Ellington

Description

Food: The ads refer to Velo Rouge as a "classic Parisian chophouse," while also implying with the slogan "Where everybody knows monsieur's name" that it's a friendly neighborhood bar. It's not exactly haute cuisine, but "more like what a French construction worker would eat," according to executive chef and co-owner Robbie Lewis. The menu features robust French-style dishes, including a heartily recommendable French Onion Soup; Steak Frites, a perfectly spiced 8-ounce prime filet; Seared Sea Scallops; and the Monday special, Swiss Fondue. Desserts with French-sounding names - Profiteroles, Chocolate Pot de Creme and Apple Tarte Tatin - were delightfully light.
Mood: The restaurant is a charming, comfortable spot to dine or have a drink, reminiscent of places in San Francisco, where Lewis, a Little Rock native who apprenticed under Denis Seyer at Alouette's back in the day, has made a huge reputation as an innovative chef. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with lots of dark oak (a sharp contrast with the icy blue coolness that characterized Nu, the previous occupant of the space). Red bicycles accent, but don't dominate, the decor (Velo Rouge is French for "red bicycle"). You can watch River Market-bound traffic, by car, foot or trolley, pass by the front windows and the new front doors, and there's also a roofed patio.
Moolah: A modest dinner for two of appetizers, entrees, a couple of side dishes and a couple of glasses of wine could run $100 or more. - Eric E. Harrison