Main Street Bar serves up pricey fare in sophisticated atmosphere

What exactly is a bistro, and how is it any different from a restaurant? A bistro is more of a small, comfortable dining setting where the owners are the chefs and the patrons are regular customers. The atmosphere of Main Street Bistro and Bar fits the definition of a bistro, being a small restaurant where couples sit in an intimate setting, surrounded by autumn colors and warm wafts of delicious dishes brought out from the kitchen.

The restaurant also maintains a modern feel with a casual and almost trendy appeal, though while being located in Princeton and not in New York, the clientele of Main Street is not really made up of cool 20-somethings dressed in black looking to find easy love. The food, ambiance and fellow-diners all cater to the more mature residents of Princeton township, while reflecting the bisto's image of a cross-culture culinary experience.

Selected as one of America's "Great neighborhood restaurants," by Bon Appetit Magazine (September 2002), Main Street Bistro and Bar has a great array of many delicious foods, while offering an environment that is both inviting and aesthetically pleasing.

The decor reflects both its roots with a European open, wooden wine cellar and bar, mixed with an almost southern comfort atmosphere of flower tablecloths and curtain ruffles. The selection of black and white photographs hung all around the interior of normal people in unique settings and poses brought an arty, European charm, while large drawings of 1920s cars represented some American history.

The unique American artwork and trendy lighting with the colors and furniture of a small European cafe visually bridges the two cultures together.

The menu at Main Street is both eclectic and traditional. While having the normal selections of hamburgers, grilled chicken and caesar salads, Main Street also offers the options of more cultural food. The Spinach and Grilled Portabello Pizzetta, an individual sized pizza layered with spinach, goat cheese, mozzarella and parmesan, is a reflection of Main Street's European cuisine, while the Roasted Jersey-Fresh Corn and Cheddar Chowder had a spicy bite and a very Southwestern taste. While the dinner was satisfying, the desserts of Main Street complete the meal. Belgian Chocolate Raspberry Tart, Mississippi Mud Cake and Creme Brulee are just a few of the choices offered to complete the meal.

The dishes are wonderfully prepared and beautifully presented, complete with garnishes and sauces to compliment. The entrees come complete with recommended wine selections. The small details that make Main Street a higher caliber restaurant suggests that Main Street does not receive many student diners.

By 7 p.m. on a Tuesday night, about two thirds of the restaurant was full with couples in their mid to late 40s or older. While being a brisk 30-minute walk from campus, many car-less students may not have the time to make it over to the Princeton Shopping Center.

Main Street is a good quality restaurant with appeal, even if that appeal comes from straying away from the dining halls here on campus. Unfortunately the price of the meal may keep more than a few students away. A two person meal will cost anywhere from $35 to $50 dollars, so for students on a budget, this is not the place to get food kicks away from on-campus meals.

Yet, to get away from student life and into more of an adult environment for those who are willing to pay for it, Main Street is the place to go. The quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff will not disappoint. If any worries arise over the heaviness of the food, just walk. And who of us doesn't need the exercise, right? Enjoy! For more information on Main Street Bistro and Bar, visit their web site at http://www.mainstreetprinceton.com.