Such a cute, quaint picturesque restaurant right in the middle of little town South Pas. Takes you back to France, with patrons dining outside on the sidewalk. Food is much better than I remembered - but still pricey for our little town. The star of the night was the butter salad with fresh tomatoes and avocado with a champagne vinaigrette - sounds so simple but the dressing really makes the dish. French onion soup a bit pricey $18...for a soup, but tasty. the escargot - was good but would likely pass next time. And the duck confit - the sauce was divine. All in all - a lovely Friday night dining experience. One thing that brought this down was when my daughter went inside to use the restroom, one of the servers (not ours - a young lad) aggressively said to my teenage daughter - restrooms are for customers only. My daughter was a bit taken aback - she was rattled for a few minutes after - since she was like geez, what's going on? It's not like she was dressed inappropriately. So in the future - may be better to inform the staff to speak a bit more in a customer centric tone. Otherwise - lovely wine, great service otherwise. read more

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All of the staff were incredibly friendly to us, which is always something we really appreciate when we're dining out. They made us feel very welcomed and we enjoyed being there. The food was VERY good. So much flavor in everything, and loved the presentation / plating. It was clear to see that they care about these things which made each plate feel special. They have a very very long list of specials, so just a heads up, expect to have many more options to choose from that aren't even listed on the menu. When we were there, they had a few different fish specials, steaks, a seafood risotto, and a bunch of others that I can't remember. We ordered the Moules Marinières (mussels) but requested to have it as our appetizer which they were happy to do for us. The broth was exquisite. We didn't even leave a drop behind. It came with a large portion of mussels and great French fries that were nice and crispy. To pair with this dish, we also ordered bread which I believe was $8. The bread went really well with the broth. For our entrees my wife had the Magret de Canard Roti (seared duck breast) which was cooked perfectly med-rare. I tried a bite and was really impressed. So much flavor, and the skin was crispy. I ordered the Braised Lamb Shank which was soooo good. I loved the way that it was plated, deboned, and with tons of gravy. The mashed potato puree was very flavorful and buttery. I would absolutely order this again. For dessert, we got the Tarte Tatin (apple tart with ice cream). It came very nicely plated, and a large portion too. The tart itself was kind of cold-ish, and while it was very tasty, we had expected a tart like this to be served warm as if it just came out of the oven. Presentation was really nice, and honestly it was still really really good, but yes I think it would have been better if it was served warmer. Didn't stop us from devouring it though haha. Overall we really loved this restaurant and look forward to coming back again sometime. read more

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VIBES. This local spot has them in abundance. I love french food. I loved working at a french restaurant. I love going to france. I minored in french in college. ...but this place is more than just Francophile pandering, the LOCAL VIBES. SUUUPER GOOD steak frites, an absolute staple. Magical chill spot for a relaxing dinner. My wife and I go here to relax after a long day. The food is consistently stellar. Note to all idiots: the slow service is on purpose. If you want to be in n out, go to in n out. Note the timing. Was there a pause between dishes? Was the pause between that and your next dish the same? OMG I just figured something out about restaurant service. Good work. Good for you. read more

This is a pretty nice and cozy restaurant. I was surprised to see the owner or head chef checking on the guess he invited us into the restaurant.Overall.It reminds me of a restaurant that would be in france.A little cozy place that people walk by and get invited by the cook. So we decided to go on in and have dinner. It was pretty cozy as in the main room.They were watching the soccer game, and it felt like family was just having dinner.And watching a game . Overall, all of the dishes we had were delicious and you could tell that they pick fresh ingredients from the local markets. You have in the restaurant. The lamb was tender and full of flavor and how it was marinated.And served. The steak was perfectly cooked.I had a medium rare and was juicy. This year duck had a lot of flavor and was tender. Overall, the service, the atmosphere, it was top class. read more

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Definitely a hidden gem in South Pas! The interior has a Parisian bistro vibe, so cozy and inviting. The service was friendly, the ambiance was lovely, and everything is farm-to-table, so you can really taste the freshness in every dish. I'm a huge fan of foie gras, and I absolutely loved it here. You might call me crazy, but we tried three dishes with foie gras. We started with the foie gras appetizer, it's unlike ordinary liver pâté, it was soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth. A good foie gras is like caviar or Japanese A5 wagyu, yes it's pure indulgence. We also tried foie gras in pasta and burgers, and both were flavorful. In my opinion, the best way to enjoy it is grilled. Oh so heavenly! We'll definitely be back to try more! read more

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Our first time at Bistro de La Gare, Rex commented to us by our friend. It's a cute place with old town a charm. Hostess was very sweet and friendly, our server was Fong and she was very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. read more

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Five star turnedinto one star after my second visit to this place. I wound never return. Overpriced. Bad service. read more

Bistro de la Gare - a candle and a bottle of wine - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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I gave my wife a series of restaurant suggestions to go to for celebrating Father's Day. After going through several options, my wife decided she wanted to try a new French restaurant, so we went to Bistro de la Gare in South Pasadena. There was abundant street parking on a Sunday evening. I just came with my wife for date night as I already had a family Father's Day lunch earlier that day. The seating is somewhere between casual and upscale, and was a bit warm for a summer day. The staff were mostly nice, but definitely felt slow to respond to our requests at times. The food felt particularly slow to come out. We ended up sharing an appetizer and an entree. We shared a Gratin D'Aubergine (similar to an eggplant parmesan) and also a braised lamb shank. I was surprised the eggplant dish took 15 minutes and then the lamb shank took 45 minutes. The eggplant was quite nice, with marinara sauce and cheese. The braised lamb shank was solid. The lamb was super tender, and the mashed potatoes and sauce were quite flavorful. The bill was quite pricey for the level of food and service. The service was decent, the food was solid, but I was definitely hoping for higher quality food and service for that type of price. Nonetheless, the food is good. read more

Bistro de la Gare - Gratin D'Aubergine - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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Had another wonderful birthday dinner at Bistro de la Gare. Everything there is incredible. Finally tried their "death in the afternoon" champagne cocktail, highly recommend. Next time we have to remember to order the filet mignon tartare ahead of time, it's one of our favorites. Such a lovely evening. read more

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De la Gare often refers to establishments near a train station and this one is just steps away from the Metro Gold Line stop. A friend of mine raves about this place, and it's been on my list. This charming little French-Italian restaurant offers fine dining in a casual setting. The décor gives off Parisian vibes with its European inspired artwork, French windows, and potted plants in the windowsills. Chef/owner Bruno Morin prepares dishes using organic ingredients selected from the local Farmer's market, which is held weekly outside the front door. My friend and I sat at the bar and ordered drinks while we contemplated what to eat. I decided to try the Une Nuit A St Germain - a Lychee Martini that was light & refreshing. Lorena, the darling bartender, recommended the Horse Soldier Bourbon, so my friend had that on the rocks. While sipping our cocktails, a regular sat next to us at the bar. We started an pleasant conversation with her. The food smelled wonderful, and I noticed how artfully presented each item was as it went by. Unfortunately it was a bit busy, so we opted to skip dinner and had another drink instead. This time I requested a French 75, which was very good. Even though I didn't get to try the food, I made a new friend. Everything in life happens for a reason. My original plans changed, so I ended up at the Bistro. She just got back in town and was going to go somewhere else but decided to come here instead. We both agreed that we'd come back at an earlier time and enjoy a delightful feast. *Street parking Corkage Fee: $35 1st bottle, $45 2nd bottle, 3 or more $100 read more

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Well-established neighborhood French bistro has quite a reputation to uphold. Chef-owner Bruno Morin has been serving up his Italian French affair for over 15 years. There have been tweaks and changes to their menu with seasonal ingredients and everyday favorites. Everything is done well. Sauces are on point usually, and dishes are delicious. I recall in years past the cuisine here had a larger French flair. The introduction of Italian-inspired entrees is certainly a new take. There are menu specials that may include accustomed menu items, but I do miss a simple Steak Frite. Portions are fine dining and plated elegantly. There is much care to most everything served. The Escargot is buttery good, and the baguette is a commercial standard. All in all, the French influences are in each dish. The dimly lit dining room with moderate noise is most evenings. Weekend crowds can have lines; thus, reservations are suggested. Pricing is touching into the fine dining realm, and not true to a traditional bistro. On some visits, the question of value may linger on your palette. Parking is street only in a very sedate neighborhood and on a semi-busy Mission Boulevard just adjacent to the Metro Gold Line. read more

Food was good and staff were nice and friendly but service was very slow and poorly planned. Our kids' meal came out fast but had to wait about an hour before our main meals were served despite the fact that they were ordered at the same time. By then our son had already finished eating and was ready to go home. This was for an early dinner on a weekday. It looked like a mistake had happened because numerous tables had been seated after we had ordered but received their food much earlier. Our server was apologetic when our food finally arrived and was well aware that the food was very late but the overall vibe felt like they didn't care all that much. read more

Food was average, nothing great. The appetizers were not impressive. (Cauliflower and dates and Bread with tapenade tasted straight outta Costco). The lamb shank was missing the shank! Should call this dish shredded lamb on a bed of purered potatoes. The service was pretty slow. The ambiance is very nice. read more

For the food being over priced, I'd at least expect the flavor to be there, they also the price you see on the menu isn't the actual price hidden price add ons Server is also really rude and pushy read more

Food was amazing! I had the beets capaccio, liver, escargot. Main entree, steak was cooked perfectly, the sauce was delicious. Clam linguini definition the spot! I ordered fillet fish as well, was going to get it to go for my daughter and end up eating it! read more

Bistro de la Gare - Escargot, Roasted Beet Carpaccio, chicken liver - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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I rarely say "Wow!" more than once at a restaurant. I said Wow 3 times here. The chicken liver mousse, slow cooked duck leg, and apricot financier all were unbelievable. The white asparagus soup was seasonal and also good. Clams and mussels were great. The pate was good but mousse better. Chef really knows what they're doing here. Service was also very good. Absolute mist try. read more

An amazing meal from start to finish. The food was exceptional, and Chef Bruno was warm, gracious, and so knowledgeable about wine. His recommendations elevated the entire experience. It felt like a culinary dream, and we cannot wait to come back. read more

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I had the BEST birthday dinner here! The staff is so incredible, super kind and accommodating. The ambiance was exactly what I was looking for. Drinks were very well worth it and the food portions surprised me. I already miss the linguine, 100% coming back. read more

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Agree with Yolanda about this being a "hidden gem" . . .great location and design. I really felt like I was in France! We had a delicious endive salad and split the lamb shank. I know people seem upset that there isn't a bone, but it says very clearly on the menu that it's deboned and the meat is delicious and perfectly seasoned with fig and apricot and more. Everything was made with care and very easy to eat. We had the crêpes Suzette for dessert. When the server put it down on the table, I thought I wouldn't be able to finish, but again: easy to eat. We cleaned the plate. I also think the speed of service is more European. With the exception of the Yelper who said there was a mix up with their order, I think this establishment intentionally leaves space for you to digest and converse. This is a perfect neighborhood bistro as far as I'm concerned! read more

I miss eating French food so much and luckily I remember that I have a legit restaurant about 10 mins away from where I live. Not only the staff is super friendly and descriptive about the menu, their food is legit good , although I can't compare with the one in France, but this is good enough ! Their vibe is so chill and friendly like in Parisian cafe , but we didn't sit outside because California heat in summer is no joke . Parking is plenty on the street. read more

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Many of the other reviews I read after visiting. They are spot on. The staff is professional. I was impressed that the server could name all the specials without reading them off. As one finds when visiting Paris. Wonderful touch. If you've ever been to Europe and visited Leon's of Brussels, you know they are famous for their mussels and fries. These were a large cut above! Broth was drinkable! Really, a flavorful seafood broth. My wife's fish was NOT overcooked! Big, pleasant surprise! Crispy skin. Tender flesh. Superb sauce, not overpowering but very complementary. Yes, pacing, look, staff interaction is similar to being in a small Paris cafe. You get what you pay for. This is an exceptional find. Glad we stopped in after shopping at the Farmer's market. read more

Great place. Solid kitchen. Seasonal. Best burger anywhere. Prime beef. Love this place. read more

Everything at this cozy bistro is an experience to be had. Chef Bruno makes the best food. Everything is cooked to perfection. I can always taste each ingredient that goes into preparation. I personally enjoy the burrata salad and mushroom cream soup as starters. I also like the escargot. Last time I was there, I got the wagyu steak with fries and asparagus. I requested the steak medium well due to my pregnancy and it came out just at the perfect temperature, juicy with the most delicious crisp in the outside. The place itself is quaint and attractive with a nice and relaxing atmosphere and the service is always top notch with Lorena suggesting the best wine pairings. Their desserts are also to die for. Overall, I'd recommend this Bistro to anybody that likes authentic French fare. read more

Bistro de la Gare - Chocolate Mousse - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

Chef Bruno's soups are some of the best in the area. Every fall I wait for the Butternut Squash to hit the menu. I would recommend the Branzino matched with a dry white wine. The wine selection and pairing is great! Don't forget about dessert, they are all very good. The service is very good and friendly. Great place for date night and having dinner with close friends and family. You feel like you're dinning at a small Paris Bistro!! Give it a try. read more

Highly overrated. Our server took forever to greet us and when she finally did she was annoyingly over zealous, selling everything on the menu as the best ever- it set expectations too high and the food was somewhat disappointing. It wasn't bad but just wasn't anything special. The lamb dish had a nice flavor but soooo little actual meat- they had made it into a sort of gravy and put it over potato purée . Wished the potatoes had some flavor. The risotto was disappointing- just not the right texture and not much flavor. It came with 3 scallops and 2 shrimp for $45- outrageous! The scallops were very good and cooked perfectly. After a glass of sangria and a glass of wine, 2 entrees and a piece of plain cake with raspberry sauce ($20), we spent $200 on dinner- and it was just ok. Not worth the price imo. read more

To begin, This restaurant is very good. The food, service, and ambiance all pass my test for what a French Restaurant should be. It's local and independently operated which is always prefer from larger and more commercial types. It has a warm friendly feeling inside. The food. There were 5 of us. So we tried different dishes. I had the confit de canard. I really enjoyed it. Others enjoyed linguini with claims , linguini bolognese, salad with burrata, tomatoes, arugula. We had to share the French fries. Everything was very delicious! In my opinion 5 stars. Will be returning soon. read more

Went to this very nice French restaurant in South Pasadena last weekend. Incredible food, attentive waitstaff, all good. Expert pairing of wine with each course. Nice to sit outside, very friendly vibe. Will be back! read more

A French stop in South Pasadena! Delicious food and exceptional ambiance at Bistro de la Gare! Chef Bruno is an exceptional chef! Come by and check it out! read more

Bistro de la Gare - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

First time here. Brought my family. We strolled in, no reservation, after having enjoyed ourselves at the adjacent farmers market (which is absolutely fantastic btw. One of the best in LA County.) Bistro de la Gare was a super experience. Fabienne was our server, we were greeted kindly by Chef Morin and right when we arrived, they got busy. Alas, our server remained as attentive as possible - kind, unpretentious, gracious, personable and funny. Really lovely. Atmosphere: So enjoyable. The lighting, the music, the people watching. I didn't want to leave. Ok. The food. OMG. OUTSTANDING. - Escargots in a herbed butter. Traditional, yummy. - Prosciutto with olive oil and burrata. Excellent. - Lamb shank. YES. complex, great textures. - Branzino with pureed carrot. OUTSTANDING. (This was my fav) - Filet Mignon - PERFECTION Even the crusty baguettes served alongside the dishes was notable. Fabienne thought her service was poor. It was not. :) The staff were super and the overall care and attention and pacing was steady. The whole experience all around was rich, special and enjoyable. I loved it. My family loved it. We are local and will ABSOLUTELY return here. Thank you Chef Morin. Thank you Fabienne. We will see you again soon! read more

Absolutely fantastic meal -- it honestly felt like we were enjoying food in France. We started with the chestnut soup and the salmon gravlax, both were outstanding. The flavors were perfectly balanced, the textures were smooth and refined, and everything tasted incredibly fresh. For our mains, we had the Pike Quenelles and the Boeuf Bourguignon. Both dishes were beautifully prepared and plated. The quenelles especially impressed me -- they're very difficult to make properly, but the chef nailed them. The sauce was rich, elegant, and absolutely delicious. Service was warm, friendly, and efficient, and the whole experience felt special without being stuffy. We had such a wonderful French dinner in this charming neighborhood. Can't wait to come back. read more

An absolute gem! The food is incredible, we've gone through a whole lot of the menu but my favorite is the duck breast XD the sauce and everything is just perfection. We actually come here so many times but i keep forgetting to take pictures because we just devour everything as soon as it gets to the table... oopsies...The service is amazing, they are very attentive whether we are there as a small or large party. I also really love that the utensils and plates are slightly warm when they bring them to us. read more

Bistro de la Gare - Chef special cake with fresh figs and berry sauce - French Near Me - South Pasadena, California

The food was amazing!!! Portions were perfect. Hard to decide which entree to go with because there were so many specials. Loved the variety. Went with the salmon and enjoyed it tremendously. Great meal. Will definitely be back! The service was spectacular! read more

Pleasantly impressed by the warm/ cozy ambiance. Chef Morin worked his magic with the entrees. Ordered the french onion and the lamb shank; both were excellent! read more

Superb lamb shank and excellent service. What a pleasure to eat outside on a stunning evening

If you want to understand the reason why fire codes and maximum occupancy laws exist and should be followed, go here on a weekend. The conversation of the person next to me had more clear audio than the last pair of Bose headphones I owned. Aside from that, poor staff is slammed and seems miserable. You know the French aren't really miserable people right? It's mostly an act. Food is great, portions are super small. read more

I really liked the ambiance of the place. We went for Valentine's Day dinner and had the special menu. Everything was delicious! I particularly enjoyed the quenelles which are not easy to find in LA. They were authentic and very tasty. The waitress was very friendly and the service great. The chef even came to say hi. I will definitely come back to try their regular menu which looks yummy! read more

Great food service and ambiance. Chef Bruno is great. Excellent risotto best steak frites. Excellent croque madam

Chef Bruno is the absolute real deal, a master chef of French cuisine. Our dinners are always outstanding, the menu updating classic recipes with contemporary flavors and seasonal ingredients. Our server (from Paris, bien sûr) was delightful and truly helpful, even offering to decant the Côtes-du-Rhône we brought to celebrate the night. We'll return soon! Too wonderful! read more

What a lovely spot near the train station. If you like authentic French cuisine, than this one's for you. Had a birthday dinner here on February 9th and arrived early since we did not have a reservation. It was Sunday, and filled up quickly with couples, families and solo diners too. VERY friendly service and yummy French onion soup, Olive tapenade, a vegetarian plate for my Mate and chocolate mousse for desert. The special of the day was a shrimp tempura appetizer. It was beyond delicious ! Since I couldn't finish all 5 jumbos I asked both servers to box up the rest for me to take home. Alas - they forgot to bring me the boxed shrimp (I also forgot! ) and sadly, I left without my treat. Hopefully when dining there next a nice drink or desert will be complimentary as a gesture of goodwill from Bistro de la Gare's folks. Highly recommend. read more

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The food we had was amazing. Especially the French onion soup. My wife loved cap cut ribeye steak. The raspberry tart was fantastic! The only issue is it's pricey,but worth it. read more