Bicyclette
Miyako Hotel Special Royale – Japanese Gin, Curaçao, Pineapple, Lemon, Sparkling Wine
Baguette, Duck Liver Mousse, Blackberry Peppercorn Gelée
Burgundy Escargots En Croute, Garlic Parsley Butter
Gougere, Brillant Savarin, Medjool Date
Onion Soup Gratinee, Comté Cheese
Braised Pigs Feet Croquette, Lentilles Du Puy, Soft Egg, Frisee Aux Lardons
Cuyama Farms Apple Tart, Cinnamon Ice Cream, Salted Caramel
Riz au Lait, Coconut, Pineapple, Lime, Pomegranate Arils, Streusel
As a SoCal native Walter Manzke’s cooking has always relied on the state’s best Ingredients, and after years of work with Joachim Splichal followed by Bastide, Church & State then Republique it might be argued that there is no more qualified Chef in Los Angeles to run a Parisian Bistro like Bicyclette.
Located on the ground floor of the building where Manzke resides, a 1* Michelin Tasting Menu above, Bicyclette instead focuses on casual fare featuring faultless execution and great Ingredients made to taste as they do in Lyon and Paris.
A low-slung space below street level, dim lights focusing attention on a spotless kitchen next to the bar, guests entering Bicyclette are greeted warmly by each staff member they encounter even before looking at the menu or ordering a beverage.
A buzzy space without being too loud, just as it is pricey without breaking the bank, diners are directed to a list of daily specials in addition to the monthly menu which includes a top-tier Baguette from Margarita Manzke intended to be eaten with a selection of Spreads.
Smart to order a Cocktail, Miyako Hotel Special Royale a complex sipper with lots of Herbs and Citrus, Hors d’oeuvres priced per piece are highlighted by individual Snails in Puff Pastry plus delicate Choux currently filled with Brillant Savarin topped in Medjool Date Puree.
Not about to forgo “French” Onion Soup complete with a wdge of Bread and caramelized Comté the choice of Plats saw both Duck and Quail lose out to a peerless Croquette of Pig’s Trotters with Lentils and Salade Lyonnaise.
Turning Pastry over to Margarita, her work at Republique a city-wide phenomenon still, Tarte Tatin finds itself magnified by Cuyama Farms Apples plus Salty Caramel while Rice Pudding is fluffy like those in old Paris Bistros with Fruits added for texture and a hint of the tropics.
www.bicyclettela.com