You can’t beat a leisurely dinner with an old friend, and Bistro du Coin is exactly that. Just re-opened after a trend-setting facelift and with a new menu, this cozy favorite has lost none of its charm.
Type of cuisine: A compact and thoughtfully compiled menu of International dishes, some classic and some innovative – there is something to tempt everyone.
Signature dishes: Fillet steaks, both imported beef and top-of-the-range local cuts, served with a variety of sauce options and excellent sides. Imported Rib Eye Steak, Fried Greek Feta cheese with a Lime-Honey dressing, Chicken Liver Pâté, Popcorn Shrimp and their ‘must-try’ dessert selection.
Dishes sampled: We didn’t rush into ordering, it was good to have a few minutes to immerse ourselves in the new menu, kick back and let the day’s stress waft away. The bread selection with its dainty dish of herbed butter kept hunger pangs at bay while we decided what was to follow. My dining companion’s choice of Salmon Ceviche as a starter met with both our votes. Generous chunks of lemon-marinated salmon resting on a bed of de-constructed guacamole and shredded lettuce, the dish was fresh, tangy, and a spot-on way to wake up our taste buds.
Our other appetizers came in equally substantial portions. The Duck Confit Spring Rolls were tightly packed with shredded duck, with an accompanying Hoisin Peanut sauce adding to the texture and interesting balance of flavors. The Chicken Liver Pâté was served warm, on croutons with two garnishes to set off the rich flavor of the livers. The creamy tarragon sauce was delicate, while the caramelized onion was sweet, sticky and a perfect match for the pâté. The signature dish of Popcorn Shrimp, a large serving of pan-fried tender shrimp in a sweet, spicy glaze with a sprinkling of sesame seeds was more than we could do full justice to. We enjoyed the subtle kick of chili that followed the initial sweetness, but wish that maybe there could have been a little more of the promised ginger. Be advised – servings are generous and can easily be shared.
We both headed for the fillet steak as our main dish, expressing a preference for local beef. The large tender steaks were cooked exactly as requested and the accompanying sauces, both pepper and mushroom, were top-notch. Our sides of garlic-laden mashed potato, chunky fries, creamed spinach and char-grilled mixed seasonal vegetables were worthy of being a meal in themselves.
Dessert time rolled around, and even though we had dined extremely well, we let our sugar cravings win and ordered our favorites: Crème Brûlée and Apple Tarte Tatin with Vanilla Ice Cream. No regrets at all. The full range of desserts is available throughout Seasons in all dining venues and now we know why.
Other menu options that appealed: There were quite a few of the new menu items that looked intriguing, including a Rocket Salad with Blue Cheese and the Fresh House-made Burgers.
Beverage options: Seasons Country Club serves wine, beer and local spirits, along with softer options. The fresh juices are great.
Décor: Great handmade tiles are a key element in the new decor. Displaying rich warm colors with a true artisan feel, the tiles draw on the traditional designs that are totally ‘now’ again. Combine the rich, dark wood furnishings and low-key lighting, the choice of indoor and outdoor seating and the true ‘bistro’ feel is very much in evidence.
Ambience: Background music was a mix that could appeal to most age groups. Add in the comfortable seating and friendly staff and you can quickly feel right at home.
Clientele mix: Club members and groups of friends from the neighboring community along the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road.
Price range: Mid-range. Club members benefit from a 20% discount. Considering the portion sizes, it is great value.
Top tips: The Bistro menu can also be ordered if you prefer to sit in the garden area. Takeaway and delivery are available for many items. Non-members are welcome to dine at Bistro du Coin.
Opening hours: From 6 pm daily.
Address: Seasons Country Club and Resort -Cairo Alexandria Desert Road
Tel: 0100 3424226
Website: www.seasonscountryclub.com
Facebook/Instagram: seasonscc
