Bistro Provence

Great service! Fantastic good! So many gluten free choices available too! Definitely one of my favourite places to eat!

Always impressed with the Bistro. Never disappointed. Absolute jewel in the middle of Okotoks.

Dinner here began with a spur of the moment reservation the night before. But being mid week, and seeking a little later time slot, it was no problem getting in.
We ended up with a table for two at the front window, overlooking the (mostly) historic North Railway street. With large snowflakes falling past the streetlights in front of us… it set the stage for a memorable meal.
This casual French restaurant is itself an historic building, an old post office built in the 1880’s. Somewhere along the way it was converted into a restaurant, but it definitely maintains it’s heritage roots. From the hammered tin siding on the outside, to the décor within.
The dining area itself was a smaller, more «intimate» room, with maybe 8 tables.
Our server turned out to be the owner, who did share details later in the meal about himself, and the restaurant.
It turns out he moved his family to Alberta to assume ownership of Bistro Provence not that long ago, and his pride and determination in realizing a dream was apparent.
However, the core players behind the scenes have been established here for some time.
Looking online at their website, the executive chef hails from France (where he trained), and has traveled the world, cooking in the French Riviera, Switzerland, Dubai, Thailand, and New York City.
In more recent years, became the Executive Chef at the Priddis Golf Course.
I’m guessing at some point he opted for a slower paced, quieter, more personal cooking environment; and this place is perfect.
So on this night, it was Duck Magret with Saskatoon berries (berry veal jus), and a sesame crusted halibut in a creamy sauce for the mains… but of course, there was wine, great appetizers, and dessert!
It really was all very good.
And I should note, the owner told us that when you make a reservation, the table is yours for the night. They don’t book anyone after you, so you are free to dine and chat without any pressure to leave at all.
I thought that was pretty cool.
Anyhow, I’m always happy to support local family run businesses, especially if they excel. Like the Longview Steakhouse (see my review), some fantastic dining can be experienced in these smaller communities!
Unilocal’s 30 Day Challenge 2012 — ¹⁄₃₀