Leunig's Bistro - The Panache of Paris and the Value of Vermont - by Andrew Rothberg

If you are looking for authentic French cuisine and do not want to spend thousands of dollars on airfare - Leunig's is your best bet! When taking your first step into Leunig's Bistro from Church Street, you feel as though you have suddenly been transported into a stunning cafe in Paris. The walls are filled with great art work, complimenting the exceptionally relaxed atmosphere. The night we were there a great Jazz duo was playing, further, enhancing the feel of Paris. Dim lights surrounding the bar make it a very intimate setting for couples, complete with an assorted selection of top shelf liquor. The bar has at least four frosty local micro-brews waiting on tap. During spring and summer months Leunig's is able to accommodate the largest outside seating area in downtown Burlington.

The forthcoming service at Leunig's is beyond exceptional. A staff member is always within reach for all your dining needs. Our waitress, Samantha, was extremely knowledgeable and efficient. The manager, Bob, was extremely friendly and very professional. The wine list is outstanding and amongst the finest in the Burlington area. It features your classic to-die-for French wines along with a comprehensive list of dessert wines.

The delightful rolls are accompanied by butter from local farm-raised cattle, and the finest aged olive oil you can find in Vermont. The Orange Soda Tempura Soft Shell Crab and Shrimp Cocktail with a Pepperdew and Cocktail Sauce with Baby Greens appetizer is a meal in itself. The quality of the shrimp and crab attest to Leunig's commitment to serving the freshest products possible. During the hot summer months consider ordering the refreshing chilled Gazpacho with Cilantro, Chive Oil and Crispy Chips. It's a delicious, inventive, sweet variation of the classic.

Words cannot describe the luscious Herb Marinated Lamb Loin properly complimented by Tomato Cous-Cous Pilaf, Baby Carrots and a Curried Mint Pea Coulis. After spending six months in New Zealand, I consider myself a lamb connoisseur, but I truly was blown away. The chefs take pride in preparing their meat exactly as requested and they do not disappoint. The Stuffed and Roasted Free Range Half Chicken and Grilled Steak Frites show why Leunig's is one of the longest running restaurants on Church Street. Vegetarians cannot lose with the mouthwatering Root Vegetable Stuffed Artichoke with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Chili Glazed Tofu, Sauteed Baby Spinach and a Citrus Aioli.

The desserts are no less than phenomenal including selections such as Cheesecake and their signature Creme Brule. There are an assorted list of coffees and espressos that compliment the meal nicely. A dining buddy of mine told me that the espresso he ordered was one of the best he ever had and he had just returned from a one year hiatus in France!

Overall Leunig's dining experience was exceptional, truly earning two thumbs up. It is the best place to impress a first date or visitors from out of town. The restaurant is child friendly and is excellent at catering to their specific needs.

Leunig's Bistro is the best place in Burlington to see and be seen. Open since 1980, see for yourself why Leunig's Bistro is one of the longest continually operating gathering spots in town.

Leunig's Bistro is located at 115 Church Street - Monday through Friday Leunig's opens for lunch at 11AM. Saturday and Sunday Brunch starts at 9AM. Leunig's serves dinner 'till 10PM Sunday -Thursday, and 'till 11PM Friday and Saturday. 802-863-3759. Visit their website at http://www.leunigsbistro.com.