Quiche from Bonjour Photo: Brenda C. Hill
Bon Jour…How delightful to discover a brand new French cafe on my favorite island of Siesta Key close to Sarasota. Siesta’s soft sugar white sands and clear turquoise waters were voted the best beach in the nation this year. This week I was on the key three times, so far, mainly to feast at the new Bonjour Cafe. Our team has a special fondness for true southern French cuisine.
Reminiscent of the bistros in France enjoyed by the Hill Team, Bonjour is small, charming and very authentic. The cuisine is fresh and natural, featuring all of my favorites such as quiches, croissants, crepes and soups, all made from lovingly from scratch by chef/co-owner. Marie.
Her husband and co-owner, Thierry ,greets locals and visitors for breakfast, brunch, lunch and more.
Brenda's New Office Cafe on Siesta Key Photo: Brenda C. Hill
I usually bring my notebook and iphone to enjoy cafe au laits or a chocolate viennois with whipped cream. My companions raved over the smoked salmon quiche served with roasted potatoes (then sauteed in evoo) and one of the eight seasonal salads served with the tastiest of dressings. I mentioned to Marie that she might consider selling it and she replied “We do.” It is made with Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, salt and pepper and organic Greek olive oil. I tried it at home, but it didn’t taste as delectable. The secrets to her rich, yet pillow light smoked salmon quiche are nutmeg, fresh eggs and cream and Swiss cheese. I will follow up with the actual recipes, which change according to season. Also see my review in Trip Advisor. I gave the service, food and atmosphere a rare very good/excellent rating.
Since Thierry and Marie owned a restaurant in my favorite Provence village for 20 years, it is no wonder that I feel so much “at home” in their authentic bistro. I enjoy hearing French spoken while listening to Edith Piaf. Maybe the part is choosing one of their baguette sandwiches with Brie and Prosciutto to take to the beach for a French picnic. That, the sparkling wine mimosas with fresh Florida orange juice .
Only open for a few weeks, locals and international travelers are filling up the 40 seats fast. I generally wait a year before reviewing a new restaurant. No need, this one will be here for a long time. It was Thierry and Marie’s dream have a small cafe on Siesta, as it is mine to return to Provence. Now I only have to stroll down Ocean Street from the beach in my flip flops for a true taste of France. In fact, I think I will go today because I haven’t tried the blue cheese spinach quiche yet. Maybe a cold Kronenbourg 1664 will hit spot after walking those warm white sands.
Bonjour French Cafe
5214 Ocean Boulevard
Siesta Key – Sarasota, Fl. 34242
Open 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM Daily
Brenda C. Hill
International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
