Saint-Emilion: Outstanding French Cuisine in Fort Worth

Classic French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, intricate techniques, and elegant presentation. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, it emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, including fresh herbs, butter, cream, and a variety of meats and seafood. Signature dishes such as Coq au Vin, Boeuf Bourguignon, and Ratatouille showcase the depth and diversity of French culinary artistry. The cuisine also highlights the importance of sauces, with classics like Béchamel, Hollandaise, and Velouté serving as the foundation for many recipes. French cuisine is not only about the food but also the experience, emphasizing meticulous preparation, refined dining rituals, and a deep appreciation for the cultural heritage that each dish represents. And when you're in Fort Worth, there's one restaurant that is a hallmark of the quality of French cuisine - Saint-Emilion.

Bernard, Ondine, Chef Pascal, and the entire team are at the "old house" to welcome both longtime and new guests. For nearly four decades, Bernard Tronche has brought the delights of his native France to Fort Worth. We never tire of settling at one of the cozy tables inside this petite Cultural District landmark, sipping a glass of Champagne, and pondering options from the prix-fixe, three-course menu. A favorite starter is the duck and pork pâté, studded with pistachios and cranberries, best enjoyed on slices of warm, crusty bread with cornichons and Dijon. Although the onion soup gratinée was slightly underwhelming on our recent visit, the roasted red and golden beets with pear slices and whipped goat cheese were simple and sublime. The signature seared duck breast, accompanied by a mellow orange sauce and duck confit croquette, was perfectly executed, and the Cape Cod sea scallops in a light saffron cream were delightful, despite the overly salty risotto. The meal concluded beautifully with buttery greens, soft cheeses, and walnut-fig preserves, which proved more satisfying than dessert, although the tarte Tatin at the next table was tempting. Extra points go to Tronche’s excellent wine selection, featuring numerous choices from the area around his family’s home in Saint-Émilion. Guests can visit the wine room to make selections, with a sommelier always available to assist. We look forward to returning for a Saturday afternoon wine event featuring multiple tastings and ideal hors d’oeuvres pairings.

We discovered Saint Emilion back in 2015 and had a fantastic evening and experience. The entire team always makes you feel at home, and the building's interior is charming and comfortable, creating a homey atmosphere. The staff is excellent, providing a top-notch serving experience. We started with Side Cars, which were amazing. For appetizers, we had the Duck Crepe and the snails—both were outstanding, complemented perfectly by glasses of Moet. We shared the beef tartar, pâté, duck, and salad, which was more than enough. The tartar and pâté were delightful, although I miss the raw egg in the tartar. The duck was also great, and Ondine suggested a fantastic Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The only thing missing was the Tuile dessert, which I hope returns to the menu. Overall, it was a perfect meal and experience. So we knew we would be back.

I've dined at this spot four times since 2022, and if I could eat at Saint Emilion every day, I would. Everything about this restaurant is perfect. Whether it's for date night, celebrating a special occasion, or just wanting a nice meal, I highly recommend it. The highlight is the reasonably priced prix fixe menu, and the portion sizes are fantastic. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere is ideal for enjoying delicious soup, meat, and dessert with a group or a significant other. Make sure to reserve a table, as it tends to fill up quickly. It's truly a delight to enjoy something original and exquisite in Fort Worth for dinner.

For my fourth and most recent visit, my husband took me here to celebrate my birthday in early February 2024. Such a charming, cozy atmosphere. As a start, I had a 'side car,' my new, favorite cocktail. For years I had to tell other bartenders how to make it. This bartender knew exactly what I was talking about and it was perfection. We ordered the prix fixe menu and both loved the French onion soup and the delicious bread. Ondine suggested a wonderful wine to accompany our steak frites. I must have been swooning by then since I don't remember our dessert, only that it was part of a perfect evening. The staff provided superlative service. The food was amazing; all in all, the loveliest evening we have had in a long, long time. Our 45th anniversary is in October and I am truly excited for a 5th, return visit.

A few quick notes about Saint-Emilion:

1. They serve dinner from Thursday to Sunday, offering a menu of classic French dishes crafted by Chef Pascal Paviani.
   

2. On Wednesdays, they feature a Special Menu, a Wine Tasting Dinner, or we reserve the restaurant for Private Functions.
   

3. Reservations can be made ONLINE ONLY through RESY, up to 30 days in advance.
   

4. You must receive a confirmation email from Resy.
   

5. They do not take phone reservations, but walk-ins are welcome if space permits.

3617 W 7th St, Fort Worth, TX 76107

(817) 737-2781

www.saint-emilionrestaurant.com