Bites Nearby: Bistro de la Gare

Overview: Formerly an antique shop and still maintaining its quaint demeanor, is known for its fine French cuisine. Situated on the corner of Meridian and El Centro, directly next door to (another French eatery), Bistro de la Gare is ideal for a romantic evening meal or a decadent weekend lunch.

Décor: During the day, the light from tall French windows floods the dining room and balances out the deep, red hue of the walls. The wooden bar and tables add a country-rustic feel to the place and at dinnertime, candlelight illuminates the walls. Antique French posters, black and white photos, and French street signs hang on the walls above the tables draped in white linens; truly the kind of bistro you’d find tucked away on a side street in Paris.

The Drinks: With aperitifs, a variety of wines and even a few beers, Bistro de la Gare has a decent selection of drinks to choose from. Choose from a complex and fairly pricey list of French wines (think: a robust and woody, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape) or stick with something closer to home such as a Chardonnay from Monterey. If you’re craving a bit of bubbly, try a Kir Royal or a simple glass of French champagne. And don’t forget to finish off your meal with a bit of “vin dessert,” or dessert wine.

Appetizers/Soups & Salads: Without a doubt, the Gratinée a L’Oignon ($6.95) is a hit. What could be better than a sweet onion soup covered in savory layers of Gruyere cheese?  If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the Salad de Chevre Chaud; baby mixed greens tossed in a rich balsamic vinaigrette and topped with warm Goat Cheese toast ($8.95). The Salade Caesar ($5.95) is equally delicious, and tossed in a tangy, anchovy dressing that is sure to please your palette.

Entrees: For a light but decadent lunch, try one of Bistro de la Gare’s outstanding quiches. Order a slice of Spinach Quiche ($8.50) with a side of mixed greens and be mentally transported to a Parisian café. Or try out their Quiche Lorraine, “The Creamiest Bacon & Ham Quiche in South Pasadena” ($8.50), a bold, but true statement. For dinner, indulge in Le Classic Steak Frites a “La Parisienne,” top sirloin steak with garlic parsley butter served with French fries ($15.50). 

Petit déjeuner at Bistro de la Gare is simple yet gourmet; standard protocol for French breakfasts. Sip a cappuccino or latte ($3.50/$3.25) and choose from a variety of sweet and/or savory croissants ranging in price from $1.95-$2.50. If you’re craving a more Americanized version of the French breakfast, order Eggs Benedict, English muffins topped with Canadian bacon, two poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce ($9.95), or go for the egg and vanilla battered “Frenchy” toast ($7.95).

Service: The dining room is quite small, so I'd recommend making reservations if you don't want to wait. The servers are extremely responsive, their charming French accents only adding to the authenticity of the dining experience.

Address: 921 Meridian Ave., South Pasadena
Phone: (626) 799-8828
Chef: Michel Lingani
Cost: $$