666056 Tue Nov 10 08:42:55 -0800 2009 2 2 Los Angeles Area 0 5169970 I've been very lucky as of late having had a B-day diner at Marche Moderne and a B-day lunch at Church and State. Have I reached the summit for this ilk in the OC / LA area or are there others I should investigate? Tue Nov 10 08:42:55 -0800 2009 10883 JAB 1 5170163 Bouchon in Beverly Hills opens Nov 18 Tue Nov 10 09:45:39 -0800 2009 5169970 11756 lizziee 1 5171167 If it's a bistro you want, although I've had good meals at several places that were calling themselves that, the only one I know of that is truly and undeniably a proper French bistro is Le Saint Amour in Culver City. The only inauthentic touch I can think of is that you can sit outside comfortably in November, which you could not do in Paris. And the staff not only speaks English, they'll own up to it ;-) This is said on the strength of one lunchtime visit, but as the owner's charcuterie skills have actually improved since his days at the helm of Angelique (which we would have thought impossible) I feel perfectly safe in sending anyone there. And if you feel like returning the favor, take me with you! Tue Nov 10 15:48:24 -0800 2009 5169970 11478 Will Owen