Bistro Menil Awards

Bistro Menil Restaurant Review:

Bistro Menil at The Menil Collection mirrors the famed museum’s architecture and minimal, airy interior. Chef/owner Greg Martin spent time dining at restaurants at the finest museums around the world, and the result is a European-inspired menu featuring dishes that are as unique to Houston as the masterpieces in the museum. Starters include inventive flatbreads and a Spanish dish of eggplant “fries,” crispy vegetarian nibbles that are dipped in a spicy black olive tapenade. For lunch there are savory crêpes and a steaming bowl of Prince Edward Island mussels fragrant with white wine and garlic. A hearty dinner might start with a cheese or charcuterie plate followed by the chef’s signature crispy duck confit seasoned with pink peppercorn butter with a side of quinoa salad and a petite baked potato with crème fraîche. Light desserts for spring and summer include a pear upside-down cake and a sparkling lemon curd tart. The bistro features craft beers and wine on tap, while the espressos are just another reason to linger on the museum grounds. As well, you can always get a picnic basket and a growler of beer to enjoy on the tree-shaded lawn. Stop in for traditional European tea service Wednesday through Sunday afternoons.