Chris and I enjoyed our first dinner at Bistro de Leon over a year ago. I still remember the beef tenderloin with candied shallots & red wine sauce Chris ordered- tender, flavorful, comforting. And the mashed potatoes were amazing… for this Southern girl to say someone’s mashed potatoes are good is truly a compliment!

My favorite for lunch is the smoked salmon sandwich- tomatoes and dill creme fraiche spread on a house-made baguette ($8.50). We also had a brie and walnut on baguette (tasty but caramelized or spiced nuts would make it amazing!), sandwich provencal with goat cheese & pistou and a linguine. Yes, linguine. My 4 yo begged for kids’ pasta at the french place– there’s one in every crowd! (That kids’ meals come with house made ice cream certainly sweetened the deal.)
Bistro de Leon carries illy coffee, which was better than the Mocha. We pulled our treats out of our to-go bag as we rode the Old Town Trolley around town and were the envy of the car! Dining in for breakfast is still on our to-do list- but I’d wager any amount that it is memorable. {Did I mention what an amazing chocolate croissant I had?}
GPS Address: 12 Cathedral Place, St Augustine, 32084
Hours: Open 10 – 10 weekdays (closed Wed) and by 9 on weekends for breakfast. Call to confirm. 810-2100
**Update: I’m sad to report that Bistro de Leon is closed.**
I have had many defining culinary experiences in my life. From my first slice of NY Sicilian pizza to my first bite of Thai green curry. Traveling the world I have tried many things, but few land on the “defining” list. This last Tuesday, on the advice of Allie at Simply St Augustine, my wife and I visited Bistro de Leon . We had a quaint table in the front window and began with some lovely Grenache. And then it happened – that moment that hits the senses and memory and joins the database of unforgettable experiences – the Onion Soup! This soup is out of bounds! A large croc of broth, handmade French bread and so much cheese that we thought we had closed our eyes and woke up in Wisconsin. There is not much more I can say besides, get the soup! At all costs get the soup! No, I am serious, get the soup!
So glad you enjoyed it! Bistro de Leon is one of my favorites- glad to share it with you! 🙂 Now it’s my turn to enjoy *your* favorite! French Onion Soup will be on my tab next time!
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