Dominique Bistro in the West Village

I’ve been cooking so much, it’s been a while since I’ve even been out to a restaurant (never thought I’d see the day…). But I was invited to check out a new French spot in the West Village, Dominique Bistro.

I haven’t tried too many French restaurants in the city but this one proved to be one definitely worth checking out. The restaurant is on a cozy Christopher street corner, and focuses on quintessential classics like souffles, bouillabaisse, and beef bourguignon to name a few. I even got to meet the head chef and owner, Dominick Pepe, briefly who emphasized the use of fresh, seasonal vegetables in every dish. The place itself is dimly-lit, small and intimate but every corner is put to use with plenty of table space so you don’t feel on top of each other. We tried a good selection from the menu:

The beet salad with heirloom beets, candied walnuts, and goat cheese is a good balance of all the ingredients with the candied walnuts being a nice treat.

Their ahi tuna tartare with avocado and lemon oil brings out the flavors of the fish with uncomplicated ingredients that lets the fresh tuna speak for itself.

The fettuccine has a swish of perfect flavors (mushroom lovers, pay attention) with its portelini mushrooms, black truffles, brown butter, and parmesan. A super tasty pasta that was one of my favorites.

We also ordered scallops that normally comes with smoked lardons. I had it without, but the mix of truffle potato puree, potatoes, and black truffle was satisfying in itself (Pepe said they salted it a bit more to compensate for its missing ingredient). They also base it in butter seasoning that gives way to a soft, succulent goodness and a delicately mild, sweet flavor. The truffle only enhances it without overpowering the flavor. A definite must-try.

I know this sounds strange considering it follows the mention of elegant dishes like the scallops, but don’t miss ordering the french fries (trust me!). Their fries are thick but still have crisp and cooked with a perfect blend of herbs like lavender, rosemary, salt, and sage. Consider it the grown up version of your usual fries that you can still enjoy like a kid.

Restaurant Info:
Dominique Bistro
14 Christopher St.
New York, NY 10014
(646) 756-4145
West Village
REPORT CARD
Meal: Dinner
Occasion: Checking out a new restaurant
Price: $$$
(Out of three stars)
Ambiance: ***
Food: ***
Service: ***
Would I go back?: Yes