The Beau Bistro — Restaurant in Ontario

Visited on 18/07/2025

Ordered: Calamari Medium Steak + Fries Smashburger + Fries Chicken Quesadillas + Salad

When we first got in for a late lunch after a long and busy drive, we were told that a lot of the items that we would’ve been interested in ordering were unavailable until over an hour later due to “a rush” in service. We were told this while the restaurant was almost completely empty except for us and a family that was done their meal.

Slightly disappointed, we chose to order off of the lunch menu with only the steak having been part of our original plan. The calamari we got for starters was slightly saltier than expected and quite greasy, however it was fresh tasting and delicious otherwise. The issues began with our main dishes. Almost everything that required frying from that point forward was overcooked, bitter and beyond greasy. The steak was ordered medium and it arrived just short of well done, which while understandable, was difficult to justify with what came next. The fries were acrid and hard as sticks, while also being salted to the heavens. This was the case for both the burger and steak dishes. The burger was dry, with not enough salt or pepper. The quesadillas barely had any cheese or chicken, with only bitterness to offer as a flavour. It was as hard as burnt toast, and not dissimilar in taste. The only saving grace was the fact that the salad was quite good, however that can be credited to its dressing.

While attempting to enjoy our meal, we chose to speak up about the fries at least, and were explained to that this was a stylistic choice. However, our server was kind enough to accommodate us and change out our plate of fries. Sadly the newer fries were not noticeably different. Our bill was over $100, which calculates given the dishes we ordered, but makes no sense when accounting for the 2hr drive to Picton and for the...

I wanted to love this place and had I been dining alone, it probably would’ve been a 5-star experience . I enjoyed the asparagus appetizer, a local IPA, and a creative cauliflower steak (which was not served as a typical steak slice but a towering volcano-piece of cauliflower which was fine by me). Our waitress was excellent and so apologetic through out, I truly felt for her.

Unfortunately, it was mishap after mishap for our group of seven. Two guests’ fish and chips tasted like they were fried in very old oil. The much-anticipated steak frites arrived beyond overcooked. Another guest’s arctic char was so heavy on the black pepper that even the spice lovers at our table were coughing.

And while the food was far from perfect for everyone, what made the experience truly disappointing was the youngest guest at our table received their meal after everyone was halfway through—and it was the wrong dish TWICE. We asked for chicken strips from the kids menu and were given fish both times. Thankfully there was no allergy involved, but it was shocking. After the second mix-up, we gave up and let them have ice cream for dinner since everyone at the table had long finished their meals. The staff kindly comped desserts, which we appreciated, but it didn’t undo the frustration, or the hunger. I still can’t understand if it was a genuine kitchen mistake both times or if they were trying to pass off fish bites as fried chicken for a kid, but it was odd to say the least.

This was a Tuesday with a reservation, and the place was not packed by the time we hit the second returned plate. I sincerely hope the kitchen gets things sorted out, because the service was lovely, and the concept has promise. But the level of error, especially with kids at the table and potential allergies in play, makes me cautious about...

We had dinner at the Bistro for the first time and loved it. My husband had the smash burger which he liked but he particularly liked the fries. I tried a couple and they were really good. I had the Countylicious menu with Thai Spring rolls which were perfectly cooked, fried chicken on a green peas and green onion pancake with a light drizzle of maple syrup, and the chocolate honey ice cream with a shortcake bar.

The fried chicken was a thigh and was juicy but the portion was too big. The pancake was delicious! I really enjoyed that it was savory.

Oh but that ice cream! It was superb! The chocolate was rich without being cloying and you got the hint of honey with each bite. By far the best ice cream I have had in a very long time! I wish I could have brought a big bowlful home with me.

Our waitress was very attentive and very helpful so service was excellent. We also enjoyed the atmosphere and that there was no music blaring.

We feel our money was well-spent and will definitely be...