Brunch at Bistrouge 02-06-2010

Location: 432 E. 13th St.
Time: 3pm
People: Mum, RB and myself

Feelings: On a wickedly wintery Saturday afternoon, RB and I took Mum to our favorite bistro, Bistrouge in East Village. We never visited there for brunch before, so we did not know what to expect. But as soon as I suggested to RB that we should take her to Bistrouge, he could not get their juicy mussels and frites out of his head. Unfortunately for RB, their brunch menu was completely different from the dinner menu. Afterall, who would eat mussels and frites for brunch!? Except RB.

In tears of disappointment, he ordered the Turkish Breakfast ($12, sunny side egg, Turkish sausage, feta cheese, mixed olives, tomatoes, toast). "I'm glad they didn't have mussels and frites," he said after he started eating the Turkish Breakfast. He enjoyed the delicious bread and combination of light flavors. The tomatoes were incredibly fresh, and he had a hard time saving them from Mum and myself. The sausage was a bit dry, and the egg was a bit overcooked but overall tasty.

I ordered grilled vegetables ($8, with herb ricotta on toast). Who would order just some grilled vegetables for brunch? You may not think, but this was one of the best brunch dishes I have ever had. It was hands down the best grilled vegetables I have had in my life. When you see the dish, it looks very simple: perfect amount of sensible grilled vegetables and two pieces of toast. The green peppers and mushrooms were amazingly juicy and flavorful. They were perfectly cooked and seasoned and untainted with sauce or oils. I would eat this dish everyday--and did I mention it was just plain grilled vegetables!?

Mum ordered the same grilled vegetables but in a sandwich form ($9, with buffalo mozzarella and pesto on ciabatta bread, side of potato wedges). She was also stunned by the flavor and freshness of grilled vegetables. She could not get over how scrumptious the green peppers were. The ciabatta bread soaked up all the juice from the veggies and cheese, resulting in a sophisticated yet damn good sandwich.

I am always impressed by Bistrouge's food. Bistrouge's brunch tends to be more simple but really highlights the fresh ingredients and perfect execution. Bravo Bistrouge for continuously serving us beautiful meals in moderate price!