Tandem

This contemporary-style bistro near Place d'Italie is proudly overseen by its proprietors, who will take the time to explain things like the difference between "bio" and "natural" wine, and who see to each guest attentively as friends. Their space is cozy, with a small bar, but still roomy enough that you don't feel like you have your elbows on other guests' plates.

In the vein of working with seasonal ingredients, there was a lot of citrus on the menu du jour in mid May. My fish entree (red snapper) was delicately prepared with a citrus sauce accompaniment, but it was perhaps a bit too sweet and fishy for my palate. This is more a reflection on my taste than their cooking. A friend had a poached chicken dish with mashed sweet potato that was much more to my liking. The menu is varied enough that there should be something to please most preferences.

The wine list shines with lots of organic and unique selections. By-the-glass prices are reasonable, and they are able to match really specific requests. My friend wanted a red wine with a hint of liquorice flavor (?), and they were able to find something that matched. All in all, this a very relaxed, neighborhood style establishment.