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C Level: One of Bonita’s Best

The bistro proves it's consistently reliable for Continental fare.

BY July 21, 2017

The perennially dark interior, bathed in the subtle glow from blue accent lights, gives off a refined air not often found here. 

The next clue you’re onto something special is the scissors poking out of the crock of French onion soup, proof of the hockey puck baguette below and thick canary-hued melted deliciousness on top you’ll be more than excited to cut through.

There’s a sophistication and undeniably alluring intimacy to the railroad-car-thin C Level Bistro & Wine Bar (one that is belied by its perch in a humdrum strip mall on Bonita Beach Road)—which is why locals have sworn fealty to its many charms throughout the past decade.

Plates are on the pricey side for a place that receives zero foot traffic, but the portions are generous, and, more importantly, they’ll leave you swooning for more when you leave. Filets are painted with an au poivre that’s a spot-on reduction of heavy cream, cognac and peppercorns, and fish, like grouper, gets a textbook sear and a drizzle of lemon and olive oil. All come accompanied by either mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf, as well as blades of haricots verts sautéed with mushrooms and a Provençal tomato dusted with Panko.

Add in a respectable wine list where Saint-Émilion Bordeaux is available by the glass, and it’s no wonder you’re at a whole new level. 

To plan a visit:

C Level Bistro & Wine Bar

4450 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs

(239) 221-7046

c-levelbar.com

 

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