This meant, unfortunately, we did not save room for dessert.ĭescription: Upscale dining in a rustic setting Each serving was more than ample, and we savored every bite. Except for the ravioli, our orders were beautifully plated, although technically everything came in a bowl. Nightly specials are featured, and a handful of starters are on the menu. The only thing missing was hard-crusted bread to soak up the sauce. Round, coaster-size pillows of pasta are stuffed with lobster pieces and bathed in rich, creamy, slightly sweet lobster bisque. Less visually appealing, but just as exquisite in flavor is the lobster ravioli ($30). The flakey mild fish and mango (a fruit that to me always suggests a combination of pineapple, orange and peach in a single bite) should also be a contender for some kind of cooking award. It, too, is served over sticky street rice noodles. thanks to the sweet mango chutney topped with a nasturtium flower and asparagus spears. The miso-glazed mahi mahi ($28) is colorful. It's not simply a few pieces of meat on an overabundance of noodles. Rest assured the meat-to-noodle-ratio is impressive. The soy sauce-based marinade provides salty and sweet characteristics.
The different textures further enhance the dish. This covers a bowl filled with rice noodles, sliced cabbage, diced green onions and peanuts sprinkled throughout. This is identified as the bistro's "Food Network's Award-Winning Bulgogi Steak." Although it seems out of place, this is something not to miss.Ī generous serving of thinly sliced tender pieces of marinated beef is topped with a fried egg drizzled with Sriracha sauce. The menu is not extensive, but it is varied: seafood, pasta, chicken, pork chops, a lamb special and Korean sticky street noodles with bulgogi steak ($21). It was loud, but everyone appeared to be happy, which says a lot. Music was barely noticeable in the bar and conversations at tables, ours at least, required speaking louder than usual indoor voices.
It could be quieter, or you might have to contend with traffic sounds from Shoup Road near Black Forest Road. If the weather cooperates, consider dining al fresco. Because Black Forest Bistro is only open three evenings a week, reservations are recommended.