Lüke

Description:

• A fully realized bistro concept from much-lauded local chef John Besh, and a new dining locale that has hit the ground running. It's hearty and authentic, but not stodgy French and German brassiere fare. Menu descriptions don't give the true picture -- it really must be seen to be appreciated, so snoop at your neighbor's plate for possibilities. There's so much to try here it's hard to narrow down a choice for you. Flamen küche is an Alsatian tort topped with chunks of bacon and caramelized onions. The seasonal Badischer Kalbskopf is a warm calves' head terrine -- a layer of translucent, gelatinous savory topped by a tart tomato salad, and thus, an entire new experience in salads. The choucroûte maison includes house-made sausages, pork belly, cochon de lait with cherry mustard and is, in short, one fine plate of pig. The big juicy cheeseburger, with caramelized onions and thick-cut bacon on a onion roll, will have you swear off fast-food imitations forever. The shrimp and grits demolishes other, dry versions around town. The handsome bistro is quite popular at lunch, no doubt in part to the $15 express lunch special, an entree of the day plus a cup of soup. Save room for the mini profiteroles filled with warm chocolate custard.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010