Bistro Niko opened on November 5th at the base of Sovereign, the luxury condominium building with prices start at $1,000,000. Trying a new restaurant the first week it opens is always challenging, but I thought I would give it a try. Bistro Niko did not disappoint in service, interior design or the quality of food which was being served. I’m a tough foodie to impress and I don’t have much patience for bad service or so-so food.
The planning of the restaurant started a few years ago while the building was still under construction. Buckhead Life secured the space and began planning the interior with thoughts of opening a French bistro in the space. They visited the top bistros and brasseries in New York City, Washington D.C. and Paris to get inspiration and set their plan in motion.
The interior of the space is quite lovely. It features vintage pieces of art, antique light fixtures from France and red awning covered, sidewalk-bistro style patio that overlooks Peachtree Road.
I’ve been to Paris many times and the menu at Bistro Niko is very authentic, but has a modern twist to it. It still features classic menu with items like Blue Hills Muscles steamed in white wine, shallot and cream and Seared Tuna Nicoise. I tried the Charcuterie (Country Paté, “Faux” Gras Terrine, Prosciutto & Salami) to start (which was enough for two people to share), then had the Veal Osso Bucco “Shepherd’s Pie” (which was outstanding). There are a large number of items to choose from and if you can’t make your mind up, go for the pre-fix to make it easy. There are numerous reasonably priced items to choose from.
The service was excellent and a little too quick at times. At one point I had to tell the server to wait and serve our main course because we had just received our appetizers. Slow it down! After that, the timing was perfect. The food came out hot and tasted amazing.
The bar scene was vibrant and within about one hour of being in the restaurant, it was completely full and the restaurant was filling up. By time I left it was completely packed. If you are looking for a chic place to have a cocktail after work, check the bar out.
The restaurant has complimentary valet parking off Tower Place Drive, just get your ticket validated.
I’ll be in Atlanta in December – perfect place to try.
I went to Bistro Niko the week before Thanksgiving. It was one of the best restaurants I’ve been to this year. With this addition to their portfolio, The Buckhead Life Group brings a 5-star dining experience to Atlanta.
I absolutely adore Bistro Niko – it’s really the perfect answer to the void left by Brasserie le Coze. The food is playful / not too serious, but totally in keeping with the French classics. Next time you’re there, try the St. Germain cocktail. It’s light and SO good.