Francophiles and foodies, take note: Bistro du Lac in north Scottsdale is bringing the authentic flavors of France to the Arizona desert.
This restaurant, bar and bakery is located in McCormick Ranch in the former home of Buster's on the Lake Restaurant.
The interior is bright and sunny, with red walls and creamy white accents; glittering chandeliers; and a very enticing bakery case full of cakes, colorful macaroons and freshly baked bread.
Bistro du Lac brings classic French dining to north Scottsdale — Photo courtesy of Bistro du Lac
When the weather is nice (and it usually is in Scottsdale), sit outside for waterside views of the man-made Lake Marguerite. There are two patios with tables draped in white linen, both offering peaceful views of the water.
The restaurant was co-founded by Catherine Berraud Dufour, a native of France who previously ran Scottsdale's beloved Au Petit Four bakery. Berraud Dufour's restaurant partner is Thierry Voisin, another French native and longtime friend.
With two natives of France at the helm, it's no surprise the menu is steeped in authentic French cooking. On the menu, you'll find Escargots de Bourgogne dripping in garlic butter; French onion soup with melted gruyere, garlic crouton and scallions; and a daily charcuterie board with imported cheeses, meats, grapes, nuts and bread.
Entrees include classics like beef bourguignon served with stewed potatoes, carrots, peas, mushrooms and egg noodles. You'll also find a salty and savory bouillabaise, a fish stew made in a saffron tomato broth and filled with shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels and cod.
Part of the pleasure of eating at Bistro du Lac is sampling the dessert menu, which includes a caramelized apple tart served with caramel and vanilla bean ice cream; a chocolate and banana mille-feuille pastry that's made with layers of almond filo wafers; and, of course, a classic crème brûlée.
Before you leave, browse the pastry menu and bakery case for take-home treats. The case is usually stocked with lemon and apple tarts, almond croissants; raisin bread; fresh brioche; macarons; tiramisu; and various fruity mousses, including mango, raspberry and passionfruit flavors.
On Sundays, Bistro du Lac offers a brunch buffet from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The spread includes omelets, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, pastries, quiches and a chocolate fountain. The brunch is $28 plus tax and includes a glass of sparkling French wine.
Bistro du Lac is open daily for lunch and dinner, with a happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Happy hour specials include half-off wine bottles on Wednesdays; $5 glasses of wine and champagne; and discounts on appetizers.
Be aware that the restaurant closes rather early (9 p.m. every night), so come early enough to enjoy a sunset dinner.
