Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro — Restaurant in Sanibel

Mrs. FussBudget & I continued on our relentless culinary cavalcade through Sanibel this week and tonight we selected Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro for dinner. They require reservations so we opted for an available early 5 pm seating. This quaint bistro accommodates approximately 60 or so with additional bar seating of 8 high top chairs for patrons who might otherwise enjoy watching the (very highly talented) owner / chef prepare the evening's fare. We were greeted promptly on arrival by the owner's Wife who was quite pleasant and welcoming. The bistro is very (very) clean, nicely decorated with a tasteful French theme, lovely tablecloths and fine dining place settings. Himalayan pink salt on the tables was a nice touch and a FussBudget healthy favorite. First impression: we felt super-duper comfortable, relaxed, and appreciated as customers.

Our server Isabel started us off on the right foot, happily explaining to us first timers at the bistro all the options and nuances which we appreciated. She carefully pointed out several budget friendly "early specials" so we would not miss them which was much appreciated. We studied the menu, and selected from the main offerings. Mrs. FussBudget ordered the escargot appetizer and the house pinot noir to start. I chose Sanibel's finest tap water (a typical FussBudget choice). Mrs. FussBudget coaxed me into trying the escargot after years of previous steadfast refusals on my part). Huh. Actually, it was pretty darn garlicky good. Maybe I'll try 'em again someday.

Dinner for Mrs. was Veal Marengo and I opted for the Beef Bourguignon. Delicious French bread rolls with butter were served along with included house salad (vinaigrette is the sole choice of dressing). The food was amazingly délicieuse and well worth stretching the upper FussBudget limits. We had no room for desert, which I'm certain would be excellent also. We will definitely return. All in, before tax and tip was $107 - Mrs. so enjoyed the house pinot noir she had a 2nd. So 2 awesome entrees, and appy and 2 vinos for $107. Not bad, and I'll add the flavor was so outstanding it was well worth the excellent evening we had....

I took my wife here for our wedding anniversary dinner. The decor is well done. The staff is attentive and Chef Pierre even came around and introduced himself to all the dining guests before the dinner service hit full swing. It was a pleasant surprise to us.

My wife and I wanted to try everything but we began with the appetizers. My wife ordered the Foie Gras and I ordered the Stuffed Mushrooms and the Escargot. The Stuffed Mushrooms were very flavorful. The Escargot was good but standard fare as it was prepared like most places poached in butter with a nice crusty bread for dipping. The Foie Gras was wonderful. I would absolutely order it again. Prior to the main course in addition wonderful crusty bread we each received a salad with their unique house dressing. It was sublty flavorful and did a great job of cleansing the palate.

They also had a nice selection of wines to go with dinner if you want to indulge. For the Main course my wife had the Trout Almondine which she rather enjoyed. The meal came with a large flavorful skin on Trout fillet with potatoes and haricot verts. Nicely prepared. I had the Halibut. The fillet was a bit small. But it was well seasoned and expertly prepared it came with rice.

The meal for the two of us was a little pricey but if you want the best there is a price to be paid and we did order quite a selection. This was a special occasion dinner for us that we find time to experience several times a year. All in all it was overall a wonderful dining experience. I would absolutely recommend this fine dining establishment to anyone interested in experiencing French Cuisine at its absolute best. Chef Pierre and his wonderful staff make this a dining adventure one to remember. Make sure to make a reservation and this place...

Update Nov 2, 2023- A “Must Go” restaurant on Sanibel. Now specials like Surf and Turf (lobster tail and petite filet ) with salad, fresh cooked veggies- and Friday night special prime rib! And oooooh!- the lobster bisque! Magnifique! Still exceptional food, service, and wine. SOOOO happy to have a French Redon Sanibel- burgers and ice cream are nice- but THIS place is exceptional.

UPDATE March 7, 2023- REOPENED TODAY AT NEW LOCATION! Finally life at Sanibel feels more normal after hurricane Ian— The French Bistro opened today! As delicious as ever, staff as delightful and friendly. INCREDIBLE lobster Bistro, wonderful Sea Bass dish and New Zealand lamb chops, wine and perfect French silk pie! And the inside MUCH brighter than previous restaurants here- with strings of clear light bulbs inside😊. THANK YOU AND WELCOME BACK

UPDATE Feb 2021- still outstanding! BEST LAMB CHOPS ON THE ISLAND!! Covid update: delightful Mari herself bring your food out ❤️❤️-curbside pick up of WINE AND PERFECTION FOOD! Beef bourguignon still perfect, salad, bread, French silk pie!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 😃

UPDATE Jan 2020- STILL GREAT! Love the atmosphere and ambiance; great wine! Jan 2018–now 5 stars! Ambient, relaxed, cute bistro feel w blue, yellow and white linens. GREAT food now: beef bourguingnon DELICIOUS, tender beef w lots carrots. Chicken coq a vin also perfect as was the MOST delicious: sea bass with beurre blanc sauce. Salad dressing lovely,...