Bistro Vis à Vis: Reviews [now Bistro Viz]

Bistro Vis à Vis [now Bistro Viz]: Reviews | restaurant info + video | full episode video

Name: Rachel
Occupation: Physical Therapist
Location: Corte Madera
Favorite Restaurant: Bistro Vis à Vis
Reviewed Bistro Vis à Vis: Friday, April 19, 2013

Bistro Vis à Vis is a tiny amazing gem nestled with in the Bon Air shopping mall. There is plenty of parking and the restaurant is tucked between other shops. The modest space is energetic and contemporary, with some romantic outdoor seating that has heat lamps. It’s all totally unexpected and unforgettable. The owners Soo Young Kim and Erich Lichtblau really care about your experience and always give you their personalized touch. They are gracious, hospitable and attentive. They only live four blocks away, and like many of their frequent guests, often walk from their home, making it truly a neighborhood restaurant.

They are very conscientious about using high quality and sustainable organic ingredients. The food is unique and innovative due to Soo Young’s background in biochemistry yet there is something for everyone. The Tuna Tartare appetizer with ginger-sesame vinaigrette, tobiko, mixed greens and wonton chips is incredibly light and refreshing. They always have seasonal specials that are well worth trying, such as the capellini with a lobster roe emulsion, baby octopus and wild shrimp. During the season, they serve this with fresh Dungeness crab.

The dessert list is short and changes regularly. The beignets are incredible. Made with organic flour, they are light and not greasy, served piping hot with an organic blueberry compote and crème fresh. They have an eclectic, carefully chosen boutique wine list that puts to shame many a list of big names you might find in more extravagant restaurants. They offer most wines by the glass, carafe and by the bottle, so if you are not sure, they readily propose a taste before you commit. I advise allowing them to choose the perfect pairing for your meal. The food is reasonably priced and a couple can experience an affordable totally romantic evening as long as you don’t go crazy with the wine. It’s an exceptional spot for locals but is also worth a special trip to Marin for foodies.

Name: Teresa
Occupation: Middle School Principal
Location: Daly City
Favorite Restaurant: Live Sushi
Reviewed Bistro Vis à Vis: Sunday, April 14, 2013

Pulling up to the restaurant you are not sure what you are going to experience because it’s in a strip mall, but wow, wow, wow! Everyone in the party agreed we would come back in a heartbeat! The wine selection is diverse and all of the wines are delicious; our favorite was the Belle Glos Pinot Noir. Both appetizers were big enough to share, fresh, full of flavor and delicious. Each of the main entrees was unique, fresh and made to order! The fish tacos were my personal favorite, which include cabbage, fresh flaky fish, a mouth-watering taste and enough for lunch the next day! The desserts are delicious, rich and homemade! The food and wine are amazing and the service is beyond five-star! The chef and waiter were eager for feedback, welcoming and made the experience perfect.

Name: Marco
Occupation: Director of Mobile Crisis Team
Location: Castro Valley
Favorite Restaurant: Chavez Supermarket & Taqueria
Reviewed Bistro Vis à Vis: Sunday, April 21, 2013

Getting to the restaurant from the East Bay was no problem since it’s only a few minutes after crossing the San Rafael Bridge. There is ample parking since it’s in a shopping center. The server was very nice and energetic; he offered the specials, soup of the day and showed us a wine list. It seemed pretty extensive but I am not a wine expert. I had the clam chowder and I can honestly say it is probably one of best bowls of any soup I have ever had. Soo Young Kim, the owner, even came to our table and was very energetic and informative. My favorite food there is the cheeseburger, I was very happy to see that they offered it and I was not disappointed. My friend had the fish tacos and we both thought they were just okay. My only complaints concern the music and patrons, which at times were a bit distracting. Over all it was a great dining experience and I will definitely go back to try other dishes; well worth the price.