by Steven Doyle photos by Joy Jangles
Alberto Lombardi seems to collect restaurants like a grandmother collects snow globes and Hummel’s. Bistro 31, the latest addition into the fold of the family of restaurants, quickly found its way to the prized spot on the mantel.
The menu hearkens Mediterranean cuisine deftly produced by former Mansion sous Eric Brandt who said the dishes have a flair of French and Italian.
Designed by Ron Guest, Bistro 31 sparkles in its Highland Park Village location, replete with Venetian plaster walls and custom Murano chandeliers as a send up to the building’s original design which drew its inspiration from 1930’s Barcelona and Seville.
The close knit tables can be difficult to maneuver on a busy night, but once seated you are able to relax in the warm gentility the staff offers.
We were eager to check out the newly opened restaurant and decided on dinner first. The restaurant opens its doors for breakfast at 7am and continues service through out the day until 11pm; midnight on weekends. Weekend brunch begins at 9am.
We are pleased to share our first look with the aid of Joy Jangles and her lens work.
Tart Provencal Warm Tart of Goat Cheese, Tomato and Artichokes with Petite Salad
Roasted Beet & Burrata Caprese with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Topped with Crispy Serrano Ham
Seared Diver Scallops Yukon Potato Mousseline, Piperade and Kalamata Vinaigrette
Herb Crusted Lamb Loin with Tomato-Mint Jus, Creamy Polenta and Spicy Broccoli Rabe
Trofie Crispy Pancetta, Roasted Cauliflower, Parmesan Cream, Anchovy, Bread Crumbs
Apple and Chestnut Tarte Tatin Served with Homemade Dulce de Leche Gelato
Selection of Artisanal Cheeses Chefs Selection of Artisan Domestic and International Cheeses with White Balsamic Pear Compote, Marcona Almonds and Toasted Bread
Thank you for this peek of a beautiful new restaurant!
breakfast is delicious