Mix intimate and cozy with the high style of white cloth tablecloths, and … Voilà. Helping set the ambience as quintessentially French, a large rendering of “Luncheon of the Boating Party” by renowned French Impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir dominates one wall while an adjoining wall presents various views of Paris icon the Eiffel Tower in artsy black-and-white photography. Softly in the background, the music is French pop and musicals. That this is a piece of France transported to the Valley is obvious even before a look at the menu cinches it: Dishes are listed in French, with English “subtitles” describing them.
Husband and wife Chef Jean-Christophe and Ségolène Gros had so enjoyed earlier visits to the Valley that they decided to make it permanent. Moving here in 2015, they set about securing a site that fit their dream of opening a restaurant that was “small and cozy, so we could talk to our guests,” Ségolène explains. In less than half a year, they opened Voilà.
The meal starts with a warm baguette served in a brown paper wrapper, with a small bowl of a flavorful but mild garlic aioli. Follow this with some moules (mussels) or escargots, smothered in fresh, sautéed parsley butter, or a salad with a wonderfully mellow balsamic dressing. Helping maintain authenticity, all produce comes from Europe. Entrée selections for lunch run heavily to quiche — a gourmet choice as executed by Chef Christophe. The thin, light, pastry crust perfectly balances on the palate with the almost custard-like creaminess of the various fillings that include eggs, salmon and spinach; eggs and vegetables; and eggs, bacon, onions and cheese. Among heartier choices on the menu is the steak and French fries.
A warm friendliness greets diners, inside as well as on the patio that wraps around the front of the restaurant.
Voilà French Bistro
10135 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale
(480) 614-5600
