Babette's Cafe

My husband and I both highly recommend Babette's Cafe for your next special dining experience. We went there for our anniversary and it was a night to remember.

We decided to have the special prix fixed menu for $18.00 each. It gave a choice of three appetizers and three entrees. I chose the little fingers of fried halibut with caper mayonnaise and petit filet mignon (5oz.) with spicy onion rings and gorgonzola sauce. Sketch also chose the fried halibut and then roast chicken with artichokes, dauphine potatoes and creme fraiche. I tried and succeeded to not fill up on bread and butter, but knowing these would be smaller plates I knew I would have room. I'm a meat and potatoes girl, but I don't eat a lot of red meat, although I do crave a lot of red meat. Red meat is reserved for restaurants or when my family grills it in the summertime.

Saints be praised, I was not even remotely disappointed with my meal. We had enough time to eat more baguette and butter, but didn't have to wait too long. Our halibut fingers came out piping hot and with a smile. We immediately dug in and almost burned ourselves, so we slowed down and ate them with forks. I'm not sure how in what they were fried, but the breading was light like panko breadcrumbs instead of a cornmeal or flour breading. Sketch and I carefully devoured our appetizers with capers which I would guess were pan fried, as were the lemon rings. Having finished everything on my plate, I tried the lemon, but it was a little too tough to chew, but a nice palet cleanser.

More bread, butter and water ( although Babette's does have a lovely apertif, cocktail and wine list) and then the main event. We both cut into our meats which were tender and buttery. I was given a steak knife but believe I could have cut mine with a fork it was so tender. I had ordered mine medium rare, and Marla understood medium rare still has a pink center and would not be mistaken at any time for a shoe. My first bite without any sauce made my tastebuds cry out for more. Really. I could hear them.

I laughed and started to quietly moan. I told Sketch this is what I had been waiting for in steak. He laughed and I noticed that he was eating as slow as I was, would take a bite with his eyes closed and smile. This was no ordinary meal. We shared small bites of each others food and agreed we had both won the food lottery. For every bite we savored every morsel, not rushing anything. Neither of us had eaten potatoes dauphine before, but would be happy to again and again. I would guess they were fingerling potatoes which seemed to be parboiled and them somehow baked into a custard like dumpling.

I suggested he sop up the sauce with bread, which he did and enjoyed, but he wanted to save some of his meal for the next day. As much as I was enjoying my meal, I wanted to do the same, just so I could prolong the experience. I have never had gorgonzola that tasted so fresh and tangy with just enough salt (I am not a fan of saltiness and don't add it to my food or when I cook).

I would have sopped up my sauce, but there was only a dollop so it didn't overpower the filet. The spicy onion rings were not spicy to me, but surprisingly sweet. I would guess they were vidalia onions, but am not sure. My meal also had green beans and carrots in a shallot herb butter. They were firm, chewy and nicely seasoned.

We expressed our regret that we had no room for dessert, but honestly I didn't want anything else to remove those tastes and sensations from my mouth and soul. The atmosphere added to the meal as well, low lighting, warm tones and wonderful service. We left with more anniversary wishes as we praised our meal to the heavens.

Pros: Not one complaint

Cons: Not a con for me, but not vegan or vegetarian

Posted 09/14/09

The setting is Paris bistro with lace curtains, white tablecloths, and muted tones I found comfortable and relaxing. The only thing missing is a view of a narrow street and whizzing scooters. Order a glass of wine and use your imagination.

I am a foodie and was delighted with the variety and complexity of the offerings. The menu is medium-sized but should provide something for everyone. I would characterize the food as rustic French ? bold flavors, quality ingredients, and perfect cooking technique. There is nothing fussy, pretentious, or new-wave here ? just excellent quality French/European food in a classic styles.

Suggestions: steamed mussels with strawberries and Serrano peppers, grilled Dorade (fish) with fennel and tomato, and shrimp with potato gnocchi. We were too full for dessert.

Tip: the wine list offers a wine suggestion (pairing) for every menu item. It was perfect.

Tip: they offer a fixed price menu for $18 -- an incredible value which we did not try this time. The ala carte menu is a very good value.

Service was perfect. Ask for Robin.

This is an excellent restaurant which we will return to soon.

Pros: Food and Service

Cons: None

Posted 08/13/09

Great Location, Great Food, Good Selection - EXCELLENT Brunch.

Pros: Quaint

Posted 07/06/09

I can't think of another restaurant in Atlanta that offers such consistency in both food and service. It's been my "go to" place for years - to take both family and business clients. Bless their hearts, they take care of my picky father-in-law without a complaint. And I've celebrated my birthday at Babette's more times than I like to think about.

Pros: Best service in the city.

Cons: Parking is valet, which can get overwhelmed on the weekends.

Posted 10/12/08

I went with a group of people after work and was thrilled, we all were, with the menu, setting and service. I can't believe I hadn't been before. We all ordered appetizers from the Really Small Plates menu and it was so much fun. Got to try a lot of different foods. Service was attentive, let us have a good time, but was there when we needed something.
Entrees were great all around too. I had the paella. Delicious.

Pros: Great Menu selection, great service

Cons: none

Posted 10/02/08

I would highly recommend Babbette's Cafe to all of my friends and business collegues. The mussells are by far the best in the country, and the duck is outstanding. I'd also recommend any of their seafood dishes as they are always cooked to perfection. The indoor seating is recommended over the porch seating. We come back to this restaurant every two to three months, and are always treated wonderfully.

Pros: Food is fabulous and service as well, always a treat

Cons: porch/outdoor seating isn't as nice as inside this charming house.

Posted 09/27/08

We eat at this restaurant for every special occasion in our lives...birthdays, anniversaries, to impress out-of-town guests, even the first dinner with the future in-laws. Marla not only prepares delicious food ( the halibut, mussels, lamb chops and chicken dishes are family favorites), but also makes us feel special from the moment we walk in. Whether it's business or pleasure, the is the place.

Posted 08/29/08

After having finished dinner at Babette's Cafe last night, I felt strongly inclined to leave a flattering review for this modest rustic restaurant which leaves its competitors' haughty "haut cuisine" retreating abashedly in shame. The theme for Atlanta cuisine recently has been to place the most emphasis on the decor and ambiance, luring customers in to dine on impalpable food. I've seen my fair share of these restaurants in busy touristy districts, packed to the brim with customers eager to be seen rather than to enjoy the food; adding another reason as to why my appetite is continually lost. It is a rare occasion and one that should be relished when a restaurant is found that is not subject to pretention, but rather passion. Babette's Cafe is this restaurant and I can assure you that I will be going back there frequently. The staff is quick to greet yet not pushy, the service is punctual and experienced, and the drinks are of the highest quality in all Atlanta, made with fresh squeezed juices and proper bartending techniques. My server even went the extra distance to ensure that my date and I had a wonderful experience by sharing some of his amazing magic tricks with us! To get back to the most important issue at hand, the food, I have to admit that I have not tasted such quality at such a good price in Atlanta during all my years living here. I highly recommend the veal.
If you are looking for a noisy joint to be seen in, Babette's is certainly not your place. However if you are more interested in good old-fashioned service, top quality cocktails, and food that you'll remember days after you've left, Babette's is certainly the establishment for you. And if you're skeptical, all your fears will subside once greeted with the best loaf of French baguette found this side of the pond.

Pros: Valet parking, cocktails, waitstaff, and food

Cons: I think I covered everything above

Posted 08/15/08

Babette?s had some truly great tasting food. It?s pricey, but if you?re looking for some *great* food, you?ll find it here. I had the scallops which were cooked to perfection, and my boyfriend got the steak which was the most savory, well cooked steak I?ve tasted in a while. We got two appetizers, I can?t quite remember which they were, but I remember being quite impressed! This is a tiny, cozy restaurant, but some may find it a little too crowded and cozy for their taste. Our service wasn?t that great, the waiter was difficult to get to come to our table, and it took quite a while to get our food. Either way, I?d absolutely go back.

Pros: Great food, cozy atmosphere

Cons: Spotty service, slow, long waits

Posted 06/01/08

I've been dying to try out Babette's for the longest time and finally went this past weekend. First off, I adored the place as soon as I walked in. I loved that it is a house, it's so cozy, rustic, and intimate. Perfect for a romantic date. My date and I started off with the smoked trout and salmon "really small plate" and the artichoke and lemon ravioli. Both were delicious, but they aren't kidding when they say "really small plate." It's literally about 2 bites. The ravioli was great; the wine butter sauce balanced out the saltiness of the olives and artichokes very well. Portion size was perfect. For our entrees, my date got the roast chicken, and swears that it was the best roast chicken he's ever had. Succulent, tender, and moist, and accompanied with the perfect vegetables. I ordered the salmon with herbed risotto, and was blown away at how such a simple dish carried such great flavor. If you are a salmon aficionado, definitely try this dish! For dessert, we ordered the chocolate bread pudding with banana ice cream. TO DIE FOR! All in all, I loved Babette's -- it is the total package! Parking is easy, there is complimentary valet. Reservations are highly recommended.

Pros: fantastic food, amazing service, cozy atmosphere

Cons: slightly cramped space

Posted 02/04/08

I've visited Babette's twice now (once on a Tuesday night, once on Thursday night), and was very pleased both times. The setting is cozy- the main dining room gave me the feeling that I was actually a guest in a friend's house, and that I'd be treated as such. While a meal can run pricey if you opt for wine (they have a decent wine list, and the servers are knowledgeable and helpful with selections if necessary), you will not be disappointed by whatever you order. The last time we went, we opted for an escargot appetizer (not overly chewy, but succulent & delicious) and the veal & pork piroshkis (also very tasty). One note- for a party of 4, we had to place a double-order for the piroshkis. I'm assuming that is probably the case for any appetizer on the "Really Small Plates" section of the menu.

Both times I've been, I've ordered the grilled beef tenderloin with gorganzola sauce. Normally I'd try something new upon a 2nd visit, but the beef tenderloin... I get chills just writing this. I eat pretty well, but I've never experienced such a great example of beer tenderloin. They cooked it *perfectly* (medium-rare), and it literally falls apart when you start to chew it. The gorgonzola sauce and puree that accompany the tenderloin compliment it perfectly, and I found myself savoring every last bite. If I could cook tenderloin that well, then I'd eat that every night. For dessert, we opted for a pretty standard (but good) creme brulee and the chocolate, chocolate cake (which we all fought over; it was sweet & rich, though not overwhelmingly so).

Dinner for 4 (with a bottle of wine & additional drinks) came to $190. I thought the experience was well worth it. The cons- this place is noisy, and it's unavoidable. I never found myself shouting over the din, but the space is almost cramped and lends itself to noise. I definitely recommend a reservation, as this is a popular spot. Service was wonderful on my 1st visit, but cold and aloof my 2nd time.

Pros: Great setting, Wonderful Food, Good Value

Cons: Noisy, can be cramped, inconsistent service

Posted 12/11/07

I have been to Babette's 3 times over the last 3 months. Each and every time the service is impeccable! You know the kind of service where your server always knows what you need before you do. The food is out of this world!! The flavors are authentic and not over spiced or accented. Not to mention the prices are much less than other restaurants who don't come close to the quality of food. The room speaks for itself. Small, charming, and very warm. This restaurant is a must do! You will not be disappointed!! It is now our go-to place for special occasssions, or on a weeknight to order a few small plates.

Pros: Food, customer service, menu, wine, parking, ambience.

Cons: NONE!

Posted 11/13/07

I have eaten brunch and dinner at Babettes about 10-15 times over the past 4 years. Their brunch is hands down one of my favorite in town-- the fillet eggs benedict on brioche is out of this world. For dinner, I am often most impressed by their small plates and will sometimes order a salad and 2 small plates as my meal. Their mussels with strawberry and serrano pepper are some of my favorite in town (see other posts, I love mussels and order them everywhere). The oyster biscuit with dill is delicious. For entrees, I enjoyed the halibut on a relatively recent visit, but my fillet a few weeks ago was horribly overcooked (ordered medium rare, came out medium well) and dry. I was shocked, really, that's the only time I have ever had anything "bad" at Babette's. But with just 1 bad meal out of 15, I'll go back again... Also, joint Babette's mailing list to get birthday and anniversary cards (the last one I received gave us a free half carafe of champagne on our anniversary-- nice touch)!

Pros: Service, Discount Cards for Birthdays and Anniversaries, Valet

Cons: None

Posted 06/04/07

I have always hesitated to try Babette's Cafe. The previous menus didn't generate much excitement for me, however, when I saw the revamped current offerings, I made a reservation "tout de suite"! On a busy Saturday we arrived at 8pm for our reservation and were promptly seated. Our waiter was attentive, knowledgeable, and provided exceptional service from start to finish! We sampled several small plates.....duck confit hash, bacon and onion tart, and the artichoke and olive ravioli....all were perfectly delicious! We were in a quandary about the dessert selections, they all sounded fantastic, but our waiter recommended the dried cherry tart a' la mode. It didn't disappoint, with it's chewy, mildly tart dried cherries, crisp crust, and dollop of homemade ice cream.....a dreamy end to an excellent experience! Babette's is now one of my favorites and I can't wait to try the slow roasted pork or the roast duck with apple compote when we visit next. To the owner and chef: please keep these creative, yet homey and simple dishes on the menu and I will be a loyal customer! I will be sure to recommend Babette's to everyone!

Pros: Excellent food, service, ambience!

Cons: None

Posted 02/10/07

Babette's is one my favorite Atlanta restaurants. The staff is friendly, professional and well versed in the wine and dinner menus. One of the best mint juleps I have ever had. Their menu changes often enough and always reflects what is in season. Their cassoulet is cravable and perfect for a cold night. The lamb chops are pure perfection. Great for a special occassion or a casual date.

Pros: Friendly staff and fresh food

Cons: nothing

Posted 01/25/07

I have been dining here regularly since they moved to their larger location. Consistent, inventive and friendly, EVERY TIME. Consistency is always the biggest issue in Atlanta restaurants. Glad they have it down.

Pros: Menu, Staff, Location

Cons: None

Posted 01/25/07

I went on a Saturday, and the brunch food was good. The service was spotty, and our waiter was not very informed about the menu.

Posted 12/02/06

My wife and I ate here recently for our anniversary and had a wonderfull experience. We loved
all the small plate options as well as the variety in entrees. The service was warm and knowledgeable and the food preparation and quality were excellent. While this is not a romantic
rest. per se due to the noise level and close proximity of the tables it is a very comfortable vibe overall with all manner of dress. Overall great value and we would certainly not hesitate to return again.

Pros: Service, Value

Cons: close proximity of tables

Posted 06/22/06

We went to Babette's for my birthday and had a great time. They have wonderful wine tastings every 3rd Wednesday that is well worth your money. For $15, you get several glasses of wine and plenty of appetizer size food. If you stay for dinner, you won't be disappointed either. The food and service were excellent!

Posted 06/06/06

My husband and I loved our last visit to Babette's just as much as our first. Service was wonderful, food was delicious and so unpretentious. We were warmly greeted and taken care of all evening. The best meal in Atlanta.

Pros: prompt seating, comfortable noise lev, Terrific Value

Posted 11/25/05

Despite it not being nominally a steakhouse, the tenderloin with gorgonzola sauce is, bar none, the most tender, ost deliciou steak available just about anywheer. Beats the big chains, the Brazilian places, etc.

Pros: Friendly people, FAbulous food & wine, Reasonable

Posted 05/18/05

It was my first trip to Babette's Tuesday night for my birthday. Valet service right at the front door started the night off right. We were welcomed right when we walked in, and it just felt like home. My wife and I started off with a glass of wine from a small, but very encompassing wine list. We both enjoyed our selections and started off with the tomato-leak tart and the prosciutto-white truffle risotto. Appetizers were awesome, and then we dinned on the beef tenderloin with gorgonzola sauce and mustard crusted halibut with a leek-potato gratin. Again, both entrees were delicious, which I think spectacular food was the m/o for the evening. We finished our meal with the chocolate bread pudding with homemade banana ice cream on top. Overall, we had a wonderful experience at Babettes. The menu is rather small, but the quality of the entrees is unbelieveable!

Pros: Food quality, Great service, Intimate dinning

Cons: Small menu, no freebies on b-day

Posted 05/04/05

A visit to Babette's about a year ago was fantastic, so I didn't hesitate to return when searching for a nice spot for a special dinner last night. First, let me say the employees at Babette's are very friendly and professional. The atmosphere is charming, although a bit stale (could we add a candle to the tables?). The menu and wine list offer many temptations, and change frequently from what I've heard. One standard offering, however, fell from my list of faves last night: the steamed mussels in cream with fresh strawberries. An unpleasant, pungent odor wafted from the steaming bowl and there were no strawberries to be found. Otherwise, the grouper with sautéed leeks was delicious, my partner's veal was very good, and overall, this night at Babette's was a great dining experience.

Pros: Comp valet parking, friendly service

Posted 01/19/05

What can I say the food was the best. A great value for Atlanta. Loved it and will tell all to go there.
Oh make sure to get the homemade icecream!! Great

Pros: Great Parking, Quiet, Romantic

Posted 06/21/04

This place really did it for me!!
I had just came off a lousy dining experience two nights prior; and this evening, I was depending on Babettes to deliver some delicious food and exceptionally warm service. This was a first date with a beautiful girl with whom I wanted to make favorable impression upon,quickly!
The personal attention that was draped upon my date and myself made me feel that I was a regular patron-- eventhough this was my first visit to the restaurant.
My date had the chicken entree with nicoise olives & tomatoes, garneshed with red potatoes. I had the swordfish special with corn fritters. we playfully sampled each others food: Both, the chicken and swordfish were moist, succalent and bursting with flavor.
The wonderful dining excursion will give me enough favorable points on the date to earn me a second with this very classy lady.

Pros: complimentary valet, flavorful foods, warm service

Cons: some awkward seating

Posted 08/15/03

The food is incredible and the atmosphere sets the perfect mood for a romantic dinner...

Posted 02/04/03

My husband and I came here for our anniversary, based strictly on user ratings. We were not disappointed. From the moment we walked through the door, the small house and the staff made us feel special. My last experience with French-style cuisine was heavy. Here, sauces were king and everything was light and flavorful. Even the bread was perfection, French "croustillant", crispy, warm, soft inside. Mom's chocolate cake was rich and surprisingly light. And the value and service were tremendous. If you like being treated well, Babette's is the place.

Posted 11/20/02

I ate at this restaurant in the neighborhood for the first time last week and it was spectacular! Some of the best food I've had in Atlanta!

Posted 07/28/02