Beaujolais Bistro

June 23, 2013 Sunday - dinner 5:30 PM
2 adults

Atmosphere - 5 stars
Food - 5 stars
Service - 5 stars

Background - Celebrating our first anniversary with my wife, she loves French food. She had no clue where we were going here for dinner.

Atmosphere - A small place, the exterior is deceiving.

Food
Appetizer - Foie gras with a fig jam. First time for this, yes I know the controversy about this, but if you eat animals does it really matter, when the animal is bread and raised for this purpose.

Drinks - Water for me and the wife had a glass of red wine. They have a full bar. The wine menu was more of a geography lesson than a wine list. I love looking at maps, and they covered a majority of California and French wine areas.

My Main Course - I went with rabbit. This was the first time I had rabbit, and I was pleased with what I got. I would order it here again. It was on a bed of linguine noodles, very long and perfectly cooked.

My Wife's Course - She went with the roasted duck. Duck was really good but it came with a cherry wine sauce. In that cherry wine sauce was three fresh pitted cherries, I had a half of one, oh my, it was heavenly. I could have eaten a bowl of those cherries.

Dessert - Did not have any as the wedding cake was waiting for us at home.

Service - It was 5:30 and only one other couple was there when we got there. They already had one of the window tables set up for us. The people that walk by are entertaining. My water glass was never empty. The team that waited on us was very pleasant and the place had a good crowd by the time we left. They validated our parking for the garage that has Silver Peak in it. So my parking was free, I know it was hidden in the meal somewhere.

Future - Yeah it was amazing so we will be back.

It is such a pleasure to dine in a place where food has been prepared with the utmost care and attention. No skipped steps. We were in Reno for a convention and the food at this Bistro was so good that we returned again on our last day.
The onion soup was perfect. Deep layers of flavor in the broth , just enough bread and gruyere. - not easy to come by since most restaurants put to much bread and cheese on top, it was also piping hot as it should be. The oysters came with a mignonette that had the right balance between shallots and fresh cracked pepper.
The Duck was seductive and delicious. A big surprise were the "Huckleberry Crepes with lemon Sabayon.
Perfect balance between tartness and sweetness, excellent end to a most delicious and memorable meal.
Hats off to the chef and the staff. You are doing a wonderful think at Beaujolais Bistro. We look forward to going back next year during our veterinary conference.
Alina

Competition for fining dining is somewhat competitive in Reno but no place really offers French cuisine in the manner Beaujolais Bistro does. I came here two weeks for my birthday and had a 5 star experience.

The partial run down....

For appetizers we ordered the escargot which where served piping hot and drenched in a delicious and lightly seasoned butter sauce. Ordering escargot at a French restaurant might be cliche but it's also a smart move. I love ESCARGOT!! We then had the mussels which were also a hit. The critters came served with a creamy sauce which doubled as a dipping sauce for the rustic and freshly made bread. We had two orders of bread and each time you could tell it came fresh from the oven - real treat for bread lovers like myself!

For my entree I ordered the Cassoulet which was a revelation. This slow cooked traditional French stew contained pork belly, pork sausage, cannelloni beans and a large duck leg placed perfectly on top of the dish. It was rich, flavorful, and the portion was surprisingly large, and all for $24.

The service was efficient, accommodating and they allowed us ample time to enjoy our courses and each others company on a slower Tuesday evening. I've never had a bad meal at BB but this was by far the best. The rest of the table enjoyed their dishes which consisted of their steak, salmon special and the sweet breads. BB is one of Reno's greatest restuarants and I hope people looking to branch out from the mundane nature of many area restuarants look to BB for special occasions, business meetings and romantic evenings. LuLou's, 4th St and Beaujolais Bistro stand on their own whether they are in Reno or San Francisco and I feel lucky to have them in our small city.

Beaujolais Bistro is really a nice surprise in the Downtown Reno area. A quaint French Bistro is not exactly the first thing that comes to my mind when it comes to Reno, so I was glad to have discovered this spot.

When you go inside, it's very welcoming and the atmosphere is warm and relaxing. It's definitely a spot well suited for French comfort food.
http://bit.ly/ZSRm3M

My waitress was very enthusiastic. It was really hard for me to turn down her suggestions. I originally intended to order foie gras as my appetizer, but she had me sold with the mackerel escabeche which was their one of their specials for the night. It was really good!
http://bit.ly/ZSRrV8

For my main entree, I decided on Sweet Bread out of curiosity since I've heard good things about it but I've never had it before. I don't even know what Sweet Bread is other than the fact that I've seen it used on cooking competition TV shows. But damn, that was good! It was a very good portion size plus it came with bacon!!
http://bit.ly/15ZbbNQ

I didn't plan on having dessert, but since I had an appetizer and main course, I figured it was just appropriate to finish my dinner with something sweet. I went with the Lemon Crepe. It didn't knock my socks off, but it was still good and nice way to cap off my dinner.
http://bit.ly/17nFM5T

It's nice to know that Beaujolais is doing well. So good that my waitress said they were moving to a nice spot on the Riverwalk. Though I'm happy to know that they're moving to a nicer space on the Riverwalk, I'm going to miss this quiet little spot on West St. Definitely check out Beaujolais if you're ever in Reno. It's French Cuisine at its best!

This is actually one of my favorite restaurants in the Reno area. I have only been here twice and that is mostly because I cannot really afford to come here on my own. Luckily, I was taken to dinner Wednesday night so my pocketbook didn`t suffer. Thanks to my in-laws!

This cute little bistro is located on a downtown side street where you think you might get mugged, and you just might. Travel in groups, people! Walking into this place you are transported from the crazy wind of downtown Reno, into a comfortable, softly lit French eatery. It is clean, cozy, and the string lights and decor really make it something special.

On this particular visit we were greeted by the very nice host, and seated immediately. We had reservations, but it was just before 6 and quite empty still(did not stay that way). We got our waters, and were given the menus to browse. We did order a bottle of French white wine, which came out promptly. Menu browsing, explanation of specials and how the menu was laid out took place. Standard. The waitress was nice, informative, and very French which I so adored and appreciated.

I ended up ordering the French onion soup and Tuna Tartare. The other diners at my table opted for the Steak Frites and ordered some of those snails. Oh, excuse me, escargot. The escargot and soups came out first. I had never tried these slimy little creatures, but after a couple of glasses of wine, I thought to myself, "That sounds like it could...be....tasty?". So I tried one. First of all: YUM! If you are a fan of mussels or any other chewy deliciousness that has been drowned in garlic and butter you will love these. Definitely NOT what I expected, or anticipated. Very delicious. Good consistency with a bite, and the flavors of the garlic and butter(I just love those two words together), and parsley were amazing. Try it! You will not be sorry. Next I dove into my French onion soup which I had the first time I came here and it was just as good, if not better, than I had remembered. VERY hot when it hit the table, so do yourself a favor and have some more wine first. Anyway, the soup is AMAZING. Best French onion soup I had ever had. The sweetness of the developed caramelized onions with all the beef stock, cheese, and soaked bread is an experience. Do yourself a favor and do not leave without trying this soup. Then came out my Tuna tartare which was a dainty, small dish but I wanted something light after the mountain of cheese and bread I had just consumed. It was good, but not great. There seemed to be a lack of seasoning overall for whatever reason. The bottom layer is creamy avocado, and the top the tuna tartare with some greens on top. There was an olive oil parsley sauce on the plate as well. Maybe it was parsley? Don`t quote me on that. Anyway, it seemed to lack the punch I was looking for in the dish. Good, but I`m not sure I would order it again. Last but not least we had the chocolate mousse which was divine! So creamy, chocolaty, and delicious. I wanted to lick the glass.

Overall, this place is pricey, but I would definitely recommend coming here at least once if you live in the Reno area. Great atmosphere, with yummy French food.

We met a couple of friends here for dinner. The exterior is misleading, kind of hiding the rustic brick wall interior. I don't know how to explain it very well, but the bare brick walls, decorated with the plain framed artwork.

Our reservations were for 7pm and we arrived to find the Bistro about half full. The other guests had finished and left, and another group came in before we finished. All evening long a server was running dishes out the front door to the street to the wine bar a couple of doors up.

We had a party of four, and came in expecting great things and were not disappointed. (re: @Rose C., I don't think it was the staff who had the bad attitude.) The bread came out warm and very crunchy just like it's supposed to be (re: @D-shiz L., it;s *supposed* to be crunchy)

We started with:
1. Mussels with Bacon and Shallot Vinaigrette - WOW, these are easily the very best mussels I've ever had in my life (and I'm not 20 anymore)

2. Warm Artichoke, Goat Cheese, Sundried Tomato, and Basil - Tasty deliciousness, although I would have liked more of them. I also wish I had saved some bread to sop up the delicious sauce

3. Butter Lettuce, Roquefort, Walnuts, and Creamy Lemon Dressing - My friend had this one and I had a bite. I'm not a big fan of roquefort but the dressing was very tasty

and

4. Onion Soup Gratinée - can't say we all shared this dish, but my friend who had it said it was easily the best onion soup he's ever had.

For our entree we had:
1. Baked Phyllo with Mushroom, Goat Cheese, Spinach, and Risotto - My friend had this dish and she said it was delicious

2. Seared Scallops with Chestnut Ravioli - My husband had this dish and said it was very tasty

3. Air Chilled Organic Chicken Phyllo Napolean with Grapes, Walnuts,
and Exotic Mushrooms - This was mine, and the serving size was gigantic. I couldn't finish it. The phyllo was crisp and flaky delisiousness

4. Pork loin wrapped in prechuto (evening special) - my friends husband had this and said it was very good.

(sorry, I can't go on a great deal over the dish's I didn't actually eat myself - but bottom line is that everyone was very happy with their meal)

For dessert we had:
1. Chocolate Mousse - If mousse is on the menu, my husband has to have it. This was particularly good he said (better than he's had elseware locally recently)

2. pastry puffs (sorry, don't know the name of them and they're not on the website menu to copy/paste) - my friend had these and said they were *REALLY* good

3. Home made Huckleberry Ice cream - WOW, my friend's husband and I both had this choice. Light, smooth and creamy berry that wasn't too sweet to pallet. Hand made, in house, this was highly recommended and I'm very glad it is what I ordered. The coffee is fresh ground and brewed to order, and the creamer was steamed prior to serving.

All and all a very memorable evening - highly recommended!

While my daughter has eaten here several times, this was a first for my husband and myself.

We had reservations for 5pm, opening time. Arriving a few minutes early, the front door was not yet unlocked. Great, now it has started to rain. The staff opened the door, inviting us to have a seat even though they were not yet open. It was not long before we had water and bread in front of us even though it was not quite 5pm. Our water glasses never got below half-full all night before some one was there to refill them. That in itself is a feat as I drink water like I am a fish. The bread was excellent, warm, freshly sliced, and crusty as a good French bread should be.

The atmosphere is very "Country French," small and quiet. Our server was very friendly and quick to give us the specials for the night. The specials sound so delicious that my husband quickly changed from his original selection to the venison dish in a huckleberry sauce. The other special was quickly claimed by my daughter, scallops and shrimp.

We ordered two appetizers to share among the three of us. One was the special sweet pea soup and the other was off the menu, I don't recall the name. Both of were excellent and the portions were great to share.

We had plenty of time to enjoy our appetizers before our entree was brought to the table. I do love to be able to finish our appetizers, have the table cleared, and to relax a little before the entree.

When our entrees were brought to the table, the aroma was fantastic! Our venison was excellent! I was unable to finish mine as the portions are generous. My daughter's scallops and shrimp were wonderful and she did finish all of hers.

Now comes dessert! We decided to share a chocolate mousse and a poached pear. I wish I could have had both all to myself.

When we go out to dinner, we like to be able to relax and take our time. We never felt rushed by the staff. The staff was always close at hand to take care of us and any needs that we might have.

Would I recommend this nice, quiet, little bistro? In a heart beat, YES. Make sure to come hungry and have to time to enjoy the great food! Do not expect to be in and out in a hurry, all food is freshly prepared for you.

I wanted to take my wife out for a nice date place and this came to mind. I had a few Yelpers say it was a good idea so I made reservations with open table over my phone.

We headed down on a Friday night and found ourselves about a half hour early but they were very accommodating.

I like this place...but it is on the smallish side. When it comes to atmosphere it reminds me a little of a Basque restaurant. Not really what I had in mind for a "romantic intimate" date, but hey, the food is going to be really good.

I ordered the Beef Bourgeon. I've never had it before so I just had to have this famous dish...It was great. It reminded me of a roast.

My wife ordered the bacon wrapped ahi, a special for that evening. She loved it, and I loved her leftovers even more.

We weren't in the wine mood so we just had water.


The service was efficient and professional.

What atmosphere: Mom's favorite table is by the fireplace. Mine is on the outside deck, at sunset facing the river. The bar is so friendly you don't want to keave it when either one is open. Beaujolais has a too-pricey reputation which I feel is undeserved. There's definitely more value than Campo here & better food imo, most all organic. My big bowl of mussels & frites w/delicious refills on bread, $21. Mom always gets the salmon over eggplant puree and raves every time. I love that they tell you exactly where each item comes from. FYI corkage is $25 (ok... that is pricey).
James works the front of the house & is so enjoyable to talk to we wish he'd pull up a chair and join us someday. The best we've found, repeat visit heaven!

This restaurant is an upscale, French, fine dining experience. It's done very well.

I read something about a prix fixe menu, but didn't see anything about it so I called and the owner/head chef was nice enough to set one up for me. He was nice about it even though at one point the conversation got a bit confusing. We were able to make a reservation, but it was a Tuesday night and we really didn't need one. It was pretty cool to be able to speak directly with the owner that would be responsible for planning my meal and for the menu of the restaurant.

Our server was excellent, patient, friendly and helpful and she loosened up for us when we showed that we had a sense of humor and didn't take ourselves really seriously. Top notch.

The inside was pretty standard upscale dining with white tablecloths and minimally decorated dining room with a bar near the back of the restaurant. The restaurant is near the Truckee River so it could be an excellent choice for a date as you can walk along the river before or after eating.

I was able to get a wine flight with my prix fixe menu that complimented each dish. It featured a champagne and not one, but two rose wines which I initially found disconcerting, but the roses were excellent and the wine interplayed nicely with the food.

While many tasty items came with my prix fixe, the most surprisingly good was a fried, shredded potato appetizer. It was a very inventive use of potatoes and had a uniquely delicious taste with some delicious oil in which it was cooked and a couple other items (veggies, if I remember correctly) that were part of the arrangement with the shredded potatoes and veggies formed into quasi patties.

Food presentation was very well thought out. If you haven't seen food as art, you can see it here.

I was able to make a few adjustments (including getting rid of bleu cheese dressing from a salad and getting a vinaigrette instead) too without getting any disagreement or judgment from my server.

Portion sizes are smallish, consistent with what we're really supposed to eat, portions from 20 years ago and more like how Europeans tend to eat, eating much smaller portions, but having more dishes overall.

The veggies were the most remarkable thing, lightly cooked in oil, slightly crisp and absolutely wonderful.

The meat dishes were focused on a few particular flavors, mild, cooked just right and very pleasant.

While nothing really jumps out at me as remember my meal from a few months ago (I recall prosciutto and a salad too), I do recall enjoying a very nice dining experience, a most remarkable merlot (one of the best wines I've ever had, shocking for a merlot) and that everything was prepared well and enjoyable.

It's not the best food I've had, but it was among the best fine dining experiences that I've had and certainly the best while living in the Reno-Sparks area.