Le Mistral

What a fantastic lunch! Went for the first time today and had the Express Lunch, Onion Soup and Crème Brulé for dessert with a client. The pasta was freshly made and cooked perfectly. The soup was perfect, not a stringy mess of cheese like most other places. Service was excellent and atmosphere perfect.

Amazing French cuisine on the west side. Expect to spend, but it’s all well worth it. Where else can you find decent bone marrow?
They have a bakery next door. Get an éclair. Yes.

This was the most delicious and delightful meal I’ve had in a long time. My first time here and I’ll definitely be back! The foie gras was perfect and the salmon melted in my mouth. They also have complementary valet parking.

Maybe it was an off day. We ordered the scallops appetizer which had a delicious sauce but were very undercooked. I ordered the business lunch which included soup, an entrée and dessert. The soup was about three tablespoons of lukewarm soup. The entrée was the «filet mignon» skewered with about three little pieces of red & green bell pepper and onion on a very small dollop of mashed potatoes with a tasty sauce. It probably would’ve been okay but the «filet mignon» was so tough, I had to cut it in tiny pieces so I could chew it. The dessert was a very strange soupy chocolate something. None of the food was hot. Our server was very nice and French. Incredibly expensive for lunch. Probably won’t be going back.

Overall excellent. Starting from the parking lot. They have valet parking but even that was a nightmare! With valet parking it took me almost 30 mins to park. I visited about 11:30−12 and it was a zoo! Once I finally made it in the service and food was excellent. I was there with a large party and the meal was pre-​selected for the most part. I have a lobster bisque soup, medallion stake and veggies with a light crème burlee for desert. Service, with a large party i was impressed the service was excellent and we were in a private room. I plan on trying it again. The valet guy told me the high volume was unusual. So I will try again.

We drove approximately 30 minutes to check this place out for my birthday. The parking lot was pretty dead when we first arrived (around 6:45) on a weekend and so was the restaurant, however, it became more lively as the night progressed. For appetizer we had the snails, which were okay. We’ve had them once before at a different location and I vaguely remember them being good. Those which we had at Le Mistral, seemed bland. Most of the flavor was in the herbs which drenched them, but the snails themselves were flavorless. My boyfriend compared these to chewing rubber balls, which I would have to agree with. I would recommend a different appetizer. The bread provided was good and the raisin bread was savory/​sweet.
My boyfriend had the duck and sausage, which was pretty good (yes I tasted the dish). The side of butternut squash purée was also very smooth and creamy. I ordered the Veal Osso Bucco. The serving size was generous and the risotto was perfect (it was cooked al dente and not overly buttered).
For dessert we had the L’Opera. The presentation was beautiful and they even wrote Happy Birthday on the plate for me! It didn’t look as I expected though (a traditional slice of cake). Regardless, it was good. We also received some free macarons, courtesy of I forgot who, which was very kind.
I had left overs and asked my waitress for a to go box. As we were getting ready to leave I still hadn’t received it and I thought maybe she forgot and threw it away, but no! If you ask for a to go box know that they hold them in a brown bag at the front counter for you before you leave! :)
Because the location is so far I wouldn’t go back (the food was good, but not worth the drive). However, if the location is closer to you I would recommend this restaurant.

Went there several times. Food presentation is very nice. Lamb Chops is the best, though slightly pricy but worth each penny. My auntie had their famous truffle, three course meal, not that impressive. Slow service if you don’t mind waiting.

Food here is good. But I wanted more varieties on the menu that screams French cuisine !! Service was mediocre. The tables were seated too close together which doesn’t allow much privacy from strangers. I don’t like that at all. Too congested for me.

This review is for a private event which was held in the second floor event space. We were treated to a fabulous five course meal, which started with baskets of warm bread made in house. First course was quail breast, followed by a seared sea scallop topped with smoked salmon, lobster tail risotto, Chilean sea bass and a trio of desserts (chocolate fondant, lemon praline custard, and a raspberry macaron). Each course was beautifully plated and the proteins were cooked well, all with subtle flavors and just enough to keep you wanting more. It’s an elegant place to host a party, but be prepared for long wait times between courses. Luckily, the bread kept our appetites in control. Our wine and water glasses never went empty, but the service seemed a little less refined for the caliber of restaurant.

Was here for business lunch, and not impressed at all… The entrée of the day was salmon, and it was such a tiny piece that I could literally finish in two bites. And my friends did. The salad and carrot cake were pretty good though the portion was also small. Totally not worth the $ 20 spent… Probably never coming back.

The ambiance is amazing here. Everything is delicious but I especially recommend the foie gras, Chilean sea bass and the filet mignon. Perfection.

Always exceptional and service is amazing. Had the filet mignon and the fois Gras appetizer. The new wine bar, live music and patio makes this a must

First time last night. Was greeted and seated right away while I waited for my dining partner. Had a glass of wine immediately– they don’t have a huge by the glass selection but at least one of everything. My guest arrived got his wine immediately. At least two manager owners stopped by one while I ordered the seared foes gras– I was hesitant about the «spice bread» it came on he suggested I try it and it could be easily deconstructed. It was fantastic to start off. Est foils gras outside of France. My companion had the soup a l’ognion gratinee and said it was very good. Ere was a prix fix selection on the back of the menu I ordered just the entrée part a beef tenderloin with more foes gras on top and port wine reduction sauce. It was amazing. Cooked perfect. I switched to a glass of Bordeaux which was perfect. Finished up with a chocolate soufflé recommended by our server «if we had time» it takes about 20 minutes and well worth the wait. I read the groupon reviews. This is fine French dining not a bistro. Every part of the experience was fantastic. The parking… ugh. Next door «Rattan» valet yelling at the Mistral valet. I had words with him. I won’t ever step in that place. Now the meal was pricey but had such great choices– not TONS of choices but enough to find something for everyone. Service and friendliness impeccable. I did notice people bringing children– just don’t. These were mostly well behaved but also a baby in a high chair? Also silent luckily. If you are dropping a few hundred for dinner leave your rug rates home. Oh and just valet your vehicle– I will next time. Was worried Mr Rattan was going to tow mine while I ate. He didn’t. So if you have the dough come give it a try– it’s the real deal.

Finally was able to get back to Le Mistral. I was not disappointed.
Easily one of the top five fine restaurants in Houston and easily my favorite.
Had wonderful service last night from Jonathan, most pleasant and knowledgable young man.
My daughter had the salmon with clams… amazing!
My wife had the red snapper and loved it.
I had the duck confit and duck and mushroom sausage. Such a depth of flavors. I was again blown away.
The best!

I live in the area and this has long been one of our absolute favorites. My go to items include the foie gras, the lobster bisque, the lamb chops, the steaks, osso bucco or any of the fish items… okay, basically the whole menu since I also enjoy their salads and deserts too. For the women in my family they always eat lighter and indulge in the soufflé’s.
Great atmosphere with a bar to the side where you can catch a drink or enjoy dinner if you don’t feel like dressing and doing the main dinning room scene (however, knowing the Brothers, they would not mind casual wear in the dining room… but c’mon man, put on your big boy pants, let your lady dress up, and do it right).
Either way GO!

Our family came here for the restaurant week set lunch. This is a first class restaurant with a seriously talented chef. The food, service and atmosphere are all impeccable. $ 20 for this kind of quality is an absolute steal and we will come back in a heart beat to try their other menu. Well worth the drive way out on the west side of town.
There were 5 of us and we tried everything on the restaurant week menu and they are all good. Steak, trout and duck leg are all done perfectly in taste and texture. A pretty big portion as well. The chocolate dessert is the best of the 3 choices. I was a bit disappointed that the coffee was nothing special though.

When George Sand wrote, «Il n’y a qu’un bonheur dans la vie, c’est d’aimer et d’être aimé,» (There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved), he forgot to include the happiness of food. There is nothing more memorable about food other than where you eat it and who your company is in the moment. I was so devastated after finding out that I had a GroupOn for a place where the owners did not honor the deal they had advertised but since I had already made the commitment I wanted to go ahead and try it out for myself. So glad all those negative reviews were proven wrong. As requested I called in advance to make reservations and let them know that I will be coming in with the GroupOn. Upon arrival we were seated and our menus were brought to us. After perusing for a while the hostess came running and apologized for handing out the wrong menu as GroupOn menus are different than their regular menu. This raised a flag as to why people would have different menus but this was later explained to us in great detail for which I was truly happy (more on this later).
After we received the correct menu, we looked through our options. On this deal we were to receive, one appetizer, two entrees, and a dessert. In addition to those we tried the red wine (cannot remember the name :’() highly recommended by Francis — our most diligent server, and the regular coffee as well as the espresso. He had so much gusto that I felt like Louis XIV residing in Versailles. The set up is contemporary. The bread that they bring to you just absolutely melts in your mouth. Up until last night, I had never had beef carpaccio. Oh my goodness! I am no fan of rare meats but this was so delicious. It was like a thinly sliced tartare that just kept melting in your mouth with the ever so delicately sprinkled cheese over it. The pictures I took were in such haste because I was enjoying the food so much that they don’t do the reality justice.
For the main entrée I had the quail and the duck and my bf had the filet mignon. According to him it is one of the best filet mignons he has ever had. I tried a bite and almost instantly regretted not getting it but my duck and quail dish was amazing. I don’t remember the exact description of all the ingredients in it but the flaky phylo dough like pastry bread with the mushrooms cooked in the sauce complemented the wine I had ordered. Words will not do it justice. Suffice it to say you must try it or never know the joy of putting such amazing ingredients in your mouth.
For dessert we had the opera cake. I haven’t had an opera cake in the US and I have been living here for the past 14 years. This was as decadent as delicious as it gets. Martha Stewart wishes that she could make this half as good (although I am sure she does a good job). The best way to describe it is to copy and paste the description from their menu: Almond sponge cake, hazelnut crisp, chocolate mousse and layered French opéra cake. After complimenting the food and the service, I told Francis that the food was amazing and the service was even better. He thanked us for following the instructions on the GroupOn and gave us a tour of the restaurant. He showed us the kitchen where the chefs. We got to meet one of the executive chefs. The tour included showing of the private room where you can bring small groups or however many people you’d like for a dining experience not paralleled by any other. You can have your own private tasting and watch the chefs prepare your meal through a one way mirror. All in all, I left happier than I have left from a restaurant in a very long time!

I finally got the chance to dine and try French food. Located in energy corridor, Le Mistral was a delightful surprise because I am rarely in the area. Parking is easy in the private lot, and they also offer complimentary valet service.
We were quickly seated with our waiter arriving promptly after. I saw some couples, families, birthday celebration, and etc. a range of patrons within Le Mistral.
After some time, we finally decided on food that arrived in a timely manner.
Snails (4/​5, Burgundy snails baked in butter, garlic, parsley): I always wanted to try escargots, and these snails tasted like clams! Be careful about your tongue though… The snails came out burning hot. I honestly imagined this differently in my head, but the 6 snails are served and baked with butter, garlic, and parsley.
Scallops (5/​5, Pan-​seared scallops, leeks julienne étouffée, diced smoked salmon): This was probably the best I’ve tasted all throughout the dinner. Everything went well together, especially the bits of smoked salmon. It might be scary at first to bite into one of the pieces, but don’t be afraid. There are two served. Presentation was fantastic… I recommend this.
Chilean Sea Bass (3/​5, Oven-​baked Chilean sea bass, creamy jasmine rice, sautéed green asparagus, fresh cilantro broth): I didn’t love nor hate this plate due to the cilantro broth. The jasmine rice reminded me of risotto. It’s a light and refreshing dish, but I wouldn’t order this again.
Tarte Tatin (2/​5, Apple tart brushed with honey lavender rosemary black Szechuan pepper, vanilla ice cream: I’m not a big apple fan, so this was my least favorite. Presentation was pretty interesting. By the way, this needs time to be made so expect some time.
Fondant au Chocolat (4/​5, Chocolate fondant, kumquat confit, vanilla ice cream, chocolate tuile, chocolate sauce): This combination was just delicious and soft. Fondant was warm that paired great with the ice cream. Good chocolate dessert for those chocolate lovers.
My experience at this restaurant was nothing but amazing. Jonathan, our waiter, was so knowledgable and professional. I highly recommend him if you’re looking to wine and dine here. In addition, he led me into the kitchen for a tour! It was my first time in the back, so I was trying to absorb everything and learn. Le Mistral has a special room (chef’s table) in the kitchen, which you can reserve for those special occasions!
Would I come back? Of course. I’ll try their happy hour next time! HH runs from 5:30 — 7:30 PM Monday’s to Friday’s at Le Mistral.

Le Mistral is a fancy French restaurant in the Energy Corridor with fancy décor. I had a Groupon there for one appetizer, two entrees, and a dessert. We started off with the lobster risotto which was fantastic. Lobster and risotto are two of my favorite things so when you combine them… heavenly.
I then had the rack of lamb which came with seasonal veggies and scalloped potatoes in a cute little jar. The potatoes were average but the lamb was some of the best I’ve had. Plentiful and juicy, it hit the spot. Sometimes you don’t get much meat when ordering lamb but this was a nice cut. The person with me had the duck which she enjoyed.
Topped things off with a tres leches made out of cornbread. It was average but I appreciate the thought in using cornbread. The menu also said it was supposed to have strawberry consommé but that was nowhere to be seen. It was accompanied with some peach sorbet however which was tasty.
The reason I’m giving such a low rating is because the owner of the restaurant (a large French man) gave me a lot of crap for the Groupon. He pointed out that I didn’t present the Groupon upon arrival as stated on the voucher. While this it’s true, it’s like a police officer given you a ticket for going 1 MPH over the speed limit.
Presenting a Groupon at the end of the meal is a common practice so that the restaurant does not gip you on your food i.e. give you smaller portions. The owner said the lobster risotto was not included on the Groupon menu (I assume this is because it was tied for the most expensive appetizer). However, when purchasing the deal, there was no mention of a «special» Groupon menu which didn’t include some items. This sort of trickery and the reaction he gave us left a sour taste in my mouth which had a significant impact on our experience.

Disclaimer: my rating is solely based on a lunch experience. Hence a lower score. Will need dinner experience before I raise my rating.
Food= well prepared, plates nicely dressed and decorated. Mushroom bisque was my favorite, while tart was my least favorite. Beef bruschetta was well prepared. Service= good.
I am always challenged rating restaurants of this caliber because when I leave I am always hungrier than when I arrived but yet the small portions served were good, well prepared and enjoyable. Worth another try.