Kelly M.
Yelp
In the labyrinthine heart of Knox/Henderson lies Le Bilboquet, an emblematic bastion of French gastronomy that beckons those with discerning palates and deep pockets. This lively establishment, bedecked with the aristocracy of neighboring Highland Park, offers a symphony of flavors that, while not scaling the summit of culinary brilliance, still manages to entice the taste buds with its expertly-crafted dishes.
Prepare your wallet for a fiscally harrowing expedition, as Le Bilboquet commands top dollar for its gourmet fare. The appetizers, priced between $16 and $30, serve as a harbinger of the financial tempest to come. It's a wonder the restaurant doesn't require an advance deposit to sample the hybrid Petrossian caviar dish, tagged at a staggering $460. Ah, the joys of dining in the realm of the haute bourgeoisie!
But let us not allow the pecuniary tribulations to overshadow the culinary offerings. The foie gras, a celestial blend of decadence and pangs of conscience, arrives with an air of self-assured grandeur. Its buttery richness dances on the tongue, leaving one simultaneously intoxicated and guilt-ridden.
For the goat cheese aficionado, the standout starter unveils itself as a revelation of tangy delight. Its creamy texture is tempered by the sharp bite of goat's milk, creating a harmonious yin and yang on the palate. This cheese, a testament to the dedication of the fromager, evokes the bucolic charms of a sun-drenched French countryside.
The mains, regally ranging from $38 to over $65, present a procession of flavors that, while not mind-bending, manage to captivate the discerning connoisseur's senses. The dover sole is prepared with a deft hand. Its tender flesh yields effortlessly, surrendering to the diner's eager fork in a balance of flavors that sings a melodious wild-caught ode to the bounty of the ocean.
Meanwhile, the filet au poivre, a quintessential French classic, pays homage to the glories of bovine indulgence. The tender beef, adorned with a peppercorn symphony, invites the senses on an aromatic expedition. Each bite, a testament to the skilled hands in the kitchen, elicits a chorus of gustatory delight.
As the culinary charade unfolds, the service at Le Bilboquet shines like a guiding star. The staff, embodying the spirit of refined hospitality, exude an air of attentive kindness. They piroeutte nimbly between tables, ensuring every diner's needs are met with grace and precision. It is a delicate ballet of service, leaving one feeling both pampered and indebted.
The ambiance here is elegant yet just frenetic enough to be interesting. When the nicer weather hits there is abundant al fresco seating available.
In the realm of Le Bilboquet, where French culinary traditions intermingle with the deep pockets of Big D's most privileged, one encounters a gastronomic sojourn that, while not yielding profound revelations, delivers an overall delightful experience. Indulge, but beware the cost. For in this enclave of culinary grandeur, every distinctive bite comes with a price that may induce an existential crisis.
