Let's French

There seems to be at least one French bistro on every block in Manhattan. In Astoria, they are very few and far between. I have always been a big fan of French bistro staples- moules frites, hanger steak, a well-done croque monsieur. So, when I was walking down 30th avenue and saw all my favorites listed on a menu at Bistro Les Minots, I had to stop in! Let me say that all those French bistros in Manhattan have nothing on this place.

The meal started with moules dijonnaise. The mussels were just right, and the sauce was present but not overpowering. The owners were also kind enough to let me try their garlic frog legs and escargot crostini. I know you're wondering, and yes! they were legs from an actual frog, but now I know the phrase, "Tastes just like chicken," has some truth to it.

Then it came, my wonderful plate of steak frites. I ordered it medium rare and the au poivre sauce was sooooo good. The fries were salt and peppery and just the right bit of crunch. My glass of pinot noir, Red Bicyclette, accompanied my dish wonderfully. Now, it seems the restaurant's electricity is a little spotty for a couple more days until their wiring is fixed, so the lights kept going off. It was pretty funny, but the food was so good that I just continued enjoying it by candle light as the lights flickered.
Of course I left room for dessert. Their homemade apple tart was accompanied by a dollop of vanilla ice cream. They also have a little treasure called The Floating Island. It's a merengue in a light lemon sauce. It was light and airy, a very nice way to end a very filling and satisfying meal. Oh! and did I mention that they make their own orange wine? This one's on the house and definitely worth drinking up.

I briefly chatted with the owners before leaving and they mentioned regularly scheduled events that will begin in a few weeks. I don't remember everything, but they did mention classic French movies over dinner and a wine club. Can't wait!