Bess Bistro
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 477-2377
- Price:
- $$
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 2p-11p, Sun 10:30a-2:30p
Editorial Review for Bess Bistro – by Tara Hall
In Short
Bess' understated exterior makes the lower-level eatery almost invisible to those unaware of its location; the tastefully labeled brick-hued awning that covers the staircase is the only clue. In-the-know patrons experience an elegantly casual atmosphere that's more Southern charm than uptown ritziness. The menus vary based on the time of day and run the gamut of American comfort food--from daily specials such as hearty meat loaf and flaky pot pie to filet mignon and steak frite.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoYes, an actress owns this place. But please respect the printed request that cameras remain out of the bistro.
What to DrinkIf the extensive wine list doesn't appeal to you, try one of Bess' specialty cocktails, like the Red Light martini or the Bess champagne cocktail.
Historic SpaceCare was taken to preserve the building's historic charm, yet added touches include the custom-made pewter bar, pecan woodwork and intricate etched glass.
User Reviews for Bess Bistro
05/07/2008 Posted by dasCSreview
debated on going, since reviews look like "love it!" or "won't go back" and little in between. Sadly we will fall into the latter category. Our server acted like it was Day1 - didn't know how to pour champagne and knew even less about it. brought the bottle but no ice bucket - got the bucket after a sloppy pour and included two cup of ice that the bottle sat on - not surrounded by ice/water. We poured our ice water into the bucket then waited 12 minutes for her to return with more ice water for drinking. (Plus, they were out of Moet&Chandon at 6pm at night, and they're right across the parking lot from a wine seller?) Cajun shrimp app was good but the steak was tough, and when dessert was served with soup spoons the comment from our waitress was she "didn't want to go back down the stairs and grabbed the best she could find." Incredible. SANDY - IT DOESN'T TAKE MUCH TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY - THIS WAS PATHETIC. YOUR PLACE NEEDS GOOD HELP AND SOON.
Pros: AMBIANCE
Cons: waitstaff/service or lack thereof; food was just ok
05/05/2008 Posted by hautebrion53
I have been to Bess 4 times now and, like other reviewers WANT to love it, but just can't. I took some out of town relatives there for Sunday "lunch" since the placard outside said bunch AND lunch-only to find out after we were seated (with our tepid cups of coffee) that it was bruch only. We got past that and were given warmer cups of coffee and place our orders. 40 minutes later we were still waiting-for eggs. There was no apology or real concern among any of the staff members. They acted as though everything was totally normal. Definitely my last visit.
Pros: Ambiance, location
Cons: Poor service, limited menu
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