Bistro Gentil

  This was a return visit to Wanaka and dinner at Bistro Gentil the first thing booked. Though a Monday, the bistro was open, but not busy. All diners accommodated easily... read more in the outdoor terrace section, for a glorious sunset. It's easy to get too comfortable in the woollen-rugged chairs. Service was attentive but not rushed. We had 'space' between entrees and main to sit and relax and imbibe.

Starters were oysters (fresh!), chicken liver parfait (made into 'cigars' and served in glass ashtrays - incredible), and soft shell crab (yum).

For entree we both had the French onion soup. This was a no-brainer and didn't disappoint. I had thought about going large but the waitress assured me the small size would give me space to complete mains. She was right. Tick.

For mains we had the duck (special) and I had the Red Tussocks venison, with truffle fries. Just divine, and both cooked just enough.

For dessert I had the vanilla brûlée. OMG what a treat.

The wine list was smaller than I remembered and a bit odd. Mostly wines made by the winery upon which grounds the bistro sits and provides wine-tastings for, but some others including one from Italy and one from France. I chose the Clos Marguerite Pinot Noir 2019 and it was sublime.

Overall, our expectations had been high and they were met.

  Lovely location with great views. Food delicious. Outside eating. Loved the "credit card" and wine dispenser

  Had a fabulous dinner last night at Bistro Gentil. Our waiters Richard and Scott were super friendly and very quick to help out on dietary allergies. We were seated next... read more to the fire so were warm and cosy. The ambience was lovely. We felt very VIP and the chef served up some amazing entrees, mains and desserts that looked and tasted extra special. Richard recommended some lovely wines to accompany dinner. Thanks to all for such a fine dining experience ❤️

  What a delicious meal. We all had Trust the chef, and we’re not disappointed. Service very friendly and wine was spot on, a good variety to choose from. Will definitely... read more be back!

  We had an enjoyable birthday dinner at the cozy and romantic Bistro Gentil. The Chef and his team put much love into their dishes. They are beautifully plated. The menu... read more options cover a good spectrum. The self serve wine wall is a cool option. You...More

  Absolutely amazing food - it's art designed to wow your eyes and taste buds.
Definitely recommend for a date night, but also as a special occasion place to treat yourself... read more and your loved ones, or amaze a potential client or business-partner.

  Bistro Gentil was absolutely amazing! Price is fantastic, servings are very generous and the staff go far beyond to make your evening so special. I cannot fault one thing about... read more this restaurant. They made our evening perfect, from answering all and any of our questions about the menu, to generously providing us with a glass of bubbles to celebrate my partners birthday. The food was incredible. With every bite, the texture and taste of these meals was even better than I was expecting.

Perfect. Sensational. Incredible. We will be back, time and time again

  We were massively impressed with this beautiful French Bistro! Staff and food were superb! Wish we had one in Sydney
Highly recommend

  We dined here this week and not only had wonderful food but the service was exceptional as well, in fact the best on Wanaka. We choose the chefs choice menu... read more and it was lovely. Wine recommendation was superb. Would highly recommend you try this place.

  Thanks again to the team at Bistro for making our evening truly enjoyable and one to remember. It’s not often that every box is ticked when you go out for... read more a meal, but this place hit the mark in every aspect. Being from a hospitality background, I unfortunately pay too much attention to what’s going on behind the scenes, but after a short time I realised that the team had it covered. Delicious food, professional knowledgeable staff, clean facilities and lovely quaint setting. Be sure to book to avoid missing out! Can’t wait to be back….. thank you