A bistro by definition is a small, inexpensive European style restaurant. However, at Bistro 22 in Labone, opposite Zenith Bank, you only get two out of three.
The exterior is a clean set up, successfully mixing construction with nature. Step inside and you step right into a modern restaurant in France. Straight ahead is the well-stocked wet bar with everything from whiskeys to rums to vodkas and beyond. The wall on the far right is covered almost from floor to ceiling with a shelf full of bottles; wines from all over Europe and at different levels of maturity. If you’re a wine enthusiast, one of the more matured bottles should set you back no less than GHC100.
The tables are set up for both reservations and walk-in diners. The have tables that seat parties of up to 20 and surely if the need arises they can accommodate more. The décor is simple and classy and the air conditioning is turned up to European temperatures; enough to work up an appetite if you’re not already hungry.
When you take a look at the menu and pricelist, you will immediately see which of the words in the definition of bistro, Bistro 22 fails to meet. The least expensive meal on the food menu is GHC 35 and that’s only for the starters. If you’re on a budget, like most of us have to be these days, then you will do well to keep your courses to a minimum. If you were raised typically Ghanaian like me, then one course washed down with a drink should be enough. There was a salmon sandwich I had my heart set on but that is only available for lunch. There are other seafood dishes, like lobster and then there are the steaks which can be had for both lunch and dinner.
Being on a mission to properly scope out this place I had to taste at least two different meals. This led me to order the barbecue wings for starters and a chicken burger as main course with a glass of cranberry juice. While I waited, I got a serving of crunchy bread sticks served with a tasty olive fruit dip and a delicious Humus and beetroot dip.
The waitress who took care of me from the moment I walked in till the moment I walked out was pleasant. She introduced herself by name before taking the orders and was very attentive without being intrusive.
Compliments to the chef on the starter and the main course because they were both lip-smacking good! The barbecue sauce that the wings were smothered with was out of this world! The wings were tender and it was quite a generous helping for a starter.
The burger came with a side of Irish potato chips, which can be swapped for sweet potato chips. There was a helping of a salad with an interesting dressing and, of course, ketchup. It was a very filling two course meal and there was no space for dessert but had I ordered, I’d have had a helping of the sorbet which is the least expensive dessert.
Bistro 22 comes highly recommended when you’re looking to give yourself a treat and also, of course, on days when money is no object to you.