Chefs de France or Bistro de Paris?

[TigerKat]

We've never been to either Chefs de France or Bistro de Paris and would like to try one of them. Anyone been to both? Please let me know your opinions on them and the differences between the two. If you've only been to one of them please let me know what you liked or disliked about it. Thanks!!

 

[tampaguys]

These two restaurants could not be more different.

Les Chefs is a large restaurant made for the general public, which means that it is a VERY watered down version of French food which would appeal to the tastes of most North Americans.

Bistro is a small, elegant restaurant which serves authentic French cuisine. There is a recent thread about Bistro at http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1316834. I recommend you read it, since it might help you decide if Bistro is for you.

 

[TigerKat]

Anyone else with an opinion on either?

 

[bavaria]

I'm in total agreement with tampaguys - Chefs is very homogenized menu/flavours. Bistro de Paris however is amazing, but not to everyone's taste.

I have had one of the best meals I have ever eaten in America at Bistro de Paris.

 

[Leota]

I haven't done Bistro yet, but intend to.

I can tell you that I found Chefs to be a huge disappointment. It was very Americanized. That's fine, if that's what you like or aren't expecting authentic French cuisine. Since I was trained in Classic & Noveau French Cuisine, I didn't enjoy the watered-down meal that I had. Many here love it, tho. It is a gorgeous atmosphere & the desserts are divine.

I am very hopeful based on the thread that Tampaguys referenced, that I will have a better experience at Bistro.

 

[webray]

Like everyone else has said, these restaurants are very different.

Chefs, larger great for adults traveling with children. Food and service are good.

Le Bistro, very small, intimate, wonderful food and service. Plan on the meal taking 2-3 hours and we spend more here than we do at Victoria and Alberts.

 

[patsal]

I'm not the OP but I am glad to know this information. SO for just DH and I Bistro, but with the kids Chefs would be a better fit--thanks!

 

[BillSears]

Le Bistro, very small, intimate, wonderful food and service. Plan on the meal taking 2-3 hours and we spend more here than we do at Victoria and Alberts.

2-3 hours? I guess I better make an early reservation if I want to watch Illuminations.

 

[TigerKat]

Like everyone else has said, these restaurants are very different.

Chefs, larger great for adults traveling with children. Food and service are good.

Le Bistro, very small, intimate, wonderful food and service. Plan on the meal taking 2-3 hours and we spend more here than we do at Victoria and Alberts.

Yikes! Since we plan on doing Blue Zoo too I may have to re-think this one.

 

[MadToad]

Not to sound like the proverbial broken record, but I have to echo what's been said. Both are very different. My opinion would be that if you're looking for something quieter / more romantic, then go with the Bistro. If you want something more family oriented, try Chef's.

We've eaten in, and enjoyed both. Good luck with your decision!

 

[mroehl2]

The Bistro is upstairs and is wonderful to watch the fireworks. The food is to die for if you are a French food lover and a upscale atmosphere. Our meal (my sister and I) was lengthy but no 2-3 hours. I would say no longer than 2 hours, but definately not shorter than an hour and 1/2 either. Les Chefs (downstairs) is for more the family atmosphere. I've been there twice. The first time (2005) was wonderful (great filet mignon, french onion soup, french cheese plate, wine)...but the last time (2006) (top sirloin, cheese plate, frites, wine)...it was just ok. But the deciding factor is this...how long can your kids sit? We are going in March and we will probably still go to Les Chefs...just because our DD is only 3 1/2. Have fun and enjoy!

 

[huggiebear23]

I went to Chefs last year and was VERY Disapointed. I live in NY so it was not up to par at all.

 

[TigerKat]

Thanks for all of the responses guys - Bistro sounds too good to pass up!!