Just when you thought the Atlanta restaurant scene couldn’t get any more crowded, comes Bistro Niko with a fresh and innovative take on the decadent world of French cuisine. Labeled as “contemporary Parisian dining,” it is just that, with lots of old world charm, aesthetic and sensibilities, but a modern spin on classic dishes, service and atmosphere. Beautiful grand ceilings with gold accents and an expansive dining area with incredible views and attentive service staff immediately draw you in before you take a bite of the wonderful cuisine that waits.
Guided by the brilliant culinary mind and skill of Executive Chef Gary Donlick, the menu offers a delicious glimpse of traditional French cuisine with a few welcomed surprises sprinkled throughout. While Bistro Niko is under the culinary juggernaut Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, it was only fitting that Donlick, who had been a chef at other restaurants within the BLRG umbrella, be appointed head chef of their newest venture. When one visits a restaurant where foreign cuisine is served, it is quite easy to feel overwhelmed by what you should order and what everything is. However, with the menu written in French and the English translation right next to it, there is no sense of surprise as you mull over your food choices. Also, the staff has an expert way of explaining each dish in a very soothing manner that calms any uncertainties you may have.
Now let’s discuss the wonderful food! Beginning with the appetizers, there are several succulent options to perfectly commence a meal. The Moules “Gilbert” (Blue Hill mussels, white wine, shallots, cream & parsley), Croque “Monsieur” au Saumon (butter grilled brioche with smoked salmon & fromage blanc) and the Confit de Canard (crisp duck confit, frisée salad and crisp duck potatoes are so incredibly delectable that you may find yourself ordering more than just one. Dinner entrées are authentically French and impossibly delicious. Pates aux Fruites de Mer (tagliatelle pasta, spring peas, Acadian Bay scallops, Gulf shrimp, Maine calamari and white wine cream sauce), Arctic Char Barigoule (roasted Arctic char, artichoke, tomato confit & fennel bulb and tomato coriander vinaigrette) and the Tournedos au Poivre (twin beef tenderloins, cracked pepper crust and brandied cream mushrooms) are just samples of the rich and full options adorning the impressive menu. Of course no visit to a French restaurant would be complete without indulging in the sinfully rich and equally spectacular desserts. You absolutely must try the Baba au Rhum and the classic crème brulée. After just one meal here I promise you will become a regular customer because everything is worthy of a repeat visit and multiple tastings.
Bistro Niko is located at 3344 Peachtree Rd. 404.261.6456
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October 21, 2010Man of the Hour: One on One with Westime President Greg Simonian
