Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro- Hit or Miss

Story and photos by Freddy Sanchez

Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro is as comfortable as two people on a first name basis.
The food, however, needs a little work.

Not too far from the Plattsburgh State University Campus, Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro has the appearance of Grandma’s cottage or a bed and breakfast. The restaurant's resemblance to a civilian home adds to its comfortable ambiance. The overall atmosphere is quiet, laid back, and reserved, an ideal environment for a private dinner for two.

Upon entering the cabin-like bistro, guests are greeted by a plethora of plaques that display the vast accomplishments of Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro. One of their accomplishments is Winner of Wine Spectator Magazine's "Award of Excellence". Ok, I agree. All these plaques beg customers to believe that they are in for a good time. However, the crowd I was with decided the restaurant was hit or miss on that promise. If we’re talking about the atmosphere and aura, then Anthony’s delivers. However. call it poor food choice on our part, every person in our party had something negative to say about their entrées, except for the individual who ordered the salmon salad.

Without a doubt the best part of dining at Anthony’s Resturant and Bistro was the service. It’s the only aspect of the restaurant that left a lasting impression, whereas my chicken breast marinara over angel hair pasta left a tart aftertaste.  The food wasn’t horrible, the service was just better. My waitress, Sherry, greeted me with a smile that lit up the entire restaurant and immediately made me feel welcome. Her suggestions were sincere and only made my experience more enjoyable.

For a relatively small place, getting a seat was fairly easy. I walked in and sat down, no reservation need. There were two visible staff on hand, one waitress and one hostess; both of them doing a superb job at welcoming and serving guests.

The menu selection at Anthony’s is extremely diverse. Entrees range from chicken breast marinara over angel hair pasta, not recommended, to smoked salmon over a garden salad. Prices are made to fit the pocket, ranging from $9.95 to $29.95. The wine selection at Anthony’s is equally as diverse with your choice of red or white, bottle or glass. Some of the best dishes to have while dining at Anthony’s are the house bread and sautéed shrimp over pasta topped with a red wine sauce.

Despite the jazz/classical music that played in the background, a piano visible by the bar suggested that a live band is sometimes present.  The art hanging on the walls of the bistro are marked with prices that suggest they were for sale.

If not for anything else, visit Anthony’s with some friends for a night of drinks. The ambiance of the bistro screams “relax here and have a drink or two.”

One fact that’s indisputable is that Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro is fluent in guest first principles. Their service is friendly, helpful, clean, and fast.  These four principles go a long way with customers even is the food wasn’t too satisfying.

Have you ever visited Anthony's Restaurant and Bistro??