Bistro 82 Review

It had been way too long since we met up with some friends for dinner, but with everyone’s busy schedules and the terrible weather we have had, I kind of got into a hibernation routine. Summer means getting back out and about and enjoying life and the nice weather while it is here. So Mom, Dad, and I met up with our friends, Linda and Dick at Bistro 82, a relatively new restaurant in Royal Oak.

It is a beautiful restaurant. It is bright, fresh, and clean looking, always good signs in a restaurant. The décor is modern and elegant. Because the evening was so nice, the doors to the restaurant were open, yet it was not buggy or too hot. We were seated in a private dining room that is open on the weekends. This was the perfect place to sit, as it was quiet and secluded, allowing us to enjoy each other’s company and the conversation.
Our waiter Ivan greeted us promptly and took our drink orders. What’s really cool is that instead of paper menus, they have iPads with pictures of all the dishes! Before we knew it, it was time for appetizers. Dad ordered the poutine, which was a huge hit at the table. It’s not traditional poutine, but instead made with polenta fries and shredded beef, along with white cheddar. The presentation is nice too in a little cast iron skillet. The other appetizer of calamari was not a hit with the table, though the side salad was nice.

Then it came time for the entrees. The restaurant does not offer a bread basket, not that I minded (hello empty calories), but they do have homemade croissants. They were thoroughly enjoyed by Linda and Dick. Mom, Dad, and Dick all ordered the Wagyu hanger steak. It was served with maître d’butter, French fries, and béarnaise, along with another sauce on the plate. Dad and Dick really enjoyed the steak, but Mom and I thought it was a bit tough. The French fries were spectacular, some of the best I’ve had in awhile, though I am not sure why they put sauce on the plate, as that made a lot of them soggy. Linda ordered the Scottish salmon and was very pleased with it, especially the potatoes and vegetables it was served with. I ordered the butter lettuce salad with the apple vinaigrette. It was outstanding. I loved it and ate every bit, including the soft boiled egg, as we were assured the restaurant uses pasteurized eggs. I really respect restaurants that take food safety seriously. I also ordered the grilled asparagus and loved it. The char flavor was perfect!

Of course we couldn’t leave without ordering dessert. We got two orders of beignets for the table, and I am so glad we did. They were outstanding. Perhaps not traditional beignets, they were soft and hollow on the inside with a crunchy sugar crust and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar. Plus, they were so hot when they came out. Bruleed bananas and salted caramel sauce accompanied them. My only regret is that we didn’t get one more order! If you go to Bistro 82, you have to check out the beignets!

Service was friendly and prompt, and all of our questions and concerns were addressed. The food was pretty good, the restaurant gorgeous, and the night beautiful. A walk around downtown Royal Oak rounded out the evening. It was wonderful, and I hope to have many more nights like it in the future.