If you think affordable French cuisine in Boston is a contradiction in terms, then think again. Petit Robert Bistro, in the heart of Kenmore Square, serves up authentic French fare that won't break the bank.
SERVICE: The waitstaff, many of whom are actually French, are knowledgeable, which makes up for the sometimes escargot-like service. We always opt to make a reservation in advance, seeing as this place fills up very quickly on weekends. I definitely recommend calling ahead!
Be prepared to enjoy a leisurely meal. You will not be rushed, even if you'd prefer to be. We ate there this past Saturday, and our entrees did take quite a while to come out; our server brought us plenty of warm bread while we waited, however. Hubby and I didn't mind, since we had nowhere else to be.
DECOR: The milieu is cozy French bistro. There is limited outside dining in warmer weather. This small restaurant has two floors, and if you're seated on the top floor, you'll have a direct view of the bustling action inside the kitchen.
COCKTAILS: Hubby usually opts for a dirty Grey Goose martini ($10). As for me, I've never met a heavy pour I didn't love, and $8 at Petit Robert will buy you a robust glass of Sauvignon Blanc. There are also a number of fun, fruity signature cocktails on the menu.
STARTERS: The menu offers savory soups and delectable salads, all of which are well under $10. Needless to say, I've never tried the Crispy Calf's Brains. But I have tried the Moules Marinières. The mussels were a little sandy and the flavor was rather bland; so I'm not sure I'd order it again.
ENTREES: In my experience, the food comes out piping hot, which I consider a lovely thing. Back in my carnivorous days, I delighted in the roasted half chicken with natural jus. At $14.75, this scrumptious dish is an amazing value, and extremely satisfying. My latest obsession would be the pan seared scallops with creamy crab and endive sauce ($19.25). These scallops are perfectly seared and the taste is wondrous and slightly salty. I have daydreams about this dish. It's heaven on a plate. Hubby is a fan of the duck confit and grilled sausage with braised cabbage ($16.75). He's ordered it several times now, which leads me to believe it's the stuff his dreams are made of, too.
DESSERT: Sadly, by the time dessert rolls around I have usually gorged myself to capacity. Therefore I've never sampled any of the tasty sounding items from the pastry menu. One of these days I'll wise up and remember to save room.
THE BROAD'S VERDICT: In the Fenway/Kenmore area, food tends to be aimed at either college students or tourists (ie: low quality or ridiculously overpriced). Either way, I am usually left feeling bitter and disillusioned. Not so with this place. Petit Robert offers flavorful, high quality French cuisine at surprisingly reasonable prices. (Every delicious entree is under $20.) While the service can be somewhat unpredictable, I enjoy the romantic atmosphere and find the food to be consistently excellent. You will certainly get your dollar's worth. I have yet to leave there not feeling blissfully satisfied. Therefore, the broad gives this eatery: 3 glasses of Riesling.
I want to try this place, and I think there might be a second location in the South End!
Posted by: Keely | March 08, 2010 at 11:49 AM
Yes! There's a location on Columbus Ave in the S. End, and also one in Needham. I've only ever been to the Kenmore location. It's delish!
Now I want those scallops again. xoxo
Posted by: the odd broad | March 08, 2010 at 12:27 PM