"French Flair in Folsom"

"The Culinary Cowboys Round-Up at Balcony Bistro"

"Ridiculously Good!"  by Elizabeth Pierce

I had the most amazing dining experience yesterday night. My husband and I were walking down Sutter Street when we noticed a sign advertising a filet mignon special and LIVE JAZZ. We could hear the music faintly from the street and decided to check it out because:

a) We had never been to the Balcony Bistro.
b) We love trying new things.
c) You really can't get esquisite food in Folsom.

We were greeted by a picturesque, lovely little room filled with other patrons enjoying the live music by dim candlelight. It was wonderful, but a bit crowded, so we asked to sit on the quiet balcony so we could watch the night's activities pass us by. A beautiful asian waitress greeted us with a smile, some bread, a pitcher of water and an extensive wine list. We chose to order a few glasses of cabernet and zinfandel, and opted for the filet special and an order of the basa fish. Our waitress was very knowledable and answered all of our questions without hesitation- who would have known what basa fish was unless they were truly familiar with the food (or the question)? She suggested the wines, which perfectly complemented the salads and entrees we ordered, and don't think that's easy to do by chance because my husband and I are both rather well-versed wine fanatics! (I highly reccomend the Louis Cabernet!) We sat on the balcony enjoying the ambiance and music for a few hours, watching the world go by and enjoying our food. Our service was attentive but not overbearing, and we quickly discovered that we might have stumbled upon a rare jewel in the heart of Folsom. This restaurant is in need of some VERY VERY heavy advertising, for it is a shame that it doesn't get the publicity it deserves. The price may be steep for some, but well worth the experience!

"Spectacular"  by Alexander Griffin

The food is amazing, the service is amazing, the atmosphere is comforting and relaxing. Everyone owes it to themselves to eat at this restaurant at least once in their life, you can only understand by firsthand experience. This review cannot do it justice.

"4 Star"  by Brenda Howard

I have to say the best dam food in Folsom, if you haven't gone your missing out on a Fantasic Dinning Experance. I never new folsom had a 4 star chef that was famous in Los Angles. It is the cutest place and so warm and inviting. We booked a party for my Birthday in there new room for Banquets!!! it's going to be lovely I can't wait. You have to try the Crab Cake it's out of this world and the triditional French Boullibase what a treat! huge portions of fresh fish, clams and oysters (Yummy) Thank you Balcny Bistro for coming to our little part of the world! If you haven't gone yet put it on yor list it's the best in Folsom.

"The Whole Package!"  by Karen B.

This resturant has the whole package - terrific food, great service and a wonderful, warm atmosphere. The entree selection was varied and unique; the wine selection (even by the glass) complimented the menu quite well. Our party of four had the lamb, seabass, crepes, and samon - all were fantastic although the seabass was the favorite. Dishes were well presented and portions were generous. The chocolate estacy dessert was absolutely the best! Even if your not looking for a full meal go there just for coffee and dessert. We sat on the balcony which had beautiful foliage and ornate iron rails wrapped in lights. Our dining experience most certainly exceeded our expectations and we'll definetly be back.

"Balcony Bistro"  by Brian Sweet

Balcony Bistro...This place is FANTASTIC! To begin with, the ambiance is warm and inviting, rustic red brick and artfully faux painted walls adorned with local art give Balcony Bistro a unique Bohemian atmosphere. Service is provided by a staff that is both "Small Town" friendly and "Big City" professional, i.e. water glasses and bread basket receive prompt attention; appetizers and entrees paced perfectly! Wine list...for a brand new bistro, the list is well thought out and fun. I loved the house Cab, R.H. Phillips (Dunnigan Hills). Now on to the cuisine...The menu is uniquely varied. From Sea Bass and Soba Noodle Sushi to Spice Seared Venison to Cannelloni Crepes. Appetizers...We started with the Souffle' style Crab Cake and Chilled Oysters on the Half Shell. The crab cake is light in texture and rich with flavor. The "Sweet Fusion Chili Sauce" accompaniment gives a spicy bite, without having to reach for the water glass. The oysters were fresh and quite large (an oyster lover's dream). The companion "Minionette" sauce enhanced rather than overpowered the succulent oysters. Soup...the "Seafood Bisque" lingers on the palette with a suggestion of the sea and a whisper of cinnammon. Entrees...who would think to combine "Sea bass and Soba Noodle Sushi with mashed potatoes...what a wonderful marriage! The "Rack of Lamb Persille" with homemade mint sauce is tender, juicy, and exceeds expectations. Dessert...All desserts are prepared exquisitely "in-house". We had the Tiramisu which was perfect and "Chocolate Ecstasy" was just that, ecstasy. Getting back to the atmosphere, Chaz Mully provides live jazz guitar and conversations sometimes drifted "between" tables which lends to the relaxed but classy ambiance. All in all I believe owner/operators Rhonda Lynam and Chef Gerard Robert have a genuine "Hit" on their hands.