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Bibou Reviews List
Bibou
Bibou is a small French Byob located in Bella Vista. Exclusively using fresh products, Chef Pierre Calmels offers dishes such as "Pieds de Porc" (pigs' feet), escargots, as well as many other traditional French dishes.
Bibou is cash only.
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Bibou is cash only.
87 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.7
/
5
Rating Breakdown 87 reviews
5 stars
(68)
4 stars
(15)
3 stars
(3)
2 stars
(0)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.7
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.7
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(73)
- special occasion(54)
- neighborhood gem(52)
- romantic(30)
- hot spot(12)
- good for groups(6)
Bibou Reviews List
Review 1 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Will Return Again
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I came back and will go back again. I don't often return to a restaurant but Bibou is different. My first visit was wonderful but there were things on the menu that I wanted to try. My second time I tried a few different dishes and they told me that I should make a reservation to return. It's friendly, and the chef turns out wonderful dishes."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 2 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Simply amazing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"One of the best meals I've had anywhere. The food was excellent and the service impeccable while winningly warm. A tiny BYOB that you cannot help loving. I will be returning every chance I get."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Charming & delightful
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent staff, warm & inviting. Changed our 7pm dining table reservation to 5pm @ 2 seat bar. Extremely accommodating & pleasant. Very tight quarters but enjoyed the nice repartee with all. Don't know how they do it. Wonderful scallop in shell appetizer , dorade in light foamy broth, floating island. Not a fan of bone marrow as it was mostly breadcrumbs albeit good flavor. Sweetbreads were a little thick, meaty would have preferred a crispy version."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfect meal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Amazing experience at this tiny byob. Went on Sunday night for their 4 course prix fixe. Include chilled Cucumber soup, appetizer (had foie gras and escargots) entrees (scallops and veal sweetbreads) and desserts (floating pyramids). Everything was amazing, foie gras was one of the best things I've tasted. Would definitely recommend for a date, there was also a group if 12 that night so apparently this tiny place can accommodate groups as well. Service was great, and head chef Pierre coming out to greet us at the end of the meal was a nice touch. I am very much looking forward to coming back here"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 5 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"As always, our favorite place for special occasions. Trruly wonderful food and lovely, gracious hosts."
Dined on 5/01/2013
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Review 6 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It's always a pleasure to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It's always a pleasure to dine at Bibou."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2008
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Review 7 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bibou provides a consistently
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bibou provides a consistently wonderful meal. Menu has meat and fish choices prepared a variety of ways so something for everyone unless you are a vegan (but this is French inspired cooking). Dining space is at a premium and tables are close, but the appropriately attentive staff makes the experience intimate and warm. Chef taking time to talk to patrons is a lovely plus."
Dined on 04/18/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 8 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
By far my favorite restaurant!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"By far my favorite restaurant!!"
Dined on 04/11/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 9 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food and service were
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food and service were amazing! The chef even came out at one point to talk to us. Can't wait to go back!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 10 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
3 of 4 of us had a wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"3 of 4 of us had a wonderful eating experience. I finally ate escargots that I thought I could trust --have never tried them anywhere else. My wife's caille was a little pink and the rice with the dish was not cooked enough. Our friend's caille, he liked a lot. My fish dinner had a wonderful carrot emulsion and very nice tasting black barley. Very good desserts."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 11 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
wish it would be easier to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"wish it would be easier to get a reservation but eating at 5 is not so bad
since the meal was outstanding"
since the meal was outstanding"
Dined on 03/30/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 12 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We were greeted at the door
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were greeted at the door by Charlotte and welcomed into a cozy little bistro. Our server was top notch and we enjoyed each course of the tasting menu. Highly recommended little BYOB for a special night out."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Cash only - BYOB This is
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Cash only - BYOB
This is one of the best restaurants I have ever been to. The food is amazing and clearly made with love and passion. The staff are friendly and attentive and the chef greets every one of his customers when they've completed their meal to get feedback. It's difficult to get a reservation but is well worth the wait once you do."
This is one of the best restaurants I have ever been to. The food is amazing and clearly made with love and passion. The staff are friendly and attentive and the chef greets every one of his customers when they've completed their meal to get feedback. It's difficult to get a reservation but is well worth the wait once you do."
Dined on 03/21/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 14 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bibou was truly sensational!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Dining at Bibou was truly sensational! The Foie gras and bone marrow were amazing. I've had Foie in some of the best restaurants in the world and Bibou is now the front runner. The attentive service and intimate atmosphere compliment the delectable menu. Don’t forget it is BYOB; this gives you the luxury of bringing your own wine to pair with your courses. To top off the evening the Chef visits every table and personally thanks you for dining at his Restaurant. We can’t wait to dine at Bibou again and introduce our friends to this French gem!"
Dined on 03/22/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 15 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My favorite restaurant in
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My favorite restaurant in Philadelphia. Period."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 16 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The pigs foot is one of those
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The pigs foot is one of those dishes you will never forget!"
Dined on 03/10/2013
2010
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Review 17 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We LOVE Bibou!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We LOVE Bibou!!! Absolutely everything was exceptional from the moment we walked in the door until long after we left. I can't say enough about Chef's special "Bone Marrow" dish and my husband's lamb shank was perfect. We didn't leave a single bite of anything on our plates. We can't wait to return!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 18 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I feel as if I am in Paris
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I feel as if I am in Paris whenever I go."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 19 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A wonderful night
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This might have been the best duck I have ever had. The dinner, from the consomme to the dessert was perfect. Chef came out and greeted every diner. I felt as if we were being entertained by friends who cared that we loved what we ate and wanted us to feel welcomed. If you have not been to Bibou, go."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 20 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food is amazing. The chef comes around to all of the tables after your meal and is very personable. We loved the foie gras and the terrine. Everything was perfectly done. They offer you a decanter for your wine, which is a nice touch and will pour you a few glasses while you wait for your table if the previous table sits for too long. I highly recommend. I did have to stalk open table for my Sunday Prix Fixe reservation because they book up in less than a day."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 21 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Well worth the 3 mo wait.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"Well worth the 3 mo wait. So good. Fish excellent as is service. The chef is so personable as is his wife. Congrats to new baby."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2010
Special Features: late-night find, great for lunch
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Review 22 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Beautiful food made by a warm chef
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything that we ate was fantastic. I would especially recommend the escargots and the pied de porc. The porc is one of the best dishes that I've ever had the pleasure of eating. My mother also ordered the swordfish and she loved how tender it was. The service was excellent and, to top it all off, Chef Pierre Calmels came out at the end of the meal, shook our hands and spoke with us. He's such a sweet guy. This exchange sent the experience over the top. I now understand why this restaurant is considered one of the absolute best of Philadelphia. Beautiful food and warm, genuine people in the dining room and in the kitchen make this little restaurant a true gem. I can't wait to return for another meal."
Dined on 02/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 23 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Superb~
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent Food, Service as always! Best French Food in the Delaware Valley!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 24 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Where's the beef?
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I went on Valentines day with another couple si it was crowded. The service and atmosphere were lovely. The waiter was knowledgeable and friendly; the chef spoke with us and others after the meal. The menu was wonderful and the food served was outstanding. I had the escargot to start and my companions had the soup, both of which were excellent. For dinner each couple had the rack of lamb for 2 for $29.00 each. The lamb was ordered medium and was served medium rare: that was fine with me but not with one of the four of us, and it was not what was ordered. But, the real problem was the extremely small portion size: two lamb chops each. The men in our party were unhappy and I felt at least three chops each would have been more appropriate"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 25 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
C'est magnifique!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"C'est magnifique! Coincidentally a block off the Italian Market, this cozy French restaurant for foodies is tucked into what seems to be a tiny converted house with a dining area no larger than a big living room. So accept that you'll hear conversations from the other tables and they'll be able to eavesdrop on you... sit back, and enjoy the meal. Bring your own favorite bottle of French red, since it's BYOB, which helps save on cost. We felt welcomed by the staff the moment we walked in, with fantastic service to go along with the gastronomic excellence. The chef even came out to personally thank us (in French!) He says the menu changes weekly. Be adventurous and get a staple like escargots, that's why you came! Perfect ristretto too."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 26 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very intimate. The chef was
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very intimate. The chef was personable and made the rounds to each table for an introduction. The food was outstanding. I highly recommend the foie gras."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic food. It is like
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Fantastic food. It is like being in Paris. Wonderful service. The chef comes out to greet each table, and makes one feel even more at home. You know the food is going to be spectacular when you start with the baguette and butter. The place is small and close, which decreases the ambiance rating, but this is minor."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 28 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Equal to or better than a
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Equal to or better than a number of Two Michelin Star restaurants we have experienced in France and California. Food preparation and presentation close to perfect."
Dined on 02/06/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 29 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent, tiny BYOB. Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent, tiny BYOB. Food was great service wonderful and prices reasonable. There are only 10 tables that fill quickly"
Dined on 02/01/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 30 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
After 10 visits over the years
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"After 10 visits over the years we have yet to have a meal that was less than 5 stars."
Dined on 01/31/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 31 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Bibou offers a menu for a
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bibou offers a menu for a unique dining experience."
Dined on 01/30/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 32 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great food and service traditional
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"great food and service traditional French food carefully prepared by a talented chef worth the wait for reservations the byob policy allows you to bring great wine accompaniments at reasonable prices bring cash....no credit cards wonderful experience will return whenever possible"
Dined on 01/30/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 33 for Bibou
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best food in Philly
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely amazing! Great food great service lovely ambience. Well don't Pierre and team! We will be back soon"
Dined on 01/24/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Bibou
Based on the average of (54) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
6 out of 7 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic