Although there are a number of ‘Le Bistrot Pierre’s in the UK, they are a chain which does a good impression of an independent French restaurant. The reason Nottingham’s Bistrot feels so unique could be to do with the fact it was the first to open, making it particularly special. I initially noticed this restaurant because of its central location, and elegant exterior. Special menus were advertised in the window, with pictures of delicious meals which intrigued me, so I had to visit for a taste.
This restaurant has done well to capture the French theme, with a large wine rack and French artwork on the walls. The interior décor, complete with chandeliers and mirrors, makes you feel like you are in a romantic restaurant in Paris!
Traditional French food is exactly what you get here; French items are described in English on the menu, and the dishes are exactly what you would hope to find in a French restaurant. The flavour incorporated into each dish is amazing, and you can order three (or more!) courses knowing that none of them have been added on as an afterthought. Their boeuf bourguingnon is so flavoursome, and the tarte au citron is the best I have ever tasted. The first time I tried a baked Camembert was on a visit to Le Bistrot Pierre, and they did it wonderfully, with toasted French bread and a delicious relish.
On one of my (several) visits here, my boyfriend and I decided to go for the ‘soirée gastronomique’ menu. This is a set menu of six courses, which is served on specific days of the month. You can choose from two main courses, but the rest of the courses are set, and the menu varies depending on the day. It was such an enjoyable meal; the starters weren’t so overwhelming that we were unable to eat the meal, and the final course was coffee and chocolate to finish off a delicious dinner. If you enjoy French food, the set menu is really fun to try, at the price of £22.95.
I think the pricing at Le Bistrot Pierre is fair, as it is such good quality, and I somewhere I would go for a treat. So far my visits have each only been with one other person, and I think it is a nice environment for a quiet chat, but I have seen larger groups visiting for celebrations on special occasions.
It’s definitely somewhere you should book, as it is very popular!
Best: authentic flavour, delicious menu.
Worst: postcode does not lead to restaurant! We got very lost on first visit.
Photograph: Instagram, @olgatron89