Bistro Marquee

We had reservations for dinner on September 21 @ 6:00. We were planning on a lovely evening with dinner and the Opera Gala. It was a nightmare. We were seated promptly and then didn't see anyone for at least 15 to 20 minutes. The server finally took our drink order and then we ordered dinner. It was another 10 minutes before we got our drinks. Then we waited and waited. The server asked me if I would like my salad served first, and I said "yes". We could tell other tables were not be served either. The poor server was running trying to take care of far too many tables. Finally my husband said something to the server to get things moving. We had to be at the Opera @ 7:30. it wasn't until 6:45 that our dinner was served. It was beautifully presented and delicious, but cold. A "cold" steak is not the best. No time to send it back. Then my salad was served!!! Never during the time that we were there, were we asked if we needed anything. We will not go back. The sad thing is, this restaurant is the perfect venue for theatre goers, and then they operate like this!

A bistro /ˈbiːstroʊ/, sometimes spelled bistrot, is, in its original Parisian incarnation, a small restaurant serving moderately priced simple meals in a modest setting. Bistros are defined mostly by the foods they serve. French home-style cooking, and slow-cooked foods like cassoulet, a bean stew, are typical.

The Portland "Happy Hour Guidebook" rates it a Perfect Ten! ** 1.) Excellent food and lots of it, and at a good discount too (executive chef Rick Widmayer hails from both Mother's and Screen Door) ** 2.) Quality drink choices (especially in wine, and with growlers to go!) ** 3.) Very pleasant atmosphere outside on the charming and relaxing courtyard patio (former Carafe space), and inside at the contemporary bistro with cushioned booths. H A P P Y H O U R : 4:00-7:00pm Mon-Fri ** Food: $2.00-$9.00 French/wine bar basics and specialties with an occasional creole spin: fresh oysters, baguettes, grilled veggies, fries, fritters, steak bites, lamb meatballs, shrimp & grits, meat and cheese plates, pasta, fried chicken, po' boys and salads.