Best Casual French 2010

Who can resist Andrey Durbach’s impossibly sound and happily robust prix fixe offerings?” said one judge of Cambie Street boîte Pied-à-Terre (Gold). “Lunch at $25 is an absolute steal,” said another, “and the dinner menu is equally appealing.” “Solid, unapologetically French classics that belong on any serious bistro menu—steak frites, crispy roast chicken, rabbit in mustard sauce—always nicely executed and well-priced.” The judges also had kind words for West Vancouver’s La Régalade (“rich, tasty, and good value—a recipe for success”) and Lumière sibling db Bistro Moderne (“a sleek, sophisticated, buzzy room offering sophisticated, yummy comfort food—the pork cheek tortellini is to die for”). Honourable Mentions to approachable bistro Les Faux Bourgeois (“marvellous steak frites”) and Yaletown’s Provence Marinaside.