Was at Bistrot Zinc last night for the first time in months. A little disappointed. Menu had shrunk. Well-informed waiter said it was to have something lighter for summer, but result was fewer selections. And more menu typographical errors than before. Quality was still fine, though. Skate with caper emulsion and vinaigrette vegetables was well prepared. Poulet grand'mre was ample with nicely seasoned vegetables, though chicken was too pink at the bone for me. Leek tart appetizer was nicely creamy, not dry. Mussels were good enough. Dessert menu was the real disappointment--about 10 clichs, including all too much chocolate, which may have been competently executed but sounded boring to me at the time (floating island, crme brle, profiteroles, etc.). I decided to ask about the "assortment" of ice creams and sorbets, thinking I'd find something interesting there. Result? Only one sorbet--passionfruit--not an assortment. Passed on dessert. Business had shrunk a little, too, at least in the restaurant part, even considering that it was a Tuesday night. I guess trend-spotters have moved on. The caf part seemed well filled, though, indoors and outdoors. Bill Kelley, Chicago
Chicago, IL