my favorites. Dinner is also fabulous--haven't had a bad entree as of yet but I highly recommend the duck! The pasta dishes are also very good and I'm hoping to one day catch them again when they have this divine pumpkin ravioli as a special. The by the glass wines were all very good and I kept note of what they were but most importantly their desserts are almost always NEAR PERFECT. I've probably tried most of them but the last time I was there I had this amazingly good lemon tart with honey ice cream on top. SO DELICIOUS. My favorite before that was the chocolate mousse.
The service was always very good and as everyone has pointed out, get reservations! It's a very tiny place and parking might be a bit of a problem at times as it is in a residential area.Listed in: Top-Notch Standbys
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Review from Caitlin S.
Oakland, CA
8/27/2008
I used to love B. Back in the day, when I had some friends who went to MICA, lived in the neighborhood, and were employed as servers, I was provided excellent service whenever I went into the restaurant. I don't think it was just me who felt this way, the whole vibe of the place was super friendly and considerate.
However, after my friends left, my experiences at B have been far less great, and have actually been disappointing. The menu is pretty pricey, and the wait staff is (typically) exceptionally snooty. I don't mind paying for a great meal, but I would prefer it be served with a side of kindness. The last time I went for dinner, my risotto was exceptionally salty. I feel like salt content is something basic that chefs should be able to master with no problem.
The noise level inside makes intimate conversation difficult. Of course, this has been a constant annoyance at B, but the outdoor tables make dining really pleasant.
I am willing to give B another shot, but my patience with this potential neighborhood gem is running low. I much prefer the other restaurants run by the owner-The Helmand and Tapas Teatro -
Review from Judy C.
New York, NY
10/14/2009
Cute little bistro on the corner in Bolton Hill. High ceiling but cozy at the same time. Very comforting feel.
We dined on a Tuesday evening, which has a 1/2 priced wine special. My friend got the heirloom tomato gazpacho to start, and that was creamy and tasty. I tried the spaetzle with bacon and green beans as I've never had spaetzle. I didn't care too much for the taste, but it wasn't terrible either (just a preference). Then for entrees, my friend got steak frites, and I got the pan-diver scallops. We both enjoyed it. Finished it with an almond cake with cardamon ice cream. I love the cardamon -- not too sweet.
The servers were nice and knowledgeable. Overall a pleasant dining experience. My only 'complaint' is that the price is a bit hefty for the portion. -
Review from Ryan W.
5/25/2008
We were going to a see a show in Baltimore at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, and after doing a Zagat seach, found b Bistro in nearby Bolton Hill. It's a popular neighborhood place in charming Bolton Hill, an enclave of neatly-kept, upscale rowhomes - a surprise amidst the urban decay of Baltimore.
The menu had so many appealing options I didn't know what to order. I started with the eggplant and roasted red pepper app. which was excellent. For my main, I had the salmon with the hoisin bbq sauce - another hit. I went off the beaten track for dessert and had the warm olive oil cake and lemon curd with pistachio ice cream - again excellent. Everyone at the table was very pleased with their selections which ranged from vegetable ravioli to filet mignon.
b Bistro is perfect for before a show at either the Meyerhoff or Lyric and is a pleasant 5 or 6 block walk away from both. But even if you're not going to a show, and want an excellent meal at a neighborhood place without being overrun by tourists at the Inner Harbor, b Bistro is the perfect spot. Highly recommended. -
Review from S T.
College Park, MD
8/16/2011
Hands down one of the best restaurants in Baltimore and for good reason. I took my wife here out of the blue since we always see it in Baltimore magazine and I am glad we did. We have been here at least 5 other times and every time it is fantastic!
The duck breast, charcuterie plate, beef tartare, salmon, grilled calamari, desserts and beer selection are excellent. We were just there this past Saturday and the beef tartare was so good that I ordered a second one!
Now, b is pricey so don't expect a cheap meal but it is well worth it. The portions seem small at first but after splitting a charcuterie plate, having an entree and a dessert I leave quite satisfied...and I am a bit of a lard ass so being full is of utmost importance to me.
The restaurant can get crowded and often you can feel like you are sitting with the people at the next table over, but it has lead to some great conversations. Give b a try and you won't be dissappointed. -
Review from Andre C.
Baltimore, MD
10/5/2011
Best burger I have had since moving to Baltimore. I fancy myself a burger connoisseur (read: I have eaten a shit-ton of burgers) and this is comparable to the "gourmet" burgers I have eaten in Chicago and New York. My fiance had the Waffles and she loved them. Can be pricey (I think my burger with bacon and cheese came out to $16) but you get what you pay for, I guess.
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Review from IH K.
Portland, OR
8/27/2008
I went for dinner - actually, I hosted a fairly large dinner party there (and it's a very small space). Phenomenal service and seating, despite the limitations - which I truly appreciate because I don't know a single place in DC that would have managed a similar event so seamlessly.
The food was good. Simple, good ingredients - cooked well. This is my favorite type of food - but definitely still recommendable for those who have a preference for complex flavors and creativity. -
Review from Pam B.
Lutherville-Timonium, MD
8/9/2011
The food was absolutely delicious! No question about it, the locality (the fact that our waiter could tell us what farm each individual ingredient came from) and the flavor were both high points for me. I shared each course and between us we had the gazpacho and the pork belly (apps), forest mushrooms and veal sweetbreads (main courses), and the chocolate cake and cheese plate (final courses). Of everything I ate, the sweetbreads were my favorite, and my companions favorite was the pork belly.
Service was good, everyone seemed to be working as a team, and an item that came out late was taken off our bill (fries as a side). Overall I was happy with the service that I received.
I would recommend this restaurant to anyone wanting a fresh, local, and flavorful meal!
