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WILKES-BARRE — I’ve driven past Le Manhattan Bistro hundreds of times and I’ve always admired the building. Now, after dining at the French restaurant, I admire it even more.
When we walked through the doors at Le Manhattan Bistro, we were greeted by our host, Patrick, who checked our coats in and took us to our seats. As soon as we sat down I told my dinner companion that I felt like I was in New York City.
The restaurant, formally a bank building, has the most charming layout. High ceilings, exposed brick, hardwood floors, and unique artwork. A wine room, formally the bank building’s vault, is decorated with more unique artwork and is stocked with a variety of wines. You have to see it.
We were given a quick tour of the restaurant. Our server, Jessica showed us the dining room and told us that they have French Movie Nights on Mondays.
Check their website www.lemanhattanbistro.com for the schedule.
After our tour was over, we sat down at our table and looked over the menu.
Jessica stopped over to say hello and to ask if we were ready to order. We started with drinks, a glass of Riesling for me and an Old Fashioned for my date.
I have to say that I’m a simple girl and dining at Le Manhattan Bistro intimidated me at first. I’ve always wanted to go there, but new things scare me. All of my fears aside, I’m so glad I took the plunge.
After glancing at the menu, I was immediately drawn to the Burgundy Escargot, something I’ve never tried before.
My three years of high school French was a bit rusty, but I know Escargot means snails and it’s something that I’ve always been curious about. I was convinced after Patrick, our host, came over to recommend them.
Our Burgundy Escargot dish was brought out, it sizzled and popped as our server set it down in front of us. The Escargot
were covered in a delicious garlic and herb butter, perfect for dipping our bread after we’d finished the appetizer.
Are you curious about the Escargot?
It was great. If you’ve never had the dish before, you totally should. The best description of the flavor and texture would be a pleasant combination of a clam and a chicken, but you’ll have to try it for yourself.
For the main course, I ordered the Beef Bourguignon, a braised beef stew in red wine. The melt-in-your-mouth beef was marinated for 24 hours and was accompanied by thick pieces of bacon, carrots, mushrooms and onions. I was so excited when I got to the center of my meal and found a serving of mashed potatoes. The dish was incredible, the perfect meal to have on a chilly winter night.
My dinner date ordered the Duck Confit, a hearty sized duck leg over garlic and herb potatoes and frisee lettuce. The duck was crispy (and smelled amazing) and the garlic and herb potatoes complimented the dish.
During our dinner Jessica and Patrick brought us two glasses of wine, a glass of Cabernet for me and Pinot Noir for my date.
The Cabernet was a great pairing with the Beef Bourguignon.
At the end of our meal, we were so full we didn’t have room for dessert, but Jessica recommends the creme brulee.
If you don’t have reservations for Valentine’s Day, give Le Manhattan Bistro a call (there’s still time), try something new and enjoy the atmosphere. You won’t regret it.
