Charismatic Charm Complements Cu

Charismatic Charm Complements Cuisine of the Sun

Exciting current happening at this sophisticated French restaurant in Laguna’s Boat Canyon is the emergence of Picayo Bistro, the sophisticated restaurant’s sparkling new cocktail lounge which divides the intimate entry patio from the formal Continental style dining room. A sparkling crystalline bar contrasted with cushy black leather seating beckons to the recently introduced lounge menu of petite dishes and to live entertainment which prevails on designated evenings. These tempting tastes allow for enticing samplings of the main bill of fare, each item a mere $4 to $7. Chef Bijan further has just conceived a stimulating tasting dinner showcasing smaller portions of appetizer, entree, dessert, thus culminating in an inexpensive and deliciously diversified repast.

Featuring a mere ten appetizers and as many lunch and dinner selections, Bijan’s somewhat abbreviated menu is surprisingly affordable while offering a remarkable variety of taste sensations. The innovatve Picayo Purse, for example, is a hobo style crepe wrapping of shrimp/ mushroom/artichoke heart morsels tied on top with a tiny veggie string. With the inclusion of a green salad and grilled bread accompanying such starters as garlic/butter sautéed frog legs, he blesses us with an impressive first course combination of appetizer and salad. As no one does sauces more superbly than the French, all those tempting starters-- escargots baked on garlic butter…trio of roasted eggplant, ratatouille and hummus--become provocative palate ticklers,

Now, to mention Picayo’s friendly, caring and dedicated servers is mandatory, as knowledgeable waiter Francois proves as he charms with infectious French savoir faire while studying a guest’s personal tastes, even to sampling fine wines prior to taking an order. With happy hour specials, live entertainment and all the superlative amenities, Picayo is clearly a multi-faceted dining value, particularly in this currently unstable economy.

610 No. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949 497-5051