Bistro Provence Awards

Bistro Provence Restaurant Review:

Gastronomes can celebrate: Yannick Cam has finally reappeared on the local culinary scene with his small yet impressive bistro on one of the quieter streets of Bethesda. Charming, with front windows that open as doors to allow for gentle breezes and a discreetly elegant back patio for a sense of rustic dining, the restaurant captures all of Cam’s classic cooking in a menu that is truly French with no slick overtones. Before you settle on your order, ask about the day’s or evening’s specials, but you can’t go wrong with a starter lobster salad or the cream of asparagus soup with a Parmesan croquette before diving into the roast half chicken with a Parmesan-enhanced square of crispy polenta. We also recommend a bowl of saffroned risotto with a few shrimp as garnish. The menu changes seasonally and without notice, but whatever you find will only be enhanced by Cam’s masterful touch. Desserts are classic French, ranging from crêpes to a molten chocolate cake with sesame ice cream. And be sure to peruse the wine list; ask for advice, if need be. By the way, should you dine outside, you’ll pass Cam and crew in the miniscule open kitchen, cooking feverishly. He’ll greet guests cheerfully before getting back to work.