The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar

Restaurant · Hampton

The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar

Restaurant · Hampton

1

1 E Mellen St Suite 208, Hampton, VA 23663

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The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null
The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar by null

Highlights

Fresh, seasonal dishes & outstanding dry-aged duck breast  

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1 E Mellen St Suite 208, Hampton, VA 23663 Get directions

bakerswifebistro.com
@bakers_wife_bistro

$$$ · Menu

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1 E Mellen St Suite 208, Hampton, VA 23663 Get directions

+1 757 964 9424
bakerswifebistro.com
@bakers_wife_bistro

$$$ · Menu

Reserve

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Last updated

Sep 7, 2025

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Chef‑owners Dana and Phillip Epstein bring polished, French‑leaning plates, a serious wine program, and live jazz to historic Phoebus. Named a Top 50 restaurant by Coastal Virginia Magazine and praised for elevating Hampton’s dining scene without losing local soul.

https://coastalvirginiamag.com/article/the-2024-coastal-virginia-culinary-awards/
Best Restaurants in Hampton (2025)
View Postcard for The Baker's Wife Bistro & Bar

Jesse G.

Google
From the moment we stepped into The Baker's Wife, we knew we were in for a special eve. This was, a five-star dining experience from start to finish. Our waiter, Sean, was an absolute revelation. His knowledge of the menu was truly impressive; he didn't just rattle off ingredients, but offered genuine insights into the preparation, sourcing, and even the subtle flavor profiles of each dish. He guided us through the menu with expertise and passion, making excellent recommendations that perfectly suited our preferences. It's rare to encounter a server so genuinely enthusiastic and well-versed, and Sean's recommendations enhanced our meal immeasurably. The meal – simply divine! The head chef is a true culinary artist. Every dish that arrived at our table was a masterpiece, both visually stunning and bursting with incredible flavors. You could taste the dedication and creativity in every bite. From the perfectly balanced appetizers to the exquisitely prepared entrees and the divine desserts, each course was a testament to the chef's skill and vision. It was a truly memorable dining experience, where every dish told a story and left us eager for the next. The ambiance was charming, the service impeccable, and the food utterly phenomenal. The Baker's Wife has officially become our favorite spot. Bravo to the entire team, especially Sean and the brilliant head chef, for crafting such an unforgettable evening!

Marcus Barkley

Google
I admit that my largely cheapskate ways (as well as the money it costs to raise two young kids) exclude me from a lot of finer dining opportunities- so far be it from me to say no when a chance comes my way. This was the case with the Baker's Wife, as I was in Virginia for a celebration of life event and my wife's relatives asked to treat us to dinner on a summer Saturday night. The location is smaller and kind of unassuming from the outside, but they do a good job of table/restaurant arrangement, and the decor is tasteful and pleasant overall. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and our server was very accommodating to the needs of our larger party, even as we needed to have two people sit at the table next to the main table to fit everyone in. We started out with some orders of the brioche rolls and "interesting butter", which is a rotating infused butter. That night it was herb truffle, and the combo was quite nice. For my entree, I opted for the dry-aged duck breast since I really enjoy duck and it's certainly not an everyday menu item. It was served with seared foie gras, baked salt beets, blackberries and blackberry coulis. This dish was outstanding, with tons of complementary flavors that was crafted extremely well. Definitely one of the better mains I have had in awhile, even with the loftier price tag. Overall, this is a lovely restaurant that sets itself apart in the Hampton area, anchored by very good food and lovely service. Definitely worth a stop if in the area.

Brent Yocum

Google
We came here for a date night. Being military we don’t get many unless family is in town and since I just promoted, we took advantage of it. This place is absolutely amazing. The service is impeccable and the food is amazing. Ok top of that it is a cozy atmosphere. If this is an indicator, I stopped eating my food to write this review because that’s how great of an experience this is. Much deserving of 5 stars. We will be coming back here for our 11 year anniversary next month. HIGHLY recommend! Pictures are of the NY Strip steak and the New Zealand Lamb Rack.

Victoria Morse

Google
Delicious food, we had the steak, tuna crudo and lamb! Unique cocktails and fun vibe. Definitely a must visit if you’re in the area!

Martha Alexander

Google
First visit . Impromptu stop while in area. Parking behind building was adequate We were promptly greeted, seated, & addressed by server. Loved decor & ambiance, menu easily read, a few veg options available, We opted to start with the Chicken Fried Mushroom, Ceviche, & Truffle First..the Truffle Fries was ample , fresh fried & topped with cheese sprinkled served with an Aioli . Not what we anticipated but was good . The ceviche was A zucchini ribbon finger wrapped around about 1oz of shrimp ceviche. Although a fresh & unique presentation, at $20 for 1 small finger we felt it was very overpriced.. The Fried Oyster Mushrooms was presented as an overcooked, dark brown, greasy dough mass. The oyster mushrooms were lost in all the dough & when biting into it pul gushed from the morsel. Either it was cooked in old oil or the frying temp was too low. The accompanying sauce however was wonderful & went better with the Truffle fries than the Aioli served with the friesThe leftover mushroom I took home hoping salvage the actual mushroom from it but tossed it because of so much grease. The extra side sauce was not added as requested. Where the apps disappointed, the dinners were Stars. The Rockfish in Heirloom tomate sauce was well seasoned,cooked, moist & flavorful. The Scallops with the corn puree & succotash was Outstanding! & unanimously the evening favorite. The portion of 3 small scallops presented more as an appetizer than a dinner. Again the sauce was a favorite. We tried desserts of Vanilla Creme Brulee & Pistachio Cream Carrot Cake. Both had good flavor but the Creme custard , not the Brulee topping, was very overcooked. Overall the service was good-, the bar & cocktail list was interesting, & would probably give it another try .

Nicholas Grant

Google
We have driven by so many times but not in a position to stop and try it out. Yesterday the weather was perfect and we finally made it. The restaurant is gorgeous, they had love jazz band, the drinks were great, our waitress was kind and prompt. The food came out quick and was really good. So glad we stopped in for brunch! Will be back for sure.

Audrey Deoliveira

Google
I thought this place was so cute. Our server, Everette (hope I spelled that right), was so sweet and had a great sense of humor. We loved him. My husband ordered the short rib entree and I tried the duck. We were both equally impressed with the flavors. I was in love with my wine, the epinay sauvion (chenin blanc) from France. One of the best wines I’ve had thus far—so smooth and just sweet enough. While you’re waiting for your food, try the truffle fries. Thank you for a great experience and Everette for making our date night spectacular.

Jay Thomson

Google
We were delighted by the charm of this little gem when we met friends there for dinner recently. The atmosphere was lively, without becoming too noisy. Our cocktails were okay--nothing to brag about--and the service was friendly as well as attentive. I had the crab and grits to start, followed by lamb chops. My husband had the steak, which only came with some grilled mushrooms and seemed to need a side. Bread with "interesting butter" (a compound butter made differently each day) was definitely a hit. We look forward to going back again.
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Mike B.

Yelp
A Must-Visit Gem in Hampton - The Perfect Last Night on the East Coast After weeks of cruising up from West Palm Beach and settling into the Bluewater Yachting Center in Hampton, we decided to celebrate my last night on the East Coast with something memorable. We found it -- and then some -- at The Baker's Wife Bistro + Bar on 1 E Mellen Street. From the moment we walked in, we were met with the warmest welcome. Dana, the owner, came by after dinner and chatted with us for quite some time -- a genuinely kind and passionate person who clearly cares deeply about her restaurant and guests. Behind the bar, Shawn was our guide, entertainer, and bartender for the evening. His quick wit, charm, and impeccable recommendations turned our dinner into an experience. His suggestion? "Get the scallops." He was absolutely right. We're bar diners, and this bar did not disappoint. While it lacked a foot rail (our only minor note), the under-lit granite bar was gorgeous, comfortable, and well-proportioned for dining. The whole setup gave us a view into the kitchen -- which was a treat! Watching the chefs prepare each dish with care added a theatrical element to the evening. We started off hungry and excited, choosing two appetizers to kick things off: * Lobster 2 Ways - Delicious, elegant, and creative. * Vadouvan Coconut Mussels - Rich, flavorful, and unique. Both were absolutely stellar. As our excitement grew, we decided to eat family-style and ordered four entrees to share among the four of us -- and I'm so glad we did. Here's the lineup: * New York Strip - Perfectly medium-rare with a beautiful char. I'm usually a ribeye guy, but this was excellent. The mushrooms on the side were a standout touch. * Pan Seared Scallops - A Shawn-approved must-have. Golden, tender, and packed with flavor. We ended up ordering a second round. * New Zealand Rack of Lamb - Truly next-level. The mint pistachio crust and spring peas were inspired. * Dry Aged Duck Breast - Rich and beautifully cooked. The foie gras jus and Tay Berry coulis elevated the whole plate. Each dish had distinct character and was perfectly executed. Our whole group was thoroughly impressed -- and we've eaten at some of the best restaurants around the world. This one truly stands out. After dinner, the dessert menu tempted us with inventive options. We tried the Carrot Cake and an off menu item that night Bread Pudding -- both were memorable finishes to an already exceptional evening. The drink selection was equally impressive, with a range that included four bottles of Blanton's, a rarity in small bistros and a real treat for bourbon fans like us. Lots of range from gin to wine! In short: if you're anywhere near Hampton, make The Baker's Wife your destination. Whether you're just visiting, like we were, or a lucky local, this place belongs on your list. Exceptional food, top-notch service, and the kind of charm you rarely find all in one place. We've already decided: when we return to Hampton, this is where we're coming back. #BakersWifeBistro #HamptonEats #VirginiaDining #EastCoastEats #FoodieFinds #HiddenGemRestaurant #FoodieAdventure #EatLocalVA #YachtLifeEats #DockAndDine
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Heather B.

Yelp
My family and I recently visited Baker's wife bistro for a special occasion. This has always been on my list of places to visit and we finally had an opportunity to do so we were able to make a reservation, which is extremely helpful. Once we arrived. We were able to find parking on the street. Once inside we were greeted, gave her name and proceeded in a back dining room. The seating was very comfortable . Our waitress was wonderful throughout our entire experience. She was very attentive. She was able to answer any questions we had. I love that they had options for mock tails, but I do wish they were on the menu. I feel like mock tails are becoming a really big thing sometimes it's nice to come out and not get an alcoholic drink and not have to be stuck with soda, tea or waterHaving a mocktail is a really nice option. There were six of us dining, and we all got different dishes, which was nice to see everyone's meal. The meals were pretty good. They were definitely pricey. Some of them. I understood the asparagus was a little more expensive than we were expecting. The brioche rolls were really pretty good and the citrus butter was perfect. It was not overpowering. My chicken was very flavorful the way they cook it definitely kept it moist. For dessert, I opted for the vanilla crème brûlée. The problem I had was the crème brûlée was overcooked. It was the texture of scrambled eggs. It wasn't smooth. The rest of the desserts really just did not meet our expectations. I really had high hopes for that. I would definitely return when the menu changes, but I don't think I'd be bringing my entire family to save money lol
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Randy M.

Yelp
Really enjoying ourselves at the bar at Baker's Wife. We tried the asparagus starter which was lovely and artfully presented. The Cure Plate was very plentiful. Several cured meats, thinly sliced, and served with ground mustard, brie and some sesame crisps. The chicken entree was to die for. Again with some heat (as advertised) and succulent. The cocktails were perfect. Yes, they're pricy but you're in a nice restaurant. The service was very friendly and accommodating.
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Alexis N.

Yelp
A friend and I enjoyed brunch. I had a French 75 cocktail which was refreshingly delicious. Looking around though, everyone else has the Aperol spritz which I guess I'll have to try next time. We ordered the pastry basket to start. It was fresh almond croissants and cronuts. I asked for 1 separately but they unfortunately only sell it as the basket which had 6 pastries. They were hot and delicious. I ordered the crab omelet and my friend had the breakfast bowl. Our waitress Kelly was very friendly and helpful especially with it being our first visit. There was a live singer and bassist which was a nice touch. I'll definitely be back to try dinner
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Nicki B.

Yelp
I was thoroughly impressed with this restaurant overall. They even had a birthday card for me signed by the staff, which was a nice touch, and the mocktail was amazing. The restaurant itself is beautiful, and there was live music, which added to the atmosphere. I will definitely return. However, the food wasn't great this time. I think we might have just ordered the wrong items. I wasn't impressed with what we got, and I probably should have asked for recommendations on what they're known for. The scallop dish was just okay--decent, but nothing special. My son didn't like his steak at all, and now that I think of it, they didn't ask how he wanted it cooked. It came out medium, but it was too fatty and chewy. Despite that, I'm willing to give them another shot! P.S. The desserts were delicious!

Lauren B.

Yelp
I REALLY wanted to love this place - and in all fairness, I will give them another chance when I'm in town again. I've tried their sister restaurant, The Great Goose, which is excellent. The cook/chef WAY over salted the scallops to the point that it seemed as if the top came off their salt shaker! Blek! Yuk! I should have sent them back but I ate it and told the bar server about it and even offered to talk to the chef but she told me I didn't want to do that. The gem salad was good. I'll try it again sometime and I'll tell them no extra salt ... but really I shouldn't have to do that.
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Latoya A.

Yelp
I had the fish of the day which was halibut. My meal was good, no complaints. Unfortunately three people in my group were not happy with their steak. The steak comes as is. Not asked if they wanted medium, well, etc. They all three had three different experiences. 2/3 returned their steaks due to it being too hard to chew and they other said it was extremely fatty. She had a stomach ache and became nauseous after eating bites of the steak. The third had a steak that was cooked perfectly. I wish everyone had the same experience as she did and myself. I will say that our waiter was very polite and attentive. He was awesome. Ambiance was very nice. More for a date night versus a social experience.
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Sally C.

Yelp
I live in Virginia Beach and honestly don't go to Hampton often but this was worth the trip. Loved the food, loved the vibe. I was there for a private party so my review is based off of that but the food was delicious and the service was friendly and attentive. I love the open kitchen and they have outside seating. Some nights they even have live music. I absolutely loved the ambience...you can dress up if you want. It would be a fun ladies night but also a good date night. The menu is small but there is something for everyone. Well.....if you are picky like my sister you might not like it. Definitely high quality food and cooked by a trained chef....not a cook. The food we had was wonderful but I would love to go back for a meal from the menu. Definitely check this place out....even if you live in Virginia Beach.
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Margaret H.

Yelp
The atmosphere was sophisticated yet relaxed. Shawn and Everett were incredible. The food was insanely good! I wish we lived closer!

Takeshia W.

Yelp
Always start with the positive- our server, Virginia, was incredible. She was attentive, warm and so knowledgeable. Virginia made the experience. The ambiance is also top tier. It's a beautifully appointed place that seems to transport you out of Hampton roads for a short while. The drinks are also wonderfully crafted. We had the drink special called a rising sun and a blood orange moon-something. Both were well balanced and felt really special. Now the reason we go to a restaurant is the food. Unfortunately, this was the worst part of the experience. The catfish brioche starter is dry and desperately needs more sauce. The truffle fries are passable but nothing I'm clamoring to get back to. The best thing on the menu in my opinion was the broccolini served as a side with one of the mains. I asked to order the broccolini a la carte and was told the chef does not allow sides to be ordered a la carte (wild to me. I just want some veggies). Trust me and skip the steak. As others have said, the chef won't customize it to your cooking preferences. It's as he deems best which didn't align with my preference. I did send it back and watched the chef visibly eye roll. It came back cooked closer to medium but was bland and fatty. The sauce on the plate was sparse and couldn't save that steak. I requested 90% of it be boxed up and my husband will try to save it when we get home. My recommendation- Go for drinks and maybe a before dinner app. Eat your mains elsewhere.
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Nikole B.

Yelp
We made a reservation and went out for a good dinner. First time here and it did not disappoint! The atmosphere is different, elegant and authentic. The ceiling is very different. They have a full bar and plenty of seating. I had the lamb burger. I wasn't a fan but that's only because it was my first time eating lamb. The ingredients on the burger were fresh and full of flavor. My boyfriend had the pork chop and it literally was cooked to perfection, melted in his mouth. Definitely recommend the truffle fries. They were some of the best fries I have ever had and that says a lot. The dipping sauce was also delicious. Our server was absolutely fantastic, I can't remember her name but I know she works Saturdays and that is when we will be going back.

Hov O.

Yelp
Cozy atmosphere love the open kitchen behind bar can't wait to try the chef's experience that they offer

Randy B.

Yelp
Stopped in for a drink and quick app. So glad I did. Sat at the bar. Pleasurably greeted by Emily who expertly walked me though the apps while she crafted the perfect (half price- by the way) old fashion!. Tuna was her passion and I didn't argue. The tartare was expertly prepped by Chef Blake like it was his audition for Master Chef. Spicy yuzu concoction of his own, precision knife cut phatty ahi tuna, covered with alternating sweet and spicy radish and strawberry medallions. The combo was exquisite and perfect. the "floor show" of chef, His crew and the service staff was poetry in motion. Can't say enough. If you came here before and thought "too French Foo Foo for me" Try it now. Menu is inviting and new and I won't be surprised if Chef Blake is "stolen" by another big deal place soon. Thanks again Baker Wife and thanks Chef Blake for the lessons tonight.
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Angela M.

Yelp
Everything was super amazing and what a gorgeous little spot in the heart of Phoebus! Food was so so good, and service was perfection.

Terry M.

Yelp
Our first experience was a positive one. We made reservations online and were warmly greeted upon arrival. Beautiful restaurant. Combination of old and new school decor. We were seated and approached by our waitress a minute later. Appetizer (Cure Plate), drinks and meals were served in a timely manner. The sauce and vegetables with my meal was cold but tasty and the halibut was warm, seasoned well and very good. Half of my Wife's chicken was done and the other was not. She ate the half that was and brought the other half home. We had carrot cake for desert with coffee and enjoyed both. I thought the cake was a little dry but very good with the coffee. We enjoyed a good conversation with the couple beside us and my vodka martini with a slice of lemon was awesome. We enjoyed our dining experience and plan on having dinner there again soon.
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Andreas K.

Yelp
I was just visiting so I don't know much about the place beyond this visit but it was hit and miss. The service was excellent. I think it's just a sign of the inflationary times where restaurants have to go to some questionable extremes like putting 4 scallops on a plate with 4 pieces of leek and a spoonful of sauce and calling that an entree or selling 4 small cold dinner rolls with butter for 11 bucks. I appreciate how challenging things are right now but this didn't feel right. The space is nice albeit in what appears to be a gentrifying neighborhood. Live music is great but in a small space - we were often texting each other at the table. I get that creme brulee takes time and can't always be made to order but warm it up first if it's pre fab.

Bonnie D.

Yelp
The ambiance and service were excellent. However, the food left a lot to be desired. The bone marrow and escargot was salty and tough. The New York Strip came out charcoaled and well done. After sending it back, it came out cooked correctly but had so much grissel it was inedible. Then I also didn't know that the potato pave was actually a paving stone.
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James B.

Yelp
The food, service, and decor are all next level. Great addition to the community! The drinks are fantastic and I love the bar.

Tiffany b.

Yelp
The truffle fries were horrible. The French 75 drinks were horrible. The service was great.
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R J.

Yelp
Fantastic dining experience! Best vegan experience ever-including the dessert! Service was fantastic also. Patrick was great. We will be back!
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Takeyia S.

Yelp
Husband surprised me with a pre bday dinner here. Amazing establishment, beautiful ambiance and decor! The staff was AMAZING! Our waiter Gavin did not miss a beat. Drinks we ordered espresso martinis and the lavender margarita YUM! We ordered the mussels appetizer and house salad! The mussels were GREAT! For dinner my husband and sister had the lamb and the jam on it was phenomenal. I had the special which was flounder with a lobster tail over risotto plated over a tomato based sauce. It was delicious like really delicious. This place is definitely a gem. Food is cooked fresh so expect a wait but the cocktails and ambiance make up for it. Chef sent over a birthday plate for me... such a nice touch also! Will definitely be back bc the tomahawk looked amazing from afar!
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Jordan B.

Yelp
Absolutely gorgeous space with the best food! It's taken me awhile, but I finally got to check out the Baker's Wife twice in the span of two weeks. First, I did the special event wine and food pairing. The owner had a representative from Cakebread Cellars in Napa for a wonderful evening of wine and delicious food. Oh my gosh, the food was fabulous and plentiful. The event was worth every penny! It would be a great way to celebrate something special. Buy your tickets early! After being so thoroughly impressed by the chef, I brought my family for a celebratory birthday dinner. Again, the food did not disappoint. The location has quite a wine selection and also a full bar. My mother tried the drink special and it was truly unique and tasty. The decor and ambiance are fantastic! If it's nice outside, they also have a nice patio. I will be back for more of their wine events.
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Don C.

Yelp
Avoiding the dreary rain last weekend, my Grubbing Buddy and I decided to go out and try a new nearby restaurant to lift our spirits. We found this place while scanning Yelp, looking for new and nearby restaurants. We found The Baker's Wife Bisto + Bar, which says they serve a French/American-style cuisine. The place was not too far from us, and the rain finally let up, so we decided to give them a try. We were warmly greeted by two hostesses, who set us at our table. While the place wasn't at all crowded, we figured it was because of the rain and not the food. The ambiance and setting of the bistro were really on point. Whoever designed the place really knew what they were doing. After being seated, our waiter, Patrick, (who was very personable and inviting) gave us a run-down of the menu. I ordered my drink, a brown sugar old-fashioned, and my buddy ordered her favorite Dirty Martini with plenty of olives. My old fashioned was a little too sweet for me but tasted good, none-the-less. Wanting to chill and talk, we ordered their Vadouvan Coconut Mussels, a Dozen Local Oysters and some Truffle Fries with Black garlic butter. Our meals were good but not for the heavy price ($$$) we were served. Overall, I enjoyed the Baker's Wife and plan to return to try out their Sunday Jazz Brunch. I'll fill you in on how it turns out.
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Karen P.

Yelp
First off, let me say the decor and ambiance is wonderful. I don't want to rate the service because it was our waiter's first night. As for the food, gosh I really wanted to love this place. The idea is good, but... We started with Crab and Grits and Beef Tartare. We were lucky that we had already agreed to share our 1st courses because the tartare did not show up to the table until 20 minutes after the crab. The crab was cooked in a miso butter with nasturtium oil. Unfortunately so much miso paste was used, we could not taste the peppery undertones of nasturtium. It was a very salty dish. The grits were coarse ground and well cooked. The entire dish would have been a joy if some restraint had been used in the seasoning. The beef tartare needed acid. The menu listed pickled cauliflower as an accompaniment but what we got was chopped fresh cauliflower. The accompaniments that typically come with tartare, an egg, capers, mustard etc were not there. The dish was stacked with crispy potato slivers and raw cauliflower. Lots of Worcestershire was used in the stack and again just really over-seasoned. No crackers or baguette came with the dish so we had to order soft rolls for $10. The rolls were served with a coconut compound butter which was just strange. For our entrees we both ordered the Scallops with a strawberry vierge sauce and orzo with black garlic. Let me say first that scallops were perfectly seared and tender. The sauce was delicate with strawberries taking the place of the tomatoes found in a typical vierge sauce. The sauce needed more acid to counter the sweetness of the strawberries and scallops. The orzo with black garlic was a jarring counterpoint of flavor rather than complementary to the main. The black garlic flavor was so strong that it was just short of bitter. The flavor profiles of the two dishes just didn't belong together. The "Truffle" Fries consisted of the weirdest dish on the menu which does not contain a description of what you will get if you order this monstrosity: nicely cooked fries drowning under a literal mountain of "snow". From the photos I assumed the "snow" was very fine Parmesan but my first bite proved me incorrect. The texture of the snow was like cornstarch and had a slightly sweet aftertaste. None of the earthy flavor you expect from truffle oil. When asked the waiter did not know what the snow was and brought the front of the house manager to our table who explained they use MALTODEXTRIN infused with truffle to keep the fries from being "greasy"! Give me good old truffle oil and Parmesan any day. Maltodextrin is a highly refined starch used in highly processed foods. No thank you. We did not finish the fries. The desserts were the highlight of the meal. The strawberry-lemon semi-freddo tart had a nice crust and was both tart and sweet, creamy and refreshing. The S'mores came with a large square of freshly made grilled marshmallow, chocolate pot de crème, bourbon ice cream and a ginger crumble. Very well executed and the flavors married so well. I wish I could say that I would return to this restaurant because I adore the building and the concept of having a French style bistro in Phoebus. But it is almost as if they are unsure of which restaurant they want to be. The heavy handedness of strong seasoning goes against the basics of French cooking where individual flavors are encouraged to shine through and good fresh ingredients speak for themselves. The menu covers dishes one expects from a decent bistro. Steak frites, duck, rabbit, seafood. I had hoped to return but doubt I will unless I hear through the grapevine they have changed chefs or made other changes to what is leaving the kitchen.
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Maritza A.

Yelp
First time I heard of this place and what a wonderful surprise. Amazing food, amazing service, beautiful atmosphere . I had the duck, my husband had the filet, our friends had the pork and filet and we all loved our food Our waiter Patrick was a delight. We will be back!

Kelly W.

Yelp
Sunday Brunch was wonderful. We celebrated my husband's birthday. Upon arrival, the table was set with a card for him signed by all the staff. We ordered drinks, entrées & split a dessert at a leisurely pace while listening to the live jazz playing. Eggs benedict & lamb burger were delicious. The carrot cake crumble & sorbet topped it off. We couldn't quite finish it. Definitely going back-- maybe earlier next time... before the warm petite almond croissants are sold out.
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Tee N.

Yelp
This place never fails with the quality and ambience. The service is always amazing and the food always cooked to perfect. This place is a hidden jewel in the community. They never fail me.
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Cal G.

Yelp
This place was outstanding!!! The food was good, the waitress was outstanding! I'm sure I'll come back here again!
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Marissa D.

Yelp
I wish I could give this place 10 stars! I've grown up in this area and the past few years I've passed by many, many times. How depressing it is to know I've missed out on such a gem. The ambiance is rustic yet cozy, overall just beautiful. From the minute my friend and I walked through the doors each and every staff was welcoming and delightful. We stopped by for dinner around 6:15pm, wasn't too busy at all which made it perfect to take the experience in. We both ordered the 3-course prefix special. I genuinely enjoyed the house salad; perfect blend of kale, goat cheese and walnuts and the vinaigrette dressing it was served with was AMAZING. Let's get into the meat of things, THE RIBEYE WAS COOKED TO PERFECTION The best medium cooked steak I've ever had, hands down. Tender and full of flavor but still a great steak taste. We shared the snickerdoodle crème brûlée (yes, just as amazing as it sounds) and the apple cinnamon Bundt cake. Seriously, I have zero complaints. A special shoutout to Alexis, our server. She was amazing, helpful, and so knowledgeable of the menu. I will certainly be back very, very soon.

John R.

Yelp
We enjoyed an amazing Valentine's Day dinner at the Baker's wife bistro. Amazing atmosphere, super service, and the food was perfect. Donny who was our server was attentive, and knew when they gave us space. This new restaurant in Phoebus classy and you get what you pay for. We will definitely come again to celebrate a special occasion.
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Danielle G.

Yelp
I love all the wonderful restaurants on Mellen Street but Baker's Wife is the peak of elegance. Wonderful decor and sweep fine dining service make this place a one of a kind. I tried the goat cheese black truffle arancini and they were yummy. I also tried the smoked duck wings. But the star of the evening was the mussels. Delicious curry broth, savory sausage and the meatiest mussels I'm pretty sure I've ever had. My server Paul was outstanding as well as Patrick and the manager who checked on me several times throughout my evening. I'll definitely be back for Jazz Brunch!

Betsy F.

Yelp
We have enjoyed Baker's Wife on multiple occasions from a date night Saturday to anniversary/birthday dinners. The food is always phenomenal and the staff treat us like a guest in their home. We are always looking for the next time we can visit.

Irene M.

Yelp
I can not even say enough good things about Baker's Wife the food is so great every thing is on point. Service is wonderful very Attentive. So super cute inside I love sitting at the chefs counter. Definitely a vibe.
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Shelby B.

Yelp
Excellent restaurant, owned by 2 sweet people. Food is delicious and flavorful every time and the 2 chefs really know how to prepare and execute their dishes! Cute little quaint place to eat.

Esther S.

Yelp
Always a great experience. Food was delicious. Will definitely be coming back for the $1 oysters.
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Kris R.

Yelp
Nice restaurant, great food, server was very knowledgeable of the menu, professionally described all meals upon question.
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S B.

Yelp
A few months ago I went on a Sunday for Brunch, and I had one of the most amazing dining experiences. When I walked in, they had live music playing. The ambiance made you feel as though you were actually in New Orleans. The staff was very friendly and attentive. I sat at the bar near the cooks and when I tell you they were the best seats in the place. I had the opportunity to ask questions (being the foodie and aspiring chef that I am) and watch them passionately prepare each dish. I also met the owner-Dana. She was very personable and hands on. I can see why the food taste so good because it seems that the staff is like family, so it's made with love. I also tried caviar for the first time, and it was delicious. I definitely plan on going back this month for Dinner and Sunday Brunch. Check out my reel highlighting my experience. https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cscrf5Jgqc4/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg==
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Chantal L.

Yelp
This place is gorgeous hands down. Me and the group I went with (total 8 of us) were very excited to eat here to celebrate a birthday. Everyone dressed up and came with the intentions to have a beautiful night celebrating our friend. What happened next is why I will never return. We had reservations for 6:30pm. We were seated on time. The first drink orders (3 total plus a salad) came fast. I and my husband put our order in after the first batch of drink orders with a salad to start. The salad arrived after an hour of making the order & after asking for the salad 4 times. My husband's drink came 1hour and 26minutes after he ordered it. The server apologized every other time he returned to our table and said the items were coming - showing up each time WITHOUT the drink or the salad (lol). We all ordered our dinner at the same time around 7:15pm. By 7:30 the gentleman waiting to eat his salad at our table graciously gave me his and waited the extra 30 minutes till mine arrived and ate it. Dinner: we weren't allowed to make any substitutions (ie switch fries for mashed potatoes with the Steak Frites) which wasn't much concern overall. We all just added the sides we wanted as an up charge. Rolls weren't provided to our table until 7:50pm with a promise our dinner would be sent to our table shortly. Dinner arrived right at 8:14. 3 guests ordered Steak Frites - one gentleman (same who saved me by offering me his salad) ordered medium well and received medium raw. The others were so hungry they ate what they received. The salmon is delicious, the chicken entree is also good from a guest at another table, the steak is not well seasoned (all three felt the same) and the drinks are quite stiff which is the only thing that held most of us over till our dinner arrived. The owners and staff were constantly walking by and our server occasionally apologized but that's all we received as far as customer service. No comps. Just a VERY long awaited meal that left most of us running to the great wine bar two doors down (Fox Tail- excellent service & great dessert!).
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Cory K.

Yelp
My girlfriend and I have been eager to visit this little spot since it's inception! We were intrigued by the idea of a French/American cuisine inspired restaurant joining the ranks of the excellent foodie scene of Phoebus/Mellen Street. So the first chance we got, we made a reservation (online, I might add)! We were not disappointed. After being promptly and politely greeted at the door by our host, our amazing waiter, Donovan, enthusiastically got us started with some fantastic cocktail recommendations. If you're looking for guidance on where to begin here, Donovan will not let you down. The Seersucker with tea syrup and a charred lemon and the bubbly French Tart in a chilled coupe glass were definitely highlights of the evening. Our Tuna Tartare appetizer was savory and competed for the top prize with our excellent Entrees. My girlfriend decided on the duck and while my lamb was definitely delicious, I had slight food envy. Fortunately, she shared a little. The Chef set a very high standard with her first experience with duck. Simply cooked to perfection and plated beautifully to pair well with the ambiance and gorgeous decorum of what will be a location we frequent often. Now to join their Wine Club!
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Samee S.

Yelp
My husband and I came here for a delayed Valentine's Day dinner. The staff at Baker's wife were very friendly and knowlegable on their wine and food selection. We thoroughly enjoyed all out selections during the meal. We highly recommend the Duck Pomme Poutine as an appetizer and the Quail. To finish off the meal we had the best Bread Pudding in existence! We would go back just eat this alone. Only downside of Baker's wife is the price. It is unfortunately not a meal most can afford to have every Saturday - but is a great splurge for celebrations!

Kelly K.

Yelp
OMG...the absolute BEST food and service -- HANDS DOWN. This is a 5-star restaurant with an amazing chef & wait staff who made the dinner experience One of a Kind. The curry coconut mussels, steak, salmon, duck, scallops, and tomato jam ratatouille were phenomenal ....and the cappuccino Creme brûlée was insane as a closer! Thank you, Richard, for an amazing birthday celebration for our daughter! This Augusta, GA family will be back for sure!
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Lori W.

Yelp
Lordt I am still thinking of those scallops! Perfectly done, well seasoned, and so delicious you may require more than the 4 on your plate. Not only is the food on point but the vibe in the restaurant is sooo cool. Beautifully designed and staffed with an array of attentive employees, but not only attentive, they are smart, kind, and interesting as well. What started as a chill night with a couple of friends ended up as a fun night with some brand new friends! Definitely coming back here again
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Katie B.

Yelp
I'm honestly sad to see so many poor reviews. This is a new truly FINE dining experience in Hampton, that's why I got us a reservation on a night I knew they wouldn't be busy. This is the kind of place you go to for the **ambience** of it all. That being said... Our reservation was for 6 p.m. on a Tuesday night. We were immediately sat. There was an appropriate amount of time between receiving our water, appetizers/drinks, entrees, and then being asked what we wanted for dessert. We came on a night we didn't have the kids (3 & 1.5). While I wouldn't call the dining experience kid friendly, they did have high chairs and a changing table in the restroom I went in. The menu just didn't seem very "kid-friendly" and with my two sets of grabby hands...you get it if you get it lol. All in all, excellent experience. Not a run of the mill drop in restaurant, definitely fine dining, definitely worth waiting. Thank you!

April H.

Yelp
Love love love this place. Never have a bad meal. Great staff. Awesome atmosphere and always consistent. Has a nightly special and has a jazz performer Wednesday nights and Sunday brunch.
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Elizabeth B.

Yelp
I'd been wanting to try this place and found myself caught out after 9PM with most places closed. I happened to drive by and see they were still open and that it wasn't too crowded. Great, right? I asked for a seat away from other patrons to maintain a safe social distance, then poured over the menu. It was ambitious with a lot of high end offerings like duck and foie gras and quite pricey. I decided to live a little and go for the French Dip. When the waiter suddenly approached from behind with no mask on and standing quite close, I immediately felt something was off. I placed my order and looked around and noticed nearly none of the wait staff was wearing a mask. Not a good sign. It's as if they were blissfully unaware of the recent outbreaks among staff at restaurants right across the street. To their credit, once I expressed my concern, the staff gave me a wider berth when returning with my order, but I still worry for their health with Omicron looming on the horizon. I was surprised such a high end place would be so cavalier about the safety of their staff and customers. When the food came out, I finally understood. This was a second rate establishment masquerading as top tier. My French dip was little more than a Philly cheese steak with a small bowl of dipping sauce, not French onion soup, and the side salad was the spring mix they sale for $5 a tub at the grocery store. Wish I'd taken a pic so you could see what I mean. Come here for the ambience, vaulted ceilings and sophisticated decor, but don't expect high end French cuisine. It's bar food with a side of COVID.

Tracy C.

Yelp
I drive weekly from Williamsburg each Friday to eat and drink. The daily specials are wonderful as is the new menu items. What nice ambiance. Patrick and the others are awesome.
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Ashley M.

Yelp
I have no pictures bc the food tasted so good that we inhaled it. If I had only one meal to eat the rest of my life, it would be their poutine. The people were so sweet and attentive. This was the second time I've been here, and it was consistently delicious both times. Bravo to everyone from the hosts, managers, waiters, chefs, etc. Simply spectacular.

Austin W.

Yelp
We unfortunately no longer live in Hampton, but we enjoyed dining at Baker's Wife probably five or six times during our four years in VA. Baker's Wife is one of the best restaurants we have ever been to. If I had the ability to give out michelin stars, I would give one to Baker's Wife. We have been to fine dining/michelin restaurants in NYC, Houston, Boston, and a few other foodie hot spots, and bar none, none of them have beaten the overall dining experience that Baker's Wife provided us. Every waiter/waitress we had provided outstanding service and recommendations and every meal we had was jaw droppingly good. Shoutout to Troy for being an above and beyond waiter for us three times. Even on nights where service was slower than usual, the quality of food more than made up for the wait. We will really miss being able to dine here and we have even agreed we would come back to Hampton Roads just to eat at Baker's Wife. Thank you all for being such a great establishment for our celebrations, family visits, and dinner in general. I would rate you higher if I could.

Diana V.

Yelp
Classy from the front door, heck before the front door. If you're looking for an highly elevated dining experience look no further. This place is the total package, service is amazing and the food... all I can say is don't wait run for a reservation today!