Upon first glance, this restaurant may look empty on a lovely spring or fall day. But don’t be fooled - everyone is enjoying the beautiful garden in the back. Come to think of it, they are probably enjoying the same garden in the winter months as well.If the weather permits, be sure to take a glass of "vin chaud" - hot red wine - and head outdoors to play Pétanque, a traditional French game with similarities to Bocce. When it gets too cold, come back in and dine on classic French cooking derived from recipes that go back several generations. Owner and executive chef, Claude, grew up in France, and then spent time in South Africa before returning to his homeland to work alongside his dad in his restaurant. In 1998, he ventured out on his own, coming to New York to open Madison Bistro. Thirteen years later, Claude decided to take on a new challenge and open a bistro, with a "modern touch." In memory of his grandparents, Jeanne and Gaston, he has created a menu reminiscent of his favorite recipes from his childhood. When I inquired about their signature dish, there was no hesitation from Jolis, their wonderful manager. "It has to be Le Bourguignon, our braised short ribs in pinot noir reduction." We were a party of four, so of course we ordered the short ribs, as well as steak frites and onion soup, while I treated myself to their French cheese platter and soup. Honestly, I was holding out for dessert, which was a real treat. Chocolate soufflé! On a cold Saturday evening, every table was filled, yet the noise level was perfectly fine. We did venture out back, but it was drizzling, so we chose to come back on another day to play Pétanque.
