November 2005
CELEBRATING
THE SURVIVORS
THE SURVIVORS
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As Atlanta moves-and-shakes into the next century, it often threatens to become too big, glitzy and impersonal for its own welfare. Too many businesses don't even see a first birthday.
the hudspeth report wants to recognize the nightclubs and restaurants that have become mainstays on this everchanging nightlife and cuisine scene.
Monthly we will feature venues that have not only survived, but have thrived; 'Celebrating the Survivors.'
French Bistro fare and Caribbean vibe unite
by toni m. lublin
It's been seven years since Provence French Mediterranean Bistro opened its doors in East Cobb in Marietta and two years since the adjoining Bamboo Bar was added offering cocktails, tapas and live music. Partners Patrick and Sylvie Lascoutounas along with Stephane Decourbe own both businesses.
Stephane Decourbe describes the venues as, "Two atmospheres under one roof. The Bamboo Bar has a Caribbean vibe and the bistro a Mediterranean flair."
The bistro side of the restaurant is very romantic with intimate bistro tables and yellow and blue colors reminiscent of the French Provence countryside. The menu is also very French Provencal-inspired with entrees ranging from confit de canard (duck confit), filet of sole, trout, cod in filo dough, sautéed veal liver, filet mignon to lamb medallions. "Whether dining at the bistro or the bar, it's all about having a good time and enjoying the atmosphere," says Decourbe. A variety of appetizers ($7 - $12) include escargots, mussels, portabello mushroom, a selection of cheeses with mango jam and olive bread along with a wide selection of salads.
In addition to a $5 tapas menu the Bamboo Bar offers a full menu, which includes some of the same items offered in the bistro. Tapas items include a Caribbean chicken brochette (grilled chicken skewer with spicy sauce) and ocean salmon (a smoked salmon roll). Every Tuesday enjoy complimentary chef tapas and special cocktail of the day for $5. Wednesday The Sweetest Taboo Band entertains and cocktail of the day is Sangria at $3. On Thursdays DJ JAB plays Motown, disco and soul starting at 8 p.m. and all martinis are $5. Every Wednesday through Saturday a variety of live musicians fill the bar with tunes from blues, international, disco, house and funk.
November 17th is Food and Jazz Cabaret Night featuring the Water Lines Band, a contemporary Jazz group playing tunes from Groover Washington, Jr., Earl Klugh, Quincy Jones and more. A set menu for the evening will include bleu cheese bacon salad, smoke salmon roll, duck confit truffle oil or filet of sole with lobster sauce and a jazzy dessert. The price is $29.50 and reservations are required.
The drinks at the Bamboo Bar are made with fresh fruit juices and given island names such as the "beach martini" or action stars such as "007" (a mix of vodka or gin, dry vermouth, olive or a twist). To accommodate an increase in traffic to the bar it was expanded recently and includes a dance area with more cocktail tables and banquettes. Decourbe describes the atmosphere as casual and fun, "People come and dance a little or just hang out in the lounge area of the bar. It's a very relaxed, casual atmosphere that the neighborhood has really embraced."
Provence Mediterranean Bistro and Bamboo Bar are located at 4655 Lower Roswell Road in Marietta, 770.321.5442 or 770.817.3000. Hours for Bamboo Bar are Monday - Friday 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. and on Saturday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. The bistro serves lunch, brunch and dinner. Hours are Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for brunch, Tuesday - Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner. www.provencefrenchbistro.com