With it being a few months before my holiday to France, a visit to French-themed restaurant Bistrot Pierre seemed like a good idea. While Ilkley might not be Bordeaux, the atmosphere as I entered the restaurant had a certain rustic charm and offered a warm welcome.
Bistrot Pierre have tried to replicate the French atmosphere and standard of service and food in their restaurants. The Ilkley branch looks like a standalone restaurant and I would never have guessed it was part of a chain.
Gallic gastronomy
Being a big fan of French bread, choosing my starter was an easy decision. The term ‘bread board’ made it sound like a selection of bread would be served, however, and what arrived was a sourdough baguette served with Maldon sea salt. While the bread was hot and not too doughy, in France sourdough is not as popular as in this country; also, I’ve never seen sea salt served with bread while dining in France.
Chicken Normandy, a pan-fried chicken breast served with Toulouse sausage, caramelised apples, dauphinoise potatoes, cabolo Nero, crispy onions and Calvados juice felt far more authentic than my starter. The tender chicken and other ingredients complemented each other in a dish that was just as good as any I have eaten in Normandy itself.
Keeping things French, it only seemed right to sample the fromage du jour. The cheese board came with a rustic-tasting Camembert, a tangy Le Saint Flour Bleu and a strong-tasting Saint Mont des Alpes. I would have preferred the cheese to have been served slightly warmer, at room temperature, to let the flavour flow more freely. An unusual touch was the bread that was served, as opposed to cheese biscuits.
The wine list, as you might expect, includes a good selection of French vintages, though as I was driving and dining solo I decided to drink just table water, as many do when dining in France.
Access for all
The restaurant is easily accessible for all with just two small steps to negotiate at the entrance, which is situated on the ground floor of the Crescent Hotel. A disabled toilet is available via a radar key.
Bistro Pierre in Ilkley
Service was attentive throughout and not obtrusive. Until 9 February the restaurant is offering 30% off the A La Carte menu, enfants menu and the Menu Complet Breakfast, available Sunday to Friday.
The restaurant is one I would visit again, though with Bordeaux calling, it might just have to wait a little while. À plus tard (see you later), as they say in France!
Bread board £3.95, chicken Normandy £16.95, fromage du jour £7.50
Bistrot Pierre, The Crescent Hotel, Brooke Street, Ilkley, LS29 8DG
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