Le Select Bistro

Le Select Bistro 432 Wellington St W (West of Spadina)
416-596-6405
For many years Le Select Bistro held court on Queen St.W. It was always a popular place to indulge in fine French cuisine. A few years ago they moved to Wellington St.W. I think it was a brilliant move because it now stands alone on a quiet industrial street. The lampposts outside give a welcome hue. It is a large restaurant but the space is well divided.
Each year at this time my friend invites 27 (of her closest friends) for a Christmas lunch in a fine restaurant. She reminded us that this is the 35th year for this annual gathering. We have met at various locations in town and always have a fun time laughing, chatting and dining on fine food. This was our first visit to Le Select and I hope it is the beginning of a new trend. The private room at the back is most attractive. The high ceilings are magnificent. Large paintings grace one wall. The room looks out on a garden patio. The ambiance and service are first rate. I am also impressed that the sea food is Ocean wise and every attempt is made to purchase organic and local food.
For every two guests an Assiette De Fromage was placed on the table. A sampling of three artisan cheeses, grapes and crispy bread went so well with the pre lunch wine.
We were offered three choices in each part of this glorious menu.
The Salade Mesclun was a spring mix with a virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It was crispy, fresh and tasty. The Mousse De Poisson Fume offers smoked whitefish mousse with grilled eggplant. Others enjoyed the Pate De champagne, a pork and chicken liver pate with a mushroom salad and cornichons.
Several of the women enjoyed the Bavette Frites. The grilled 5 oz. Alberta flapmeat steak was perfectly cooked and apparently very tender. It was served with caramelized shallots and frites.
I was thrilled with my tasty Saumon Roti Aux Lentilles. The salmon was delicate and flavorful. It was sitting on a bed of lentils Du Pu in a red wine beurre rouge. It melted in my mouth. Perfection.
We all agreed that everything was delicious. Nobody complained when it was dessert time. The Mousse Au Chocolate is made with French dark chocolate. I loved every spoonful of my Crème Brulee served with berries. A few virtuous diners enjoyed the Salade De Fruits Frais Et Sorbet Aux Lichis.
Albert Ponzo is the chef. I take my hat off to this young man who performed so many miracles on this day.
At the same time the regular guests were being attended to enjoying items from the large menu.
Let me just take you for a fast trip through the extensive menu. Tarte Nicoise is a Provencal puff pastry with Goat cheese, onion, tomato, olives and anchovies served with an arugula salad.($11.95)
Vegetarian diners can enjoy a Fricassee De Champignons, The mushroom fricassee is served with polenta, tomato jam and roasted spring vegetables.($19.95)
Gigot D’Agneau Au Jus offers roasted Alberta leg of lamb with a lemon rosemary jus.($29.95) Check the web for the tasty menu we enjoyed as well as other delicious choices on the menu. www.leselect.com. This was the best.