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| - I'm really not sure why this place doesn't have higher ratings. Perhaps it's misleading to think 'bistro' because it's more of a classy restaurant and bar than anything else. The food has hints of the artsy taste of the really expensive stuff (think Michelin star restaurants in SF) but at less than half the price.
Perhaps it's that the entrance can be confusing to find, or that one particular waiter has a bit of a snobbish air, or that entrees run in the $20 and up range.
But the ambiance, decor, and the food make up for that. How should I describe the food? It is always playful, and the flavors sophisticated. The meat is some of the best I've had in Cleveland: cooked perfectly, flavorful and juicy but not overdone. Although the portions don't look that big, the richness of the food fills you up quickly. Things change around on the menu so I can't say if the specific dishes I've tried on past occasions are still offered--but the short ribs have always been great. On a recent Valentine's Day there was a special menu with a delicious crab-stuffed bass dish.
Overall, the food here is always creative and in my opinion, worth the price. Some restaurants charge more for food just because of the ingredients (seafood, organic beef, etc) but this place has taste. No it doesn't compare to an $80 meal of pure artistic genius, but then you don't have to spend that much to experience what is still quality chef skill.
They offer Groupons from time to time so I would definitely recommend checking it out with a discount. I have not tried the wine list, the bar, or the happy hour menu, so I can only vouch for the food--which I definitely recommend.
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