We recently saw a friend's post on Facebook about how wonderful La Cote d'Or was and remarked that it was years, actually decades since we last visited this teeny French bistro on the Arlington/Falls Church line, a mere 15 minutes from our home.
We arranged to meet a friend there for dinner last night and needless to say, with the post snow apocalypse, there were two other occupied tables: one couple that left about 30 minutes after we arrived (they were on the early bird special for $30!) and one woman who apparently comes in multiple times each week! We reviewed the menus and there were many wonderful choices for a la carte as well as super fixed-price 3-course menus at $40, $50 and $60 including vegetarian and vegan options! This is indeed a lot of options for such a tiny place. The tables are cozy, but not too close and the atmosphere is warm and homey. Jorge and the servers are friendly and helpful, and Chef Jacques even came out to chat with us. He is a gem, and we were so impressed with ALL the food that we know we will be back.
We heard the early bird couple mention special wine night Tuesday and quickly ordered the $28 bottle of Domaine de las Bastide 2023 Cotes du Rhone, a red blend that goes so well with everything; indeed, we polished off nearly two bottles. The French bread arrived and was warm, crusty and irresistible! I only wish the butter was a tad softer.
We all ordered the French Onion Soup Gratinee that was simply perfect on this frigid wintry night. The Swiss cheese was gooey and browned to perfection and the beef stock was loaded with yummy, caramelized onions.
Calves' Liver is one of my favorites and two of us ordered the Lyonnaise style dish again smothered in caramelized onions and served with potatoes, an adorable potato puff, a fabulous stuffed mushroom and ratatouille. The Steak Tartare is only available as a main course and when it arrived with the side of Frites, Will was amazed as it must have been a pound of gorgeously seasoned and hashed meat. The meat had a great mustard accent and was really excellent. I only wish it was on the menu as an appetizer!!
Dessert is included in the3-course meals and was delish, but also large portions. The Poires Belle Helene was a special with poached pears in red wine sauce and I loved the Isles Flotantes (Floating Islands) made of light fluffy meringue on a sea of Creme Anglaise. Will ordered is Apple Tarte Tatin to go as he was so full from the tartare!
We felt like we were back in Bordeaux and really loved the kind, welcoming and friendly service as well as the amazing bistro food that La Cote d'Or delivers!
