The elegant Scarsdale space formerly housed by Backals has a new occupant. Bistro Citron, open since April, is offering French cuisine similar to its two other locations in Long Island and Manhattan.
The restaurant’s landmark stone building at Scarsdale’s Five Corners has remained predominantly unchanged, save for a few cosmetic touches. The stunning décor combines reds and yellows, wood, marble tables, French doors, an ornate fireplace, and warm lighting, evoking a homey Parisian bistro, and highlighted by an eye-popping vaulted ceiling with white-arched rafters. Terraces and alcoves offer a variety of seating areas, including balcony tables that overlook the dining room, and a separate room on the second floor. Five outdoor tables are available for lunch or brunch.
Those looking for something more casual can head to the large bar area, with two TVs and several tables, where customers can enjoy a full meal or relax with a drink with the after-work crowd. There are also plans for wine and tequila tastings at the bar, which stays open later than the restaurant.
Headed by Chef George Madrid, Bistro Citron’s menu is authentic French bistro fare, starting with the raw bar. Dinner appetizers range from $7 to $14 and include a caramelized onion tart with goat cheese and tomatoes, escargots, and moules marinières—mussels steamed in white wine with garlic.
Among the entrées ($19-$28): duck breast and leg confit with mushroom gratin; pan-seared scallops over roasted potatoes, and roasted rack of lamb in mint sauce. Classics such as bouillabaisse, coq au vin, and canard ala ’orange, a crisp roasted duck served with orange sauce over wild rice, round out the daily specials.
Homemade desserts ($8) include cream puffs filled with vanilla ice cream, lemon tart, and bananas Foster served in a phyllo cup with hazelnut ice cream.
The restaurant also offers lunch daily and Sunday brunch (dishes range from $8 to $12). On the brunch menu: eggs, pancakes, French toast, savory crêpes, salads, and sandwiches like a lobster club on toasted brioche.
Bistro Citron is open for lunch Mon to Sat from 12 pm to 3 pm, brunch on Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm, and dinner Mon to Thurs from 5 pm to 10:30 pm, Fri to Sat from 5 pm-11 pm.
Bistro Citron
2 Weaver St.
Scarsdale, NY 10583
914-574-5566
bistrocitronscarsdale.com
