Si Bon

Si Bon Restaurant Review:

Belgian-born chef Philippe Caupain was the executive chef at Thunderbird Country Club for nearly two decades before bringing a taste of his native country to Rancho Mirage with Si Bon. Red metal chairs, striped banquettes and murals of Brussels give a bright and cheery feeling to the interior space. There's also a bar (with its own menu) as well as a shaded, dog-friendly patio with heat lamps. Belgian waffles are highlighted at breakfast but savory interpretations also make appearances at lunch and dinner. The waffle pizza may sound like a stretch, but it's worth trying. Parma prosciutto and arugula are heaped on top of the waffle, which is flattened out a bit to give it a crispy texture. Other mid-day offerings include salads, crêpes (lobster and porcini mushroom, for example), mussels and a popular burger. The dinner menu features many European bistro dishes, such as seafood waterzooi (Belgian stew with scallops, lobster and more), Angus filet au poivre and veal wienerschnitzel. For dessert, you'll find more waffles (served à la mode with Belcolade Belgian chocolate), crêpes and gelati in flavors like apple strudel. Naturally, there are a few Belgian beers on draft along with La Quinta Brewing Co. for local representation. The short wine list favors French and California wineries.