Bistro Niko

Dorris P.

Joined 3 months ago

Excellent food, great service. Felt like I'm in Paris again!

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barryescott

Joined 10 years ago

Reminded Us of Bofinger's in Paris. This was our first visit to Bistro Niko. It has the authentic look, feel, noise, and energy of Bofinger’s restaurant in Paris -- one of the top ten historical restaurants in the city. But this is Buckhead, U.S.A., so everything is bigger, bolder, brasher, and more beautiful -- especially the local women.

The menu reads like a Julia Child’s list of French classics but this is pleasantly deceiving. Chef Donlick has skillfully updated and created his own interpretations. For example, my Canard d l’Orange was a perfectly executed duck breast with just a small note of citrus on a bed of cabbage cooked in red wine. This was not your traditional syrupy Grand Marnier and butter sauce.

My wife had a wonderfully prepared braised lamb shank on a bed of couscous. I can only describe it as a meatcicle for Fred Flintstone. The layers of flavor and texture we terrific.

We were lucky to be there on a night they had soft shell crabs. I hope you are as fortunate.

Service was perfect and the restaurant was jammed. A sign you are in the right place.

We cannot wait to try another of Chef Donlick’s Redux French classics.

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francesfr

Joined 8 years ago

Delicious food, beautiful look, smart clientele, bad service. We decided to try Bistro Niko as part of our tour of Buckhead restaurant week. The photos on the website look fabulous and the space is a treat to see in person. Sadly, from the valet, to the hostess to the server we were somewhat disappointed. Valets had a bad attitude and were obviously not happy to be there. Hostess was rude which is not appropriate for 1st impressions nor for a hostess. (We overheard 2 gentlemen decline one of the fun, curved booths as it was too large for them. So when it was our turn to be seated we asked for the same booth and was told it was reserved. Really? Just 2 min ago it wasn't??) Hostess instead seated us at a banquet where 1/2 the table would have a view of the hallway. If the restaurant weren't so beautiful it wouldn't have been an issue. The design is gorgeous and makes eating here very enjoyable. However the food is the star and the reason I will return. There is a lively and comfortable bar perfect for drinks or having a quick bite with or without a companion. Crowd was diverse, mostly smart and stylish. Prices are fair for the location considering the casual yet elegant vibe of a European bistro. Service was slow and could be a touch improved. (Our waiter told us an error on the check would take "a long time" to fix). Fortunately, the manager was available to help rather expediently and resolve the issues. For that I commend the restaurant for trying. Looking forward to the next time and hopefully a chance to write a glowing review.

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Jonathan Baker

Joined 6 years ago

Buckhead Life goes high-end French.. In Short
The first restaurant delivered by Atlanta’s restaurant super-group (Buckhead Life) since 2001, Bistro Niko not only fits the billing, but seamlessly blends like it’s been here for years. Lodged in the glassy Sovereign building, the aesthetic is a classic combination of elegant design and a sophisticated clientele. In short, it looks like a snapshot from Buckhead in its prime. The food, traditional upscale French cuisine, is hearty yet sophisticated. French onion soup comes overflowing with rich, gooey cheese while roasted piquillo peppers are stuffed with complex salt cod brandade. Bread is near perfect and rillettes de saumon (salmon spread) only makes it better. Classic (and well executed) entrees such as coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon surprisingly clock in under $20, while the wine list is mostly French and mostly affordable. While geared toward the exclusive Buckhead set, Bistro Niko is obviously a restaurant for all of Atlanta.