Picholine

Tony French eatery casts a spell on Eastside foodies.

by Contributor at Citysearch

In Short
At the unremarkable corner of First Street and Beverly Boulevard, Patrick Milo's tiny French spot is an unlikely oasis. Chef Milo has created a modern-day three-table luncheonette featuring sandwiches like the Nicoise and the Mandrage ham and Brie, and salads graced with prosciutto and Beaufort cheese. For catering orders, the coq au vin with mashers is a bestseller. As for the foodie-fantasy grocery items--there's an array of infused oils, aged vinegar and Michel Cluizel chocolates.

07/27/02

Surprise!

by platypusalooza at Citysearch

Like the metropolis in which it resides, Picholine is full of hidden surprises. Run by some of the most gracious Frenchmen you will ever meet, Picholine mixes fast and French in delightful ways seldom seen. The menu is small, yet adequate, with a variety of impeccable salads and sandwiches for every taste. If you're a French food aficionado, make your next quick stop here; you will not be disappointed. If you're lucky, you may run into the owner when he has a free moment.

When you visit, be sure to stop by the room next door, where you'll find a large selection of rare European delicacies as well as Picholine's own chocolate samplers. Back in the main section, you'll find a refrigerator full of the most delicious cheeses France produces at reasonable prices. Bring lots of money. Closed Sundays.

• Pros: value, courtesy, the food
• Cons: neighborhood, operating hours