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What to order
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Beef Tartare
Mentioned multiple times as a standout starter; reviewers called it "to die for" and highlighted it as one of the best dishes on the menu.
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Fillet Steak
Praised for being cooked perfectly with a tasty sauce, and described as one of the best steaks reviewers have ever eaten.
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Swordfish
Recommended as an excellent entree, with one review calling the swordfish starter absolutely delicious and another listing it among the meal highlights.
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4
Lamb
Frequently praised as a main course; reviewers described it as unbelievably tender, cooked to perfection, and their favorite dish of the meal.
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5
French Onion Soup
Highlighted as a favorite by multiple reviewers, with one calling it part of one of the best meals they had and another specifically noting the onion soup as a table favorite.
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6
Rhubarb Dessert
Recommended for dessert, with reviewers specifically praising the seasonal rhubarb dessert and the rhubarb dessert as a memorable finish.
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7
Venison
Called out as a standout main on one visit, with reviewers listing it among the highlights of an excellent birthday meal.
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8
Crème Brûlée
Strongly recommended as dessert; one reviewer said it was the best crème brûlée they had ever tasted and urged others not to miss it.
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9
Pork Belly
Praised as a divine entree with a compelling sweet-and-savory flavor combination.
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10
Market Fish
Mentioned as part of an exceptional meal and singled out as one of the dishes that made the experience memorable.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 6 to 9 PM |
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| Tuesday | 5:30 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Bistro Gentil
Trendy bistro offering French dishes à la carte & in 7-course tasting menus, plus wine & cocktails.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked
What is Bistro Gentil known for?
Bistro Gentil is best known for its modern French dinner menu, especially the beef tartare and French onion soup, which come up repeatedly in reviews. Guests also highlight venison and fillet steak, plus the lake and mountain views from the Wānaka location just outside the town centre.
What dishes are most recommended at Bistro Gentil?
Reviewers most often recommend the beef tartare, French onion soup, venison, and fillet steak. Other specific dishes praised in reviews include swordfish, market fish, lamb, and dessert, with people noting the food is carefully plated and full of flavour.
What is the atmosphere like at Bistro Gentil?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, with a relaxed feel rather than a rushed one. It suits dinner for couples, groups, and solo diners, and outdoor tables are especially popular for the lake and mountain views.
Is Bistro Gentil good value, and what is the price range?
Bistro Gentil is in the NZ$100+ price range, so it is a higher-end dinner spot in Wānaka. Reviewers say the portions are not large, but they feel the tasting menus, wine pairings, and overall quality make it worth the price for a special meal.
When is the best time to visit Bistro Gentil?
Dinner is the main time to go, and several reviews suggest booking ahead because reservations are required and dinner reservations are recommended. For the best experience, people mention arriving early enough to enjoy a long, relaxed meal and, if possible, booking a window or outdoor table for sunset views.
Is parking available at Bistro Gentil?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
