Bistro Chikara Review Summary

Wonderful 6-course taster menu in a warm, friendly, intimate atmosphere. Japanese chef cooking authentic European food. Delicious and highly recommended!

Walked by this little French bistro near work and it is always packed during lunch time. Finally made it to lunch on a Monday. We ordered the three course set. The appetizer plate was tasty with smoked salmon, salad and quiche. The little wedge of quiche is delicious. For main, I ordered duck leg confit and easily the best one I have eaten outside of Paris, crispy skin, moist meat and excellent flavor. I am not a fan of the fries, Next time I will ask for salad instead. My companion’s lamb with couscous looks really good. She finished in no time. The basque cheesecake was delightful. Plus a glass of bubbly/ red/ white is included in the set. Amazing deal for a Michelin guide restaurant. The service was speedy and efficient, in one hour, we completed our meal. I Will definitely go back soon.

Quaint and quiet place, on a Tuesday night. It’s a really tiny, quintessentially old school Japanese restaurant, all managed by a single chef. Surprisingly good food, and the chef-owner was able to communicate very well with me (I don’t speak Japanese). And the wine recommendation was perfect for the lamb we ordered.

Exceptional selection of California wines! Very good contemporary French food in a comfortable casual setting at a reasonable price. Service was attentive and well executed. Handwritten menu included English and the chef also spoke English and worked in the Napa Valley. What really impressed me about this place was the astoundingly well-curated collection of California wines. California wines can really be hit or miss, even in the state, and tend towards expensive (often overpriced in my opinion), but the owner has an extensive collection of all California wines at very reasonable prices that really showcase the best the state has to offer. The by-the-glass selections were superb. If you want a well executed meal with unique and enjoyable wine parings this is your place.

Small but very fine place. The food is excellent and feels tailor made for every night and customer. Got some great wines from California on offer. The menu is always a great choice and changes frequently.