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Category: Restaurants [Edit]
Neighborhood: Bella VistaI think Bibou got me to eat parts of an animal one should never eat (liver, brain, etc). For that, I applaud them.
I went many months back with my family and the food was fantastic. I ordered some sort of terrine and I have no idea what was in it. But it was delicious. I think that my parents were lying to me when I asked them what it contained because they didn't want me to know.
Other courses were had and reveled about as well.
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Had a private event here (had to close the restaurant due to the intimate space setting). Pierre, Charlotte and their staff did an excellent job!!
Food and service were outstanding!!
Highly recommended for authentic French cuisine!!
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Finally made it to Bibou (but unfortunately forgot my camera). There were six of us and many items… Read more »
French food has this reputation for being unapproachable and effete. Maybe deservedly so. In America, we measure entrees by the pound, and they damn well better come with two sides, and one of those better be a pile of potatoes.
Bibou goes to great lengths to make French fare friendly without pandering to American food conventions. No Freedom Fries on the side here.
The formula for accomplishing this feat is one part first-class hospitality and one part superbly executed cuisine. The offerings on Pierre Calmel's chef's tasting were not only challenging to the palette but rewarding for the adventure. When a former executive chef from Le Bec Fin says "try this on for size", you listen to the man.
Each of the seven courses was unique, delicate, balanced, exquisitely flavorul, and surprisingly simple. This, given the fact that we encountered such mysteries as foie gras, bone marrow and sweetbreads.
Charlotte, the hostess who doubles as Pierre's wife was sweet and welcoming. She spent the time to chat with us, was genuinely interested in conversation, and made our experience warm and memorable. Note to self: She deserves personal thanks.
I would recommend Bibou to anyone who has a curiosity for French, a stomache for adventure, and a need to step outside the conventions of everyday dining.
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Pros:
creative and extremely well prepared food, decent portion size, fair prices, excellent service, nice atmosphere, BYOB
Cons:
Loud, desserts just OK, hard to book reservation
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The best and most enjoyable BYO meal I've had in Philadelphia (and I've had alot). The owner/hostess was extremely nice. They handled our nice bottle of wine that we brought back from France appropriately. But most importantly....the food was spectacular and simple all at the same time. It's the kind of experience that you can only have in Philadelphia - out of the way BYO, small dining room, decent prices, and ridiculously good food.
The only issue was they weren't ready for us at our reservation time. In fact it took 45 minutes for them to get our table cleared and ready, but this time was passed easily at Royal Tavern so I really can't conplain.
If I have to compare, I'd say it's better than Bistrot la Minette and Cochon, both of which I love. But all three are just so much better than your run of the mill (usually italian...) BYO.
Giggle.
That's what we did during our entire meal. It was so delicious, that it was a giggle-meal. And when we looked around the small dining room - ya know what? Everyone else was just as cheery. Why? This place has it all - great staff, cosy atmosphere, amazing food, BYOB...
While we were waiting for our table a couple came out who were beaming after their meal. Upon their recommendation, my husband ordered the stuffed pigs feet and I the duck. Now, I'm not a fan of pigs feet - but he thought they were perfect (in a pigs feet kind of way.) My duck confit was astounding! Every bite was sinful. We also had the bone marrow for a starter, along with an amazing mushroom... creamy... non-menu, special. I have no idea what it was called, but it was heavenly. Dessert was an equally yummy fig tart with pistachio ice cream.
My only issue (and these are so minor): We had to ask for water every time our cups went dry. In their defense, the place was packed, and every time a table opened up, another party filled the void. Each time we asked, our server apologized as if he knew he should have gotten to us sooner. Heck, maybe we just drink water too quickly. It's not enough to take a star away - this place is amazing.
It's a welcome addition to the neighborhood. In fact, we purchased two gift certificates as gifts after our meals - we were that impressed. Go to Bibou now, while you still can get a table... and even now - make a reservation.
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As far as I'm concerned, Bibou serves the best French food in the city. My husband and I ordered the foie gras and escargots for appetizers. I would say the foie gras is the best I've had in the city. As far as the escargots, the only escargots better than Bibou was the one I had in Montreal.
For an entree, I had the pig's feet, which was heaven. It's crispy on the outside and has this gelatinous consistency on the inside. I'm not a fan of lentils though, so maybe next time I would ask them to substitute the lentils with something else. My husband had the hanger steak which was also excellent. But, if you're the adventurous type, go with the pig's feet. you won't be disappointed.
We just got back from Bibou, and I've already made my next reservation for dinner. Although, be sure to make them far in advance. The earliest reservation available is a month away.
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We had two great meals here - this place is a delight.
Seated promptly on both times. Service was attentive and warm, the husband and wife - chef and hostess both stopped at the table to talk to us on both time and really made us feel welcome.
I tried several dishes there - my favorite was the braised pig feet braised to perfection and crisped on a bed of lentils - that dish was great.
French classics like Terine and Escargots - very nicely done. Great coffee. The one dish that was a little too complicated the bone marrow with mushrooms and carmalized onions definately tasted the onions and herbs not so much the bone marrow.
Didn't try desert - were too full - highly recommend this place.
Yum
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I think what makes this place amazing, in addition to the delicious food, are the people. The chef's wife is hostess and immediately makes you feel at home, as does the wait staff. If you think French restaurant and snobbery, well this place will change that feeling. The small menu is adventurous but not over the top.
I've never had braised pig feet and wanted to try them but wasn't sure I'd like them enough for an entire entrée, so the hostess recommended that we try a half portion (served at the same time as the entrees.) This is what we did and although it was delicious, I was glad we took her advice. Both appetizers, Escargots, snail ragout, Fava beans and mushrooms, flavored with tarragon and the Terrine, a Quail mousse with red cabbage salad, were delicious. The hanger steak was very very good but "the winner" was the seared halibut fillet with cherry tomatoes and artichoke fricassee in a red wine sauce. I've never had a better prepared or tasting fish entrée - anywhere!
With a shared cheese plate and one cup of amazing decaf coffee, the bill, before tip, came to around $105. This was one of the most enjoyable meals we've had in Philadelphia in a long time and definitely we will be back. BYO - Cash Only
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Bibou is a small wonder with exceptional food, service and a charming atmosphere--we will definitely be back! The prices are also very reasonable for the quality of food and experience.
My boyfriend and I tried the oxtail and escargots appetizers which were both deliciously noteworthy.
Our duck entree was lovely --and dessert, Charlotte's grandmother's chocolate cake with caramel was a remarkable finish!
The atmosphere was very pleasant and the place seemed to be full of regulars--many of them French natives which goes to show that this place is no joke!
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Having never been at Pif, I couldn't compare the decor, but to me, it was simple, neat and just what you need for a South Philly BYOB.
Called to let the lovely Charlotte that we were running late on our OpenTable reservation. After parking in the public lot right next to the restaurant (3 hour), we get seated right away.
Since it is Sunday, the full menu isnt available and we are offered a $45 prix-fixe menu consisting of an Amuse-Bouche, an appetizer (choice of Head Cheese Terrine, Escargots, or Seared Foie Gras), an entree (choice of Hangar Steak, Ahi Tuna, Duck Breast), and a dessert (choice of Chocolate cake, Apricot Tarte, Sorbet).
Charlotte tells me she can adjust it and be flexible about the whole thing and thus I inquire about the Braised Pigs Feet stuffed with Foie Gras. Score.
After choosing a bottle of Badoit (other choice is San Pellegrino for Sparkling), we start off with a Consomme (chilled squab broth). Very flavorful and a good intro to what's about to come.
My girlfriend and I both choose the Seared Foie Gras and I must say, after having done most of the places that serve it in Philly, this was my personal favorite. Served with Raspberries and Sliced Almonds as well as a lingot of what seemed to be cinnamon bread, the foie's flavor was really well complimented by the acidity of the berries and the almonds and the cinnamon bread added a more complex texture to the usual texture of the seared foie.
Came her Magret de Canard (duck breast - medium rare) on wild rice and my Braised Pigs Feet on French Lentils. I had actually never eaten pigs feet prepared this way. The texture is rather gelatinous with an outside crisp but the flavor is rich and smokey. Certainly a hearty dish, and I didnt finish my lentils as there was just so much of them. But this dish is the epitome of Chef Pierre Calmels' cuisine. Not your typical "Philly-French" cuisine. Highly recommended dish.
The magret was cooked perfectly and the sauce was right on point.
When it came to choosing a dessert, unfortunately, the big table (10) next to us (Le Bec-Fin employees I was told) grabbed the last chocolate desserts and so we were reduced to Sorbet or Apricot Tarte. I asked if it would be possible to get a cheese plate instead and Charlotte happily obliged. Sandy, my girlfriend, got the Apricot Tarte.
I was served three cheeses: one goat cheese, one from the Basque Country, and a "stinky" one. (Pardon the lack of cheese knowledge here. I enjoy cheese a lot but am by no means well educated in it)
Really enjoyed the Basque Country one.
Finally, we were asked if we wanted coffee, French Pressed Coffee, or Espresso. Opted for a rather excellent Espresso (Forgot to ask what coffee they serve).
Chef Pierre and Charlotte proceeded to do their round of the tables and we got to discuss their first month and the dinner.
We were informed that a Tasting Menu would be available every night (7 dishes for $70), that they were planning a Foie Gras and an Oyster Dinner, much like their previous Escargot Dinner (which was 5 courses for $55).
Going back this Saturday for a birthday party of 8, but from what I saw tonight, the place is more than ready for big parties.
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This small twenty some seat BYOB is extremely charming. Everything about Bibou--the husband wife owners, the flatware, the bathroom, the madeleines that come with the check--is cute. I started with the escargot AND the pig's head pate. The snails were very delicious in a taragon sauce. The pig head pate was wrapped in a crispy filo dough and it melted in my mouth.
My pig's feet stuffed with foie gras served over lentils was maybe the richest dish I ever ate. In fact, it was the first time in my life that I loved an entree but could not finish it. And my friend's Tuna was perfectly seared.
It is really inspiring to see such love and personal attention given to a restaurant. The chef, Pierre, walked the dining room shaking hands and even taking pictures for customers. His wife, Charlotte, was charming and sweet, even taking orders and opening wine.
A great experience all around. I will go back often.
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It was a very good experience and though we wished it'd be the WOW one, some how it didn't deliver that feeling. At least not what we tasted with Chef's tasting menu dinner. When we visit Philly again we'll try their menu of the day and hope to receive what we are looking for. But so far we don't feel that what we tasted was one of a kind amazing food.
i don't know why french people aren't all stuck-to-the chair fat, if bibou is a representation of fine french dining. i mean, even the name implies cherubs and cheek-pinching.
so, my fellow food indulgers and i came here, on a summery thursday night. the place is tiny. (make reservations!) i got the porcini and duck appetizer and the pigs feet/foie entree, and there was lots to be shared and tried among the table.
my entree was melt-in-your-mouth tasty. and rich. i think i had a mild heart attack whilst eating it. the bites that i had of everyone else's food was also just as tasty (blood sausage, scallops, tuna, gazpacho...you name it, i tried it!) charlotte heard that multiple people at the table liked tripe, and her husband whipped us up some of that as well, and shared some leftover bottles of wine with us. what more could you ask for?
it's lovely and quaint. it's french. it's heart attack inducing. so go. or maybe not. because with only seating for about 20, if you go, i may not ever get a table!
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(3.5 stars, really)
Tres tres francais, MAIS tres tres petit.
In other words, the flavors and the quality of the food were excellent and true to french cuisine. Very well prepared and executed extremely beautifully. HOWEVER, the restaurant and portions were extremely small. What does this mean?
Small restaurant = feels like every other byob in philadelphia. Cramped space, door to bathroom in the dining room which swing right open for a view of the toilet from the tables, and decor from ikea.
Small portions = $26 for 2 minuscule medallions of veal in my entree? Please.
I'm not a huge-portion type of person, but I also have a minimum threshold below which I find portion size to be ridiculous and offensive.
Had to go to whole foods afterwards and get a snack -- and this was after an appetizer, entree, and a shared dessert.
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I was eager to try the newly opened Bibou and went to dinner there tonight with three friends. The old Pif space has been lovingly redone, with dark wainscoting contrasting nicely with the elegantly set tables. Charlotte Calmels is the perfect hostess: the welcome is warm and charming, and everything is done to make you comfortable at one of the very closely spaced tables. The menu is short but diverse, with some dishes hinting at the Burgundian origin of the chef (snail ragout with fava beans).
We tried the soup of the day, made with corn and lump crab meat, its velvety creaminess nicely contrasted with tasty kernels of roasted corn, the foie gras, unctuously rich as expected on a port and cassis reduction, and the beautifully textured rillettes terrine. For our main dishes, we had the deftly prepared duck breast special, the richly tasting hangar steak (both meats perfectly cooked rare to medium rare), a moistly sweet halibut on basmati rice with ramps, incredibly light and deeply flavored, and the breaded veal scaloppini, correctly done but my least favored dish of our order.
The desserts, as well as the cheese plate, need some tweaking. The $12 cheese plate came with three small pieces of good but hardly exceptional cheeses, a few grapes and some salad greens - serviceable but not up to the high standards of the first two courses. Similarly, the desserts are all good - a nicely caramelized apple Tarte Tatin with chocolaty ice cream, a "chocolate millefeuille" that brought miniscule layers of creamy chocolate on crisp puff pastry - but they too are not in the class of the appetizers and main courses.
The price/quality ratio is excellent, most appetizers are under ten dollars (the exception, of course, is the foie gras) and the most expensive main courses are in the mid twenties. You can end the meal with a rich French Press coffee and a couple tiny madeleines (the latter compliments of the house). Lovely! The service is professional and diners can have a quick conversation with chef Pierre Calmels when he briefly leaves his kitchen. It is simply marvelous to go out in South Philadelphia and sit in a restaurant with such amazingly sophisticated food at such affordable prices. Word has already gotten around, the restaurant was full at all times with content diners, enjoying the good luck of having a place like Bijou join the list of fine Philadelphia BYOBs. My rating is 4.5 - when the cheese platter gets better, it will be a 5 star place!
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If you never experience fine French dining because of its price, Bibou is for you. Excellent food, clean, neat decor, cozy and friendly. Service is impeccable. The spotless bathroom tells you how much this place is CLEAN. Must make reservation, because you won't get a table, even if you are connected to the owners. The "escargots" are to fall off your chair, the sorbet at the end is delightful. My husband had a "Pied de Porc with Lentilles"... amazing. The menu changing with the seasons, and they use fresh products only. The "Free Three Hours Parking", make it a no brainer to go there. Bring your own bottle or 2, and enjoy. French press cafe at the end. If I had to have a last meal before life leave me, I'll go at Bibou. Enjoy!
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Bibou might have been the most charming restaurant I have even eaten in. The chef's wife, Charlotte, worked the dining room, sincerely chatting up all the tables and making everyone feel like a VIP. The menu was fairly small but I had a hard time choosing, in the end I went for the tomato gazpacho with mahi mahi tartate and the seared tuna. I ordered the tuna extra rare, and they actually sent it out right, I feel like a lot of kitchens don't think I am serious about that. Everything was delicious and beautifully plated. At my friends urging, I used the bathroom, and he was right, it was so big in comparison to the tiny restaurant. The fixtures were fancy and there were fresh linens and yummy soap - a nice experience of its own. Then we had the french press coffee which we really enjoyed, and we are coffee snobs. That came out with warm madelines that I gobbled down, although I overheard another diner (who perhaps had one glass of wine too many) tell the chef himself that her husband makes better madelines!
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They've redone the interior -- it's much nicer than Pif -- but the food is not as good as Pif's. The cold corn soup with bits of lobster was lovely and flavorful, and the escargot was hearty and rich and half a meal by itself. I asked the hostess how the veal with sweetbreads would be cooked and was told it was very thin, so level of cooking was not important; but what I got was a thick, stringy chunk of veal that was seared on the outside and undercooked on the inside. Unfortunate. It seems that they've been trying different versions of the veal but this was definitely not the right way. The sauce on the dish was very good but the sweetbread was nothing special. We also got the scallops, which were perfect, and which came with a weird but interesting pickled ratatouille with bits of clam. Again, with a good sauce. The tarte tatin had no carmelization, which is the point of the dish. It was more like a poached apple on a crust, with (good) vanilla ice cream. So, overall, Bibou was okay but with some weird mistakes. Maybe they'll work out the kinks, but they've got to try harder if they're going to compete with all the similar places in the neighborhood, some of which are very good - Cochon, La Minette, Saute, etc.
Added on 6/12/09: I've just read the subsequent reviews from May-June 2009. It's true, Bibou is pretty good, but these reviews are awfully ecstatic and detailed. They stink of owner intervention.
Bibou, the husband-wife BYO in the former Pif location is churning out wonderful dishes in a lovely space. First, the space itself is wonderful -- warm and cozy, with lovely silverware and glassware, perfect for a delicious french meal. Next, the food is delectable; having been there three times, my wife and I have ordered the majority of things on the menu and we are yet to be disappointed. The pig's head terrine is silky and delicious; the duck breast is perfectly cooked; and the various specials of chantrelle mushrooms and tripe are outstanding. Simply put, the food could not be any better. Finally, the team of Charlotte and Pierre welcome you into the restaurant as if you were walking into their home. They treat you as the perfect hosts and are gracious with their time and charm. I would recommend Bibou to anyone who loves good food, value, and atmosphere. In other words, get here as fast as you can.
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