Bon Appetit Awards

Bon Appetit Restaurant Review:

Long a noteworthy restaurant in the northern Pinellas County area (a go-to for proms, anniversaries and such), the family-owned Bon Appétit offers a kind of confidence about its ambience and food that says it never takes anything too seriously. For example, there's a piano on site that plays CDs --- yet one of the servers still sits down at the keys after the dinner rush is over to provide some mock entertainment. The décor is European, with halogen lamps over the tables and multi-level dining rooms. Most tables offer a view of St. Joseph's Sound. Meanwhile, Dover sole is pan-sautéed with lemon butter, then filleted tableside. Sweetbreads are also sautéed and served with wild mushrooms, while the rack of lamb has a pecan-herb crust. The dessert menu is nothing out-of-the-ordinary, although the chocolate mousse and apple strudel are standouts. A separate, and more casual, menu is offered for the outdoor seating.