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DINNER BRUNCH & LUNCH One of my favorite places to eat here in the North Willamette Valley is Bistro Maison in Mcminnville. The restaurant is owned by the Chatelards, French chef Jean-Jacques and his American wife, Deborah. As the name describes, this is true French bistro cuisine and is served in more than ample quantities at very reasonable prices. The lunch and dinner menus have a number of items in common, with the dinner menu naturally more extensive and higher priced (but still a bargain). At lunch two wonderful salads are offered, the Bouqet de Mesclin Panache at $5, and my favorite, Salad du Vigneron at $7. It is comprised of roasted red beets, endive, goat cheese and local walnuts. The Soupe A L’oignon Gratinee (French Onion Soup) at $6 as well as the chef’s homemade paté at $5 are also excellent starter courses.
Lunch entrées include hanger steak ($12), Croque Monsieur ($9), Roasted Oregon Salmon ($11), Coq au Vin ($10), and my favorite, Mussels in White Wine served with THE BEST EVER French fries. The fries are served piping hot in a little galvanized metal bucket that keeps them that way. The dinner menu begins with the two salads mentioned previously as well as a delicious Salad Frisee aux Landons (warm frisee, bacon, Oregon blue cheese and croutons). The Soup de Poisson Provencale (fish soup with croutons and aouille) is absolutely delicious and not to be missed. The complex flavors, set off with a dollop of pernod, makes for one of the best fish soups I’ve ever eaten. Other starters include escargot, fondue, sautéed wild mushrooms, and mussels served in your choice of three sauce preparations at $17. The entrées include Steak Tartare ($18), Duck Confit ($18) and Steak au Poivre (market), and a daily Plat du Jour. If Wednesday evening finds me at Bistro Maison, it’s Pot au Feu! A huge portion of braised short ribs, root vegetables and bone marrow slowly cooked to bring out all of the great flavors. Other daily entrée selections are Choucroute Garnie, Bouillabaise, Cous Cous “Royal” and Cassoulet – all at $18.
The wine list has a good representation of North Willamette Valley wines, including Domaine Serene Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Lesser known French wines, such as those from Minervois, Cahors and Vaucluse, are well selected and reasonably priced. Some Burgundy and Washington State wines are also available. Indoor dining is charming and comfortable, country French. The outdoor patio is completely surrounded by green shrubbery, providing a lovely and sheltered al fresco experience. When you visit Bistro Maison Deborah or Jean-Jacques will greet you at the door with a warm welcome. The small well-trained staff is attentive, courteous, and very pleasant. To make a reservation, call (503) 474-1888. You’ll be glad that you did! – Ken Evenstad |
As for desserts, I stick with the basics: Tarte Tartin ($6) and Profiteroles au Chocolat ($6), two classic bistro staples.| [Our Wines][Events][Our Vineyards][About Us][Tours][Awards][Winery Update][Contact Us][Purchase][Trade] |
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6555 N.E. Hilltop Lane, Dayton, OR 97114 - Phone: 1-503-864-4600 |
