We can all agree that the Eastern Shore is becoming a foodie paradise. Many of us have our favorite haunts that we frequent on a regular basis. But what I long for is a top-drawer casual French bistro–a neighborhood gathering spot.
Here’s what I’m thinking. It’s an unpretentious, cozy welcoming place with vintage décor, a dark wood beamed ceiling, wooden tables, checkered tablecloths, and chalkboard menus. Perhaps Edith Piaf music is playing in the background. Outdoor seating with a terrace and umbrellas would be a delightful plus.
The menu includes high-quality simple traditional French comfort food at reasonable prices.
I’ve clearly thought about this way too much because I’ve developed a menu in my head.
Breakfasts include croissants, quiches, crepes (lemon blueberry is my favorite), baked eggs, fresh fruits, and omelets.
Lunches, of course, feature French onion soup (another favorite). Plus, there would be croque monsieur/madame sandwiches, salad nicoise, quiches, a cassoulet, a simple salmon dish, and steak frites.
Dinner appetizers feature pates, mussels, a charcuterie board, escargot, and a Caesar salad. As a main course, the bistro would offer coq au vin, boeuf Bourguignon, roast chicken, duck a l‘orange, trout Amadine, Dover sole, scallops Provençale, Filet Mignon, and lamb chops.
Scrumptious desserts might include crème Brulé, chocolate mousse, an apple tart, profiteroles, crepe Suzettes, and souffles. And, of course, there would be a selection of French press coffees.
French wines would be offered by the glass and carafe, with some half and full bottles as well. Kir and champagne would be available as aperitifs. And a few selections of Courvoisier and Cognac as after-dinner drinks might also be included.
Service would be relaxed but professional and efficient. The restaurant would be open all day so you could pop in for a casual sandwich, a café au lait, espresso, or simple dessert.
Dear readers, if such an establishment were to appear in your neighborhood, would it be on your list of favorite places to enjoy a casual meal?
Chefs, please hear my plea. Is there anybody out there who could meet this need? I predict you will be a hero, and your bistro will be a major success.
The other night in my dreams, I heard the waiter saying, “Bon Appetit!” And after consuming a delicious meal, I responded, “Merci. Beauoup. C’etait delicieux. Au revoir.” I left the bistro with the song La Vie en Rose echoing in my head, feeling happy, satisfied, and just a little bit French.
Maria Grant, formerly principal-in-charge of the federal human capital practice of an international consulting firm, now focuses on writing, reading, music, bicycling, and nature.
Oui, oui!! A French style bistro would be a fabulous addition to the Easton dining scene.
Christine, thanks for your comment. We should get a movement going!
Let me know when you open this magical place. I’ll be there!
It’s a date!
As a French American, Paris born and raised resident of Easton I could not agree more with your proposal!
Michele, thanks for your support! Let’s make it happen!
The perfect idea! May we make a reservation now?
I wish!
Perfect! You verbalized my Dream Restaurant. I’ll either be first in line or right after you.
Hope someone actually Does this.
See you there!
Mais oui! Quelle bonne idee, merci beaucoup 😘
Merci for your comment!
Yes!
ABSOLUMENT!!!!!!
A cozy spot that teaches French lessons in a corner over coffee and a croissant during non-meal times bringing together French speakers and beginners.
KA, what a great idea! Also how about some French cooking classes?
https://www.galatoires.com/menus/dining-room
Madame, may I suggest you start with a glass of blond Lillet on the rocks with a twist. Try the Fois Gras Appetizer, the Godchaux Salad, and then Shrimp Clemenceau or the Trout Meuniere main dish. I’d think you’ll enjoy Cafe Brulot au flambe tableside. Forget the dessert menu. A Courvoisier will do. You’ll be utterly full after a complete meal at Galatoire’s in New Orleans on Bourbon Street. I know it isn’t “around the corner” near Easton, and I suppose you are aware of it, but I had to plug my favorite restaurant in America.
In response to your request, “Chef Dominic” would be pleased to prepare you and John my all-time favorite Shrimp Clemenceau at your convenience without a trip to Nawlins. You can practice your French with my French-American wife, the lovely and talented Susan during dinner.
Come to think of it, I’ll now pour myself a Courvoisier before bed.
Thanks for the delightful article. Have John e-mail me if y’all are interested.
Best regards,
Chef D, Mickey Terrone
Mickey, thanks for writing. Your New Orleans restaurant is now definitely on my list. Love your menu suggestions. And we will definitely be in touch. Your dinner menu offer sounds amazing. How can we make this French bistro in Easton happen? Read the comments. It would definitely become a favorite haunt.
Yes! A French bistro would be the perfect addition to our vibrant restaurant scene — something along the lines of Benoit Paris!
Holly, thanks for writing. I will check out Benoit Paris!
I totally agree! And should you ever visit Columbus, Ohio, we have such a restaurant with the items you mentioned…La Chatelaine! A favorite for casually elegant dining!
Susan, thanks for writing. I’m going to check out the menu of La Chatelaine.
This is a great idea. I so miss L’Auberge Chez Francois in Northern,Va.Their Alsatian cuisine is terrific.
Glenn, I agree. That is a fantastic restaurant
Yes, some Alsatian offerings, namely Tarte Flambee, with creme fraiche, onions and bacon!