Cotes du Rhone, on North Broadway, is situated in a fairly low-key location. Do not go to this restaurant if you are looking for a booming area. With that said, the ambience (a bit dark though) was relaxing and the staff very friendly and attentive. Our server promptly corked our bottle of wine and placed the other on ice. The birthday discount was a plus. Visit them on your b-day and you will only pay $5 for your entree (up to $20 entree value).\r
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The food though was exactly what I expected of an unassuming french bistro. The escargot, in garlic and butter, then baked, tasted fairly fresh but disapeered fast (six come in an order). My boyfriend complained that he could have stood to have eaten an entire colony of snails! My main dish, sea bass, had great flavor and texture, but was a bit overwhelmed by the huge mound of mashed potatoes it sat atop. Sea bass is a delicate fish that should melt in your mouth if cooked right. At one point though I was not sure where the sea bass ended and the mashed potatoes began. My boyfriend's entree choice, a paella with seafood, chorizo and chicken, was the better entree, but oddly enough not really French at all.\r
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Overall, the atmosphere was relaxing and service attentive and friendly, but the food nothing to get excited about. The BYOB policy was nice though. Cotes du Rhone is worth a taste for those who enjoy trying new restaurants but don't expect to be knocked out of your seat.
Pros: Service, BYOB, Parking
Cons: Average food, Low-key area
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