Inside: Alex's Bistro

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Alex's Bistro, an intimate and elegant eatery featuring fine French and Italian cuisines, has been a cornerstone of the community for more than 20 years. Located on the corner of Reed and Henderson, this authentic restaurant and bar embraces patrons with courteous service and Chef Alex's famous dishes seasoned to perfection.

Food: At Alex's it's hard to choose where to start your dining experience – with one of the signature soups such as seafood bisque with cognac or one of their fresh salads including Caesar and baby spinach varieties. The menu also offers several appetizers ranging from Delaware Bay Oysters Rockefeller to truffled white cheddar macaroni and cheese. The soups, salads and appetizers range from $6 to around $10, but they offer your palate a fine introduction to things to come.

The entrées at Alex's include: Beef Burgundy, a juicy Filet Mignon, Poulet Parisienne, pecan-crusted chicken, and Atlantic salmon smothered in lobster dill sauce. While your main dish might cost upward of $20, the superbly prepared and garnished plates are well worth the expense.

Libations: Patrons sitting in the one-room dining area are presented with a lavish wine list upon arrival. The house wines include red and white wine offerings -- many available by the bottle or glass. Champagne also is served in addition to beer and liquor drinks. The upscale bar area offers patrons a comfortable area to enjoy a drink of their choice while they dine.

Décor: Alex's Bistro emits a warm and romantic glow, which is reflected in their tasteful décor. The single room dining area is lined by combination booth and table seats. Mirrors stretch along the outer walls above the booths, reflecting the soft light of the candlelit tables and layered brass light fixtures. Classic paintings by French artists adorn the walls, and each table has a pink carnation in a mini-vase placed on it amongst the fine cutlery and china.

Service: From the minute you enter Alex's Bistro, you are in the hands of this eatery's skilled, patient and professional staff. Reservations can be placed by phone and are a necessity at this bustling bistro. Despite the size of the crowd, the staff makes each party feel like they are top priority. The food is served and cleared away promptly, making way for the next course. Your water glasses are continuously topped off, and drinks are served in a timely fashion.

Crowd: Alex's tends to attract a more mature crowd, partially because of its extensive history in the area. It is also an ideal place to go for a romantic evening out, regardless or your age.

Specials: Chef Alex concocts special entrées on a nightly basis, such as trout and veal ravioli.

Insider tip: Make sure to place your reservation in advance to ensure a place in the dining area in a timely fashion. This place is brimming with customers on a nightly basis. Try not to fill up on the warm bread served before the meal, since the food is well worth it.

Bottom line: Alex's Bistro offers an upscale dining experience for patrons young and old in a comfortable and romantic environment. The food is superb, especially when paired with an appropriate wine selection, although it's easy to spend upwards of $40 a person for a full meal.

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