Europa, Europa
Today was the first time that I had the opportunity to visit Europa for lunch. I was excited to see what the menu looked like because I was already sold on the dinner options. What I found was that the lunch items were very similar to the dinner options (at least to me). And that was a good thing. We were told that the tomato soup was a must have, so we ordered that. I was psyched to see that a risotto dish that I had tried the other night was on the lunch menu because I followed up with a big bowl.
When we first arrived to the bistro (noon) we were the only people in the place. One hour later there was not a table to be found. Obviously the word was out that Europa was a popular place to dine. Not only was the place super quaint (even with the packed house), the food was delicious. Large portions of soup and risotto were delivered to our table with a wonderful presentation of colors and tastes. The soup was silky with chunks of vegetables and spices mixed in. That was a meal in itself. The risotto was rich and hearty, and tasted heavenly with chives sprinkled across the top. Europa is such a great addition to Buffalo. The eatery is dripping with atmosphere - the music, the decor, you will not be disappointed with a visit to such a fine-tuned establishment. EUROPA BISTRO | 464 ELMWOOD AVE | 716-884-1100
the food is outstanding & its nice to see some differnt options. well put together small wine list from around the world. somebody has some good ideas.
In August while walking on Elmwood, we met Chef/Owner Michael Pijanowski as he was painting the storefront of 484 Elmwood Avenue. When asked what he was doing, he told us he was opening a restaurant called Bistro Europa, serving Eastern European food. Ever since we have been waiting for the place to open. Every day, walking by, driving by and finally Thanksgiving week the doors open. Friday after Thanksgiving we stop in for lunch. Walking into this once Subway shop, we find a beautifully transformed warm, cozy, welcoming place rich with color and fabulous music. We were greeted by Megan, a sweet young lady who was as happy to see us as we were to be there. We were seated, and poured wine which we had brought (no wine list yet) and given menus. So hard to choose when you want everything. We shared the Fondu for two, it was delicious. We also orderd Rindsrouladen, tender beef with bacon and saurkraut, excellent. As well as Cassoulet, a stew of beans with duck, sausage and pork. This dish I have had many times, for many years, in many places, and I must say hear at Europa it was wonderful. Rich smooth beans with tender sausage and pork and moist velvety luscious duck meat. The food is one of a kind here, and so is this little jem of a place with the music and ambiance. We can not wait to go back. Congratulations Michael, and thank you. You have a real winner!
In August while walking on Elmwood, we met Chef/Owner Michael Pijanowski as he was painting the storefront of 484 Elmwood Avenue. When asked what he was doing, he told us he was opening a restaurant called Bistro Europa, serving Eastern European food. Ever since we have been waiting for the place to open. Every day, walking by, driving by and finally Thanksgiving week the doors open. Friday after Thanksgiving we stop in for lunch. Walking into this once Subway shop, we find a beautifully transformed warm, cozy, welcoming place rich with color and fabulous music. We were greeted by Megan, a sweet young lady who was as happy to see us as we were to be there. We were seated, and poured wine which we had brought (no wine list yet) and given menus. So hard to choose when you want everything. We shared the Fondu for two, it was delicious. We also orderd Rindsrouladen, tender beef with bacon and saurkraut, excellent. As well as Cassoulet, a stew of beans with duck, sausage and pork. This dish I have had many times, for many years, in many places, and I must say hear at Europa it was wonderful. Rich smooth beans with tender sausage and pork and moist velvety luscious duck meat. The food is one of a kind here, and so is this little jem of a place with the music and ambiance. We can not wait to go back. Congratulations Michael, and thank you. You have a real winner!
Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
Your humble BR.O BeerGuy would like to add that Europa's beer list is extensive and presents options that pair well with the menu items. I had Hennepin (from NYS's Brewery Ommegang) with my cassoulet the other day: heavenly!
With my cousin the other night had fondue and smorrebrod (Danish open sandwich). It was delicious. Love that the smorrbrod changes daily with the specials. Ours had herring and cucumber. Cozy and cute, atmosphere, gypsy jazz playing, try and get a window seat and enjoy watching the passersby. Next time I'll try the risotto!
Fondue on the menu...we had a scrumptius meal last night!
Menu and concept was a nice suprise...and very reasonable. Great atmosphere as for what they did with what was a Subway space...very cozy--and authentic, relaxing euro music in the background. I also liked the section of the walls dedicated to postcards from around the globe. An interesting euro-focused wine list was also a very nice touch that works well with the menu.
They need a bit of help in the front of the house...as this place has a lot of potential. At least an offer of some fresh, crusty baguette bread would've complemented the meal...along with some better knowledge regarding the wines. The Chef can't do it all! They were also out of several items--and this was on a Saturday night. All of these items noted BTW--very fixable!
Otherwise, food quality was exceptional. Enjoyed what was a very authentic Sicilian recipe for pasta with sardines...'Pasta con Sarde'...one of the best pasta dishes I've had in some time. And Michael was VERY nice once we got him talking. We will be back...Cheers!
I just returned from lunch at Europa Bistro. It was definitely tasty and different although I am still not sure what I ate.
From the point of view of interior design, it's amazing what can be done with a former subway restaurant.
Pauldub~
Hi. I just wanted to let you know that I am a total veg~head and was perfectly content with my lentil soup, potato pancakes w/ apple and of course the cheese fondue (comes with vegetables and bread for dipping).
You will not leave hungry...that's for sure!
Happy New Year!
Well - we missed you - those of you who were NOT at Europa last night for a really fine Prix Fixe dinner and New Year celebration. Soup, apperizer, entrée and dessert - plus champagne. Everything was prepared perfectly. I had shrimp bisque (as did my wife), oysters with caviar (see chose the pan seared scallops with truffle, over parsnip purée), beef tenderloin meddalions (rack of lamb with polenta) and orange flan (chocolate mousse cake). Delicious!
Other options included cornish hens and vegetable rissoto.
Several tables canceled, so we had a very intimate evening - with a few colorful guests.
Talking to Chef Mike Pijanoswki and his wife Ela, Bistro Europa has some interesting plans coming up for the menu. all in all this place has a great original vibe - and food that introduces us to some fresh tastes!
Stop by!
GM
gee, i wish you folks would stop touting the place so much, now i won't be able to get in there anymore. boohoo : (
This is the kind of place that deserves this much attention!
Great food, and service. Outstanding! Go early!