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Artisan Bistro Reviews List

Artisan Bistro

Artisan Bistro offers a warm, welcoming ambiance, appropriate for both special occasions & casual get-togethers. The highly refined food of Chef/Owner John Marquez, blends Northern California's local/organic sensibilities with French influences & techniques. The warm interior is a reflection of the casual elegance you find in every meal. This upscale bistro is intimate, personal and inviting. The dining room is contemporary, stylish and elegant, displaying natural wood beams, a cozy stone fireplace, and exhibits by a local artist.
In the kitchen, the sophisticated menu is prepared by Chef Marquez, with over 15 years of French American culinary experience. He has recently served as Chef at Fringale, Chef de Cuisine at Coi in SF., with prior work at Picasso in Las Vegas, Per Se in NY and The French Laundry in Yountville.
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244 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
(244 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 244 reviews
5 stars
(135)
4 stars
(89)
3 stars
(15)
2 stars
(3)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2 / 3
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(175)
  • fit for foodies(167)
  • special occasion(145)
  • great for outdoor dining(128)
  • great for lunch(74)
  • romantic(64)
Artisan Bistro Reviews List
Review 1 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Brunch

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Best lunch/brunch food east of the tunnel other than Va de Vi or Nama Sushi. Artisan certainly has better ambience and service than Nama, but then again these are also set at different price points. For me, if I'm not trying anything new, and I'm east of the tunnel, it's Va de Vi or Artisan Bistro depending on which one I'm closer to or if I'm in the mood for some wine (Va de Vi's wine list being something else and clearly the winner).
I highly recommend the wagyu beer burger or French toast."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
+1point
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Review 2 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Warm and Cozy

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very attractive intimate atmosphere, friendly caring management and service, and food was delicious."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2001
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+1point
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Review 3 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First class all around

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great relaxing ambiance. great service, friendly intimate. loved all dishes
The whole dining was just a fantastic evening experience. From being welcomed to the door until leaving the restaurant, the staff was pleasant, at times even funny, and made sure nothing they could help us with wasn't done. Definitely want to go back again.
"
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+1point
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Review 4 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A great dining experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"After visiting so many places where the food is mediocre at best, we were delighted to stumble across Artisan Bistro. We dined at Coi a number of months back and Artisan Bistro is heads above that restaurant with considerably better pricing. Highly recommended. Excellent flavors - if the octopus is still on the menu don't hesitate to order it as it is one of the best we have every had."
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
+1point
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Review 5 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

High Quality in Lafayette

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant continues to offer very good fare in Lafayette. When the weather is nice, opt for outside dining. This outdoor dining area has been well thought out. You'd never know it is located between a city street and parking lots. While the menu choices are not extensive, considerable thought has gone into each option by the chef. The restaurant has a good wine list that is compatible with menu choices. Wine prices are about two times retail which may seem high, but are a bargain by San Francisco standards. And parking is free and there is no bizzare "tax" for employee health plans."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+1point
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Review 6 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Utter perfection

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"There simply is no substitute. The care that goes into preparing a meal here is without compare. I've eaten here over a dozen times and have never experienced as much as a single misstep. True culinary perfection. If you have the good fortune to get a table here you should be prepared for a true 3-star experience. There isn't a dud on the menu and it changes often enough that you will never be bored if it's a return visit."
Dined on 6/11/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+1point
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Review 7 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

All around good

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A great place for an excellent meal."
Dined on 6/05/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+1point
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Review 8 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Artisan Bistro is justplain great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Artisan Bistro continues to be our go to place for a good meal. It has a great patio and the menu changes as the seasons change. It's always full of fresh offerings. It's not a good place for kids. Tables are close together and it's a smallish dining establishment. People are often going out for an evening alone without their kids, the last thing they want to do is listen to yours."
Dined on 6/09/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
+1point
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Review 9 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Top notch in every way

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"That's simply what it was...the best. A brilliant chef, complimented by warm and capable staff."
Dined on 6/09/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
+1point
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Review 10 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent Lunch Spot

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My wife and I went to Artisan Bistro for lunch, hoping to find a nice neighborhood spot with great food that's not too "heavy". That's exactly what we found. The sandwiches were excellent, the wine list was solid, and the service was efficient yet not overbearing. We're looking forward to visiting again soon..."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
+1point
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Review 11 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Fast service

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I would give this restaurant a very high grade if they did not bring the food so quickly. We were looking forward to enjoying our meal and we were in and out in a blink of the eye. When we complained, our waiter said most diners like fast service. It is not inexpensive so it would be nice to take a breather between courses."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
-1point
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Review 12 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Dinner with friends

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food and service were excellent. Weather was very hot, so we ate inside, which is broken into small rooms which contributes to friendly, intimate feel and "just right" noise level."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch, special occasion
+2points
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Review 13 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Brunch Spot

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Brunch here is very good. it was nice to be able to sit outside on a beautiful day. French fries are the best! My husband was very pleased with his hamburger which was cooked perfectly to his taste. Our waiter was attentive and professional."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+2points
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Review 14 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good Service and a Great Bartender

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I invited two friends, one of whom was visiting from Los Angeles to Brunch. We had three of their "scrambles" for brunch, and everyone enjoyed the food. No morsels were left on the plates.
I remembered that I had torn a cocktail recipe out of one of those "in-flight" magazines. The drink was complex, and required Campari, one whole egg and demerara syrup. I asked the server, who was also the main bartender, to make the drink. To my surprise, he looked at the recipe, and said it would take him a few minutes to make the demerara syrup. It was perfect!
Service makes a difference, and so few restaurants or bartenders strive for perfection. I'm glad I found one such place, and one such bartender that does. I'LL BE BACK!"
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
+2points
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Review 15 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Still one of our favorite spots in the East Bay!"
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
+2points
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Review 16 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Friday evening

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We dined outside in the courtyard, which was very nice. Service was good, but not great. The food was very average, including my duck, which was a little tough. People certainly seem to enjoy Artisan Bistro, so perhaps we caught it on a bad night."
Dined on 5/31/2013
-3points
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Review 17 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A summer evening delight

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Artisan Bistro has acquired a well-deserved reputation for creative food and a discriminating wine list. The chief attraction beyond the food is the outdoor dining, which on warm and windless summer nights is just about perfect. Indoors is another matter, even on cool evenings. There are too many tables too close together and the noise level in the warren of dining rooms can be quite high. It helps to reserve an outdoor table or, better yet, to arrive early enough not only to procure an outdoor table but to have a choice among them."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
+3points
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Review 18 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Artisan Bistro is a lovely local restaurant with excellent food and service. Great for special occasions."
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+4points
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Review 19 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A New Favorite

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The staff is outstanding and the food is inventive. Great place for a nice long lunch."
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
+4points
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Review 20 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Long-Time Favorite

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/28/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We have enjoyed Artisan Bistro for brunch, lunch, and special-occasion dinners for a long time! It is our "go-to" place whenever we have guests."
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+4points
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Review 21 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Changed for the worse.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Made reservations for my wife's B'day with a note in the special request section for a quiet table and a cupcake with a candle or the like. We were seated between the main room and the smaller room, literally sticking out into the doorway. I can't believe it passes firecode impeding traffic. Zero ambiance with the overcrowded tables. Tiny portions and overpriced a la carte menu. The highpoint, our beet salad. The undercooked pork loin with bitter baby greens and minuscule duck breast on tasteless legumes were room temperature. No cake nor improv offered so I ordered deserts which were agreeable. The waiter mentioned the B'day as he presented the bill and a coupon for a glass of wine or a desert with the next meal. Maybe in the next life."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: notable wine list
-4points
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Review 22 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

enjoyed the lunch a lot

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"And all the special birthday attention for my friend was wonderful. A bit pricey so can't return too often."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for lunch, special occasion
+4points
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Review 23 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

5 star food & service, slow kitchen

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"When a sandwich and eggs benedict excel to the highest levels, the server & support staff operate perfectly...you expect the kitchen to produce the product sooner than the fifty minutes that we waited at 1:30 on last Saturday afternoon. First, this is our 2nd experience at Artisan Bistro, the 1st was dinner. All meals were fabulous...and we will return. In fact, we wish that they had a location in Pleasanton so we could visit more often. Some restaurants excel...There are layers of flavors and textures, ingredients that are wonderful. So simple...so perfect. We are hoping that the kitchen is able to deliver the food in a more timely manner."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+3points
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Review 24 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delightful dinner

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We hadn't been to Artisan Bistro for quite some time and just had a great meal there. The octopus starter (so tender and flavorful) and veal chop that I ordered were excellent! My husband enjoyed his potato soup and halibut too. The flavor in everything we ate was excellent. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is that the fries (which I always order!) weren't quite as crisp as they should have been (and usually are). I know it's a small thing, but I'm picky about my fries. The desserts too, were great! The deconstructed carrot cake is not your usual cloyingly sweet dessert. The service was relaxed, but very attentive.
Overall, I'm excited to go back!
"
Dined on 5/23/2013
+4points
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Review 25 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Our lunch was delightful and our server was superb. Tony (?) made it a memorable experience. We all agreed we should return often. We will find something to celebrate."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
+4points
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Review 26 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I love this place. Food is excellent and the service (Laura) was exemplary. We'd recommend it to anyone
Pat
"
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
0points
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Review 27 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've been there several times & am never disappointed. Fish tacos & lamb sandwich are delicious. Also had a wonderful cocktail with champagne. Will go back. Want to try the whole menu."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
+2points
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Review 28 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Shockingly good - better than Haven

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The attention to detail is exceptional - from presentation and service to innovative combination of flavors. From appetizer through dessert, not one dish for four different people was anything less than outstanding. Sous vide veal, lamb chops, scallops...wilted little gem salad, beet salad, Yukon gold potato soup...each one done as well or better than the 4 and 5-star restaurants I've had the pleasure of dining in in NY, SF and LA. Exceptional everything, minus the "precious" attitude that so often accompanies the same. Loved it more than Haven, Gary Danko and others of that ilk. Floored to have found it in a little house on a side street in Lafayette."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+2points
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Review 29 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The Waiter

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Quite honestly, though the food was outstanding, the wine list great, our best experience was with the waiter. The young man was as consummate stage actor, with all the attributes thereof.
Wonderful experience, food, wine and service.
"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
+3points
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Review 30 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Artisan Bistro is a true Neighborhood Gem! Everything from the drinks to food to service is spot on! They use very fresh and seasonal ingredients. We had prawn and arugula salad to start then the seared scallops w/ risotto and fish tacos. Everything was cooked perfectly with really tasty flavors. We went there for a friend's b-day and they add a special touch for special occasions - name on the menu, dessert with a candle, b-day card and menu as a keepsake..."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+3points
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Review 31 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Mixed bag

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We did not like our waiter, and that colored our experience. The dungeness crab salad was delicious, but small for the price. The chairs on the patio were uncomfortable after awhile. One person ordered a portabello mushroom sandwich, and about the time we were expecting our food to arrive, the waiter came to say that the kitchen was out of that item!
The waiter needs a slight attitude adjustment...he's somewhat adversarial."
Dined on 5/14/2013
0points
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Review 32 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A refreshing & memorable experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Artisan Bistro lives up to its noteriety. The brunch menu & ambience are a perfect duality nestled in a hidden excursion. A delightful encounter."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+3points
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Review 33 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a very pleasant Mother's Day brunch on the patio. The California Benedict was very good, the waiter steered us to a better wine and brought a sample of what we had chosen so we could compare--and see that his choice was better."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, great for lunch
+2points
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Review 34 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Give them applause!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"When Artisan Bistro opened I gave it a try - having been a customer of the previous establishment for many years. Blown away is an understatement. That is no cook in the kitchen - that is a chef!
I've been a customer ever since, happily sharing this gem with others. The food is excellent, totally not average. Leave all expectations outside, step in and expand your culinary horizon. Start with beet salad and begin the pleasure of working your way through the menu. It might take some time - a worthy gastronomical journey.
"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+3points
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Review 35 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Another spectacular soup--potato and spring onion. The Croque Madam was excellent too, as were the french fries. Artisan Bistro does not disappoint."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
+5points
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Review 36 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wow, right in Lafayette

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I live in Lafayette and have been wanting to go to Artisan Bistro for some time. Finally had lunch with firends/business associates. The food was incredible and the service outstanding. We sat outside (didn;t know they had a patio) and did not want lunch to end. Will defintely be back as often as I can."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
+6points
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Review 37 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We received excellent, professional service and the menu featured several unique and interesting choices. Our food was good, but we thought the prices were a bit high."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+3points
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Review 38 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Artisan

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 12/20/2012
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food is always good but the patio makes it just a bit better. The service inside or outside is also excellent. While we don't get there too often, its always a go to place if we want a quiet table for two in a nice setting."
Dined on 12/20/2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 39 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Too bad

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had my friend come from Layton for her birthday specifically
After reminding the waitresss three times she still forgot and brought the desert with no candle
Then explained she had 5 birthdays making my friend feel very unimportant and not at all special on her special day
His has turned a nice thing about the restaurant into an awful thing
The wait person is very burdened by e birthday obligation
"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
-4points
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Review 40 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous food and great service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I had an excellent meal at Artisan Bistro. I was one of the first customers at 5:30a and the place quickly filled up. They have a quite large outdoor dining area which was not in use the day we were there as the weather was just too cold. But we agreed, it would be a great place to come back in the summer for lunch or dinner.
Our food was simply excellent. I had the scallops with pearl couscous and my wife had a beef dish, the name of which I cannot recall. The waiter said it was the California equivalent to Kobe beef and he was right. It was melt in your mouth tender, cooked perfectly and had a bone marrow sauce on top that was out of this world. My scallops were perfect as well.
All in all a wonderful place. We'll be b"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic
+7points
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Review 41 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

It is always fun to read the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It is always fun to read the top of the menu and see that they've acknowledged someone for a birthday or anniversary. Such a nice personal touch. The food is always delicious, beautifully served and the portions aren't too large."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
+6points
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Review 42 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had not been to dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had not been to dinner here in some time but we'll be back!!! All the courses were excellent-wonderful presentation and delicious. The service was a bit slow for a small restaurant with several servers, though. This is a charming place to dine in the east bay."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2002
+4points
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Review 43 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I loved the outdoor seating

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I loved the outdoor seating and the service. My crab salad was quite ordinary though. I was disappointed with it."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
-2points
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Review 44 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Return treat!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Came once before for lunch with children and grandchildren - loved the attention and ambience. Return trip for anniversary dinner reinforced previous experience: attentive service, great food and overall very good experience. Rabbit three-ways, crab in avocado, scallops and lamb chop all excellent. Thank you so much!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
+4points
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Review 45 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A key model for nirvana-like

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A key model for nirvana-like eating."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2009
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
+5points
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Review 46 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Hidden gem continues to impress

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food here is amazing and seems to be getting better every time i go back. Friendly and very efficient wait staff too. Love this place!"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
+6points
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Review 47 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful cuisine, yet the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful cuisine, yet the service was a bit spotty. Most likely due to an enormous lunch group which arrived just prior to our table and an unfortunate gentleman who was having a heated argument with his date in absentia, via iPhone and texts.
Waiters, diners et al were involved.
"
Dined on 04/11/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
+2points
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Review 48 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

I have been to the Artisan

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I have been to the Artisan Bistro several times, but this time was a huge disappointment. First of all, it was cold on this Sunday evening. I asked the waiter to please adjust the temperature, but it continued to be unpleasant. My guest had her shawl wrapped around her like a blanket and I kept my coat on the whole time. My feet were cold!
We had a 7:00 reservation and were a bit early, so I was not happy when the waiter informed me that they were out of the fish entree. So I had to switch to the chicken. We started with a crab and avocado appetizer, which was generous but bland. Then we both received our hen stuffed with sausage entrees and again felt that the flavor was bland and boring. Considering the prices, very disappointing
"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2008
-4points
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Review 49 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delightfully delicious

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Took my sister out for her birthday. She had halibut, my wife had rack of lamb and I had scallops. All were exceptionally delicious. Medium size portions. We all had artichoke soup, which was outstanding. It was a bit pricey but worth it for special occasions. $190 out the door for 3 soups, 3 entrees and 2 desserts. No alcohol."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
+6points
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Review 50 for Artisan Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Enjoyed the lunch entree --

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Enjoyed the lunch entree -- fresh and beautifully prepared."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
+3points
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