Vida Bistro

12/12/07

Best French Cuisine

by hummerh2o at Citysearch

Exceptional service. We recently had our anniversary dinner there. The duck was juicy, tender. We were seated promptly and great house wine. Our friends came later to join us and a table was set up right away. The food came promptly. The atmosphere was a real French Bistro without flying to France. Tasty wine. Tasty food. More than satisfying portions.

• Pros: Warm inviting
• Cons: none

06/01/07

Disappointed Customer

by clangerinsf at Citysearch

I was very disappointed in Bistro Vida, especially since it was recommended to me by a friend.

First, the service was horrible. Having worked in the food industry, I understand the stress when you don't have enough wait staff (at least it appeared that they were short staffed), but there is no need to be rude while waiting on us and make me have to go over to get my bill and then be even more ruder, especially since they and they weren't that busy.

Second, I ordered a croque monsieur that was awful. It wasn't even on the bread specified on the menu, that would have made it more tasty and didn't have the melted cheese on top (plus the cheese inside was hardly melted). Honestly, how hard is it to make this sandwich, especially for a French restaurant?

I definitely won't be going back.

Oh, but one good thing - I saw they had a Tobin James wine - unfortunately given that I went there during work hours, I couldn't partake - perhaps if I had, I would have had a better experience!

05/18/07

A piece of France in little Menlo Park

by coco35 at Citysearch

I don't understand any of the negative reviews below. Bistro Vida is a GREAT find. I feel transported back to a quaint Paris neighborhood every time I dine there (although the place does have a little NY trendy edge feeling about it as well, in a very good, not trying too hard, way.) The menu is true to the Parisian style and very tasty. The owner, Allie is one of the kindest people ever, and he works hard to ensure everyone is happy. He also makes a great mojito and recommends very nice wines. He is a Frenchman, which is probably the reason this place feels so legitimate. My husband and I love this neighborhood bistro, as do many of our good friends. We strongly recommend it!

• Pros: Great ambiance, friendly owner, real Parisian menu

04/06/07

Best French food I've had!

by ronage at Citysearch

This is my second time eating French food EVER, but I'm shockingly surprised at the previous comments. I took my girlfriend there for Valentine's day for a late dinner. Good thing. The place was buzzing and busy! We found it very charming. Great decor, cocktails were nice, atmostphere was comfy, food was excellent, and the owner was cool! Try the duck confit!

• Pros: Environment, cocktails, owner
• Cons: Parking, small tables

01/14/07

Average, but not memorable

by kaodot at Citysearch

I can't say they did a bad job - the pork chops were especially tasty, but the rest of the food was not distinctive or memorable. Not bad if you're just looking for some place to eat (the atmosphere is pretty nice) but the prices are a little bit on the high side, and it's not a place I'm rushing back to revisit.