One summer during college, I studied abroad in Florence. Everything from the culture to the architecture to the food was incredible. And one of the things that stood out to me the most were the “piazzas,” which loosely translates to public squares or plazas. Something about the restaurants in those piazzas were just so open and friendly… so European. I loved sitting at the different cafes sipping on an espresso (or glass of wine!) And while, sadly, I am no longer living in Italy, I’m able to get that same feeling at Le Bilboquet.
Le Bilboquet is a beautiful French bistro at the center of The Shops at Buckhead Atlanta. And while it’s French, not Italian, it still has that charming, European feel. So, last weekend I stopped by for lunch to see how it compared to my beloved Italian piazzas.
In case you weren’t aware, Le Bilboquet has a “Saturday party” each week from 1-5 pm! It’s pretty much normal restaurant service plus a DJ. It’s definitely a great way to spend a beautiful Saturday afternoon. And on that note: If the weather is nice, you have to ask for a patio seat! The outside seating at Le Bilboquet is the best.
I started off the meal with “Le Planche de Charcuterie et Fromages,” aka the cheese and charcuterie board! I sort of have an obsession with meats and cheeses—I mean, what’s not to love? And you know you can always trust a French restaurant to do it well.
Once I had licked the board clean, it was time for the next course. I decided to sample a few hors d’oeuvres instead of going for an entrée—I love tasting a few different things! I opted for the crispy octopus with chickpeas and the mushroom risotto. While I waited for the food to arrive, I sipped on a flute of champagne. And I must say… I felt quite European!
The octopus was perfectly cooked and the chickpeas added a great taste and texture. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, I tried the risotto. If you only get one thing on the menu, get the risotto!!! Creamy and flavorful, but not overly rich. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!
So maybe it’s not Florence… But hey, I love Atlanta. And Le Bilboquet does a great job of emulating the Parisian atmosphere. Have you eaten at Le Bilboquet yet?