Saint-Emilion Offers a Taste of France in Fort Worth

Saint -Emilion is a little bit of France right here in DFW.
Saint -Emilion is a little bit of France right here in DFW.

Photo Credit: Saint-Emilion

There’s is really nothing more soul reviving than getting away for some down time in the French countryside. The glorious sights, aromas, and especially flavors never cease to strip off the stress and restore us to our charming, happy selves. Sadly, France is much to far to do this on a regular basis. We can offer you neither the landscape nor the extended time off but we do know of a spot where you can experience those mouthwatering aromas and indulge in the delectable food without a passport.

Saint-Emilion offers a little French culture and countryside flavor in Fort Worth. Taking its name from the quaint village of Saint-Emilion in southwestern France, this charming restaurant brings classic French cuisine to a city known for its Texas size steaks and smoky barbeque. Owner Bernard Tronche opened Saint-Emilion in 1985, a few years after moving to DFW from his native France, bringing exquisite dishes and an extensive wine list to the area.

The staff at Saint-Emilion is very professional at what they do. Don't hesitate to ask questions -- they'll have the answers
The staff at Saint-Emilion is very professional at what they do. Don’t hesitate to ask questions — they’ll have the answers

Photo Credit: Saint-Emilion

The aged-brick, A-frame building is covered in greenery and looks as if it has been there for centuries and weathered wood shutters add to the charm. Bright yellow umbrellas offer shade for those who choose to enjoy people watching in the courtyard while they eat making the exterior easy to spot amongst the Southwestern influenced buildings in the area with the tall buildings of downtown Fort Worth as a backdrop. Inside the decor will definitely make you think that you’re in a French country inn. Servers are dressed in black with white aprons, tables are covered in crisp, white linens, and black napkins stand tall at each spot. Fresh flowers on the table complete the look.

Classic French dishes like this beautiful duck are plated with creative attention to detail.
Classic French dishes like this beautiful duck are plated with creative attention to detail.

Photo Credit: Saint-Emilion

The plates are everything you would expect when you consider the authentic look of the building itself. Beautifully presented, classic French dishes like succulent wood roasted duck that has been glazed with honey and our current favorite, the maple and sugar tart. The attention to detail in the presentation makes each plate a work of art. The size of the wine list guarantees that you’ll be able to have the perfect wine with your meal. If in doubt just ask — the staff has excellent recommendations.

All in all, if you life within a 50 mile radius of Saint-Emilion it’s well worth the trip. We were a little hesitant about the area but all concerns fell away once we stepped inside. Please do dress for a romantic evening, the atmosphere requires it.