Le Bistro at The Union Hotel

Our rating: 7/10

I love this makeover at the Union Hotel. It’s fresh and unique, and far from just a normal pub upgrade. You can tell that a lot of thought had gone into the refurbishment. The theme is French, and the back bar has been fully converted into a French Bistro with matching menu and decor. The old Uncorked Restaurant has been relocated upstairs and the entire back of the pub has now been opened up and renamed Le Bistro.

We took my Mum along there on Saturday night. Mum was a visitor to this establishment back in the late 60′s so it was fun to take her along to see the changes. Luckily she was suitably impressed, and didn’t long for the old days!

Le Bistro serves a selection of French favourites including French Onion Soup, Escargot and a pot of Mussels. They also don’t forget their pub roots with some staples such as chicken Schnitzel and Hamburgers. Also on the menu are Sharing Stands, which look like an afternoon tea serving stand but with dips and breads, cured meats and seafood. Looking around the bistro though it did appear that these weren’t a popular seller. Perhaps too pricey?

Amit went for the Snapper Fillet with the highlight being the soy, ginger and shallot sauce over the fish. I had this dish last time I visited and found it very flavoursome and a healthy light option. This time I ordered the Hamburger which was ample and tasted just like a pub hamburger should.

CAUTION: One word of caution though, we went to Le Bistro in December 2008 as well. It was Monday evening and we weren’t aware it was their Trivia night. While our meals were all good and on time it got so noisy we could barely hold a proper conversation. If you going there for a relaxed time make sure you don’t pick a Monday night.

I have saved the best bit for last though.

You must go to the Bathrooms when you come to the Le Bistro. Wash your hands, and then try the Dyson Airblade. It’s the most space age hand dryer you’ll ever see. From the makers of the revolutionary Dyson vacuum comes the Airblade which will have your hands completely dry within 3 seconds. It really is amazing.