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La Sen Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
La Sen Bistro
7.7
French bistro known for holiday prix-fixe evenings and classic preparations. Expect traditional plates with careful plating in a compact North Main dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Breast (prix-fixe rotation), Pork Chop with Garlic Confit, Escargot de Bourgogne
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Occasional prix-fixe nights deliver classic French courses at fair pricing.
Who should go: Classic French fans and prix-fixe seekers
When to visit: Holiday or special prix-fixe dates—reserve early
What to order: Duck breast, pork chop, escargot
Insider tip: Watch their socials for prix-fixe announcements and set menus.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking available nearby; limited free spots after 6pm on Locust and North Main. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual—button-downs or blouses recommended; jeans acceptable if paired with nice shoes.
Noise level: Moderate—comfortable for conversation, but background chatter rises during dinner service.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly encouraged for prix-fixe nights.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; tables often available until 1 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several composed salads and pasta dishes can be made meat-free on request.
Vegan options: Limited—ask staff to adjust sides or sauces; entrées generally butter-based.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free options available for mains and some desserts; staff knowledgeable about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the cozy bistro lighting and attentive service make it a relaxed, romantic setting without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights, but weekend and prix-fixe evenings book out; walk-ins may find limited bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Best suited for adults or older teens; no kids’ menu, and the quiet, intimate room caters more to couples and business diners.
Best For
Better for: Refined plating and classic French execution at lower prices than comparable tasting menus downtown.
Skip if: You prefer modern fusion or lively, high-energy dining; this is a calm, traditional experience.
La Sen Bistro
8.4
Intimate downtown bistro focused on French classics executed with care—think duck confit, boeuf bourguignon, and escargot. Locals use it for polished date nights and quietly celebratory dinners with attentive service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Boeuf Bourguignon, Confit de Canard (Duck Confit), Moules Poulettes with Frites
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A tight French menu cooked with classic technique in a cozy room.
Who should go: Couples and classic French enthusiasts
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7 for easier seating
What to order: Duck confit, boeuf bourguignon, French onion soup
Insider tip: Bar seats are the fastest way to snag a last-minute dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on North Main and Civic Drive can be tight after 6pm; nearby garages like Locust Street or Broadway Plaza typically have spaces within a short walk.
Dress code: Smart casual; button-downs or blouses fit the vibe, though jeans are acceptable if paired with something polished.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation friendly even during peak dinner hours, with a low hum from the small dining room and bar.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation during prime hours 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options, including salads, soups, and pasta dishes that can be adapted upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—kitchen can modify a few vegetable sides or salads, but not a strong focus.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodation; many entrées can be made gluten-free and servers are well-informed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—cozy lighting, attentive service, and French comfort food make it ideal for an intimate, low-stress first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually possible early in the evening or at the bar, but reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the intimate setting and adult-focused menu make it better suited for adults or older teens.
Best For
Better for: Classic French technique and romantic ambiance—perfect for refined date nights or business dinners.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quick, casual meal or need extensive vegan choices; opt for nearby modern bistros instead.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 8:30pm
Wednesday5pm - 8:30pm
Thursday5pm - 8:30pm
Friday5pm - 9pm
Saturday5pm - 9pm
Sunday5pm - 8:30pm