Cuisine:

• Bar
• Contemporary
• French

Bijou Restaurant & Bar Description:
Bijou's bold geometric shapes, glossy surfaces and neon lights are all hipness, as is the diverse clientele. High ceilings open up the dim space, and a chain mail curtain separating the swanky bar and lounge from the main dining room lets music and conversation flow back and forth. Such atmosphere could put one in the mood for outrageous modern small plates or the latest in molecular gastronomy, which is why Bijou's very classic French menu can feel like a non sequitur. The standards are all here (French onion soup, steamed mussels, pork chop à l'orange) and though chef Christian Nam-Hee doesn't take many risks on the menu, his dishes offer satisfying comfort. Sauces and seasonings need honing, but the textures at Bijou are spot-on, from velvety foie gras on baguette to mini burgers moistened with fried quail egg. The sea bass in mushroom sauce is so earthy and rich that it could pass for meat, and a good filet mignon comes with light-as-air mashed potatoes that give off puffs of garlicky perfume. There's a dessert to please any sweet tooth, including house-made macarons and a not-too-sweet mascarpone and ricotta cheesecake. The cocktail selection reveals Bijou's playful side, while the wine list complements the menu and friendly service elevates the meal.


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