The third Dine Out ’09 was at Trafalgars Bistro. I was first intrigued by a dinner invitation that didn't come through. I became interested in its menu. After hearing from a friend that it's her best Dine Out in 2008, I decided to give it a try.
On Food
I must say, the food was awesome. The mussels in the appetizer were of decent size and it's fresh. The broth was excellent with the bacon. Scallops were seared well too. The lamb shank was tender although I found the pearl barley risotto a bit too chewy. Both desserts were great. Chocolate obsession was a smooth truffle and the Lime Raspberry Flan was tart (but not sour). I really enjoyed the dinner that evening.
On Presentation
Because it's a neighbourhood bistro, the presentation was simple - but in a good way. You can't dress up dishes when the presentation doesn't fit your "brand". It's down to earth but it works well with the restaurant..
On Environment
The restaurant is small and cozy. I realized that it's mostly 2-people tables, with perhaps a handful of 4-people tables and that's it. I wonder if it can accommodate a bigger dining group.
On View
Because it's a neighbourhood bistro, it's expected to not as good of a view as you may find at restaurants by the water. I think it's still great that you got a bit of street view of a residence neighbourhood. Something you wouldn't get in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
On Service
The service was very good. We were welcomed by two servers, with a man (presumably the owner or manager) behind the bar suggesting that we should get a prize for arriving on time. Not that we did get a prize, but the thought of it still amused me. Throughout the evening, the servers were quite attentive, although one of the servers seemed to be lost at times. She promised to get us water and she never did. On the other hand, whenever they brought us the dishes, or collected the dirty dishes afterwards, they would say thank you - which I thought was a nice touch.
Trafalgars Bistro
Food: 9
Presentation: 8.5
Environment: 8
View: 7
Service: 9
Overall: 8.3
Photos
Appetizer: Qualicum Beach Scallops with Pommes Puree and Haricot Verts
Appetizer: BC Mussels in Leek and Double Smoked Bacon Broth
Entree: Bison Fettuccini Bolognese with Ground Bison and Tomato Sauce
Entree: Braised Lamb Shank with Pearl Barley Risotto, Natural Jus and Root Vegetables
Dessert: Chocolate Obsession
Dessert: Lime Raspberry Flan
Decor: A small, cozy restaurant
