Sophisto-Bistro

Our B&B host Mary informed us to try this restaurant out one evening during our recent visit to Stratford. We like dining here very much before the theatre. Faves had to be their desserts, wow, the lemon tart was impressive.

Just tried Rundles’ bistro, and the dishes I tasted were incredible. My appetizer of smoked trout tartare was tasty and fresh. Pork belly dumplings were moist and delicious. Servers were super-friendly and made me feel right at home. A week of dining around in Stratford, and this was by far the best dining I experienced, especially, considering the price.

Beautiful, inspiring, transcendent -just some of the words I'd use to describe any great work of art. The Rundles experience counts, to me, as such. Chef Neil Baxter and owner Jim Morris have created, and successfully developed, something very, very special in the heart of Southwestern Ontario. To go there and enjoy a meal is to experience food -and the entire dining experience -as something special, sacred, and deeply delicious!

Having experienced the formal dining room at Rundles for both dinner and lunch last year, I was curious about its more casual bistro sister. With the whimsical pieces of artist Victor Tinkel adorning the walls and ceiling, the bistro definitely has a fun, eclectic vibe. The menu between it and the formal dining room differs only slightly: instead of fancier dishes like lamb (cooked sous vide -heavenly) or duck confit (for mains), the bistro offers lighter, if equally succulent dishes like seared sea scallops and braised short ribs.

I decided on Mexican chili-rubbed quail -and, oh my, how delicious! Tender, moist, pieces of melt-in-your-mouth quail were complemented by spicy little daggers of pungent chili flavour. The dish came with a tender, creamy barley risotto, and I was overjoyed at the happy puddle of green onion sauce (flavored with tomato and chili) adorning the dish -so much the better for sopping up with Chef Baxter's fresh daily-made baguette!

It's worth noting the portions at Rundles are proportioned accordingly; there is no architectural design at work when plating, but rather, a considered, classy approach that is in accordance with first courses. My lobster bisque was heavenly -near-foam, in fact -but had none of the heaviness usually associated with bisque. It was a fresh, clean lobster-y taste. The accompanying (three) seafood croquettes were crispy without a hint of grease. When my quail subsequently arrived, I was beyond relieved that the plate wasn't overflowing. Of course I finished the whole thing!

This same relief extended into dessert; a fresh cheese plate featuring an array of gorgeous Canadian cheeses (including local favorite Monforte) was simply laid out with slices of crispy green apple, and a side of fruit compote with toasted walnut bread. Together with a glass of port, it was an ideal, delicious ending.

It must needs be noted that service was as stellar as food. Our server clearly, precisely explained every course, was happy to offer sourcing information, and accommodated special requests handily. She also introduced Rundles' special-blend wine with interest, noting the involvement of Canadian winery Rosehall Run, as well as artist Victor Tinkel's contribution in designing the labels. There's something gratifying about having so much detail offered in procuring a glass of wine; it truly complemented the entire dining experience.

Everything, from start to finish, positively emanates class, dedication, and passion at Rundles. For $55.50, you get a truly memorable dining experience you'll take with you in every other dining and eating situation. Take my word for it: I've been dreaming about that meal ever since, and plotting my return.

Dined at Rundles our first night in Stratford, and decided to try their bistro the second evening. There is less space in the bistro dining room, and the menu is different. Food was great; service was excellent. Bistro wines very affordable, sourced from Rosehall Run winery in Prince Edward County. Great pre theatre meal!

Sophisticated it is, and more than a bistro!. Each dish ordered was darn near perfect and definitely gastronomic. The waiter was very nice to my group, and surprised us with a little dessert wine, with compliments. Nice added touch.

My friends and I love Rundles, so, we diced to try their casual dining room before going to see a show. Great all the way through the meal. I highly recommend dining here, especially, pre-theatre.

I like Rundles for late relaxed dinners, when I am in no rush; and their more casual Sophisto-Bistro for dining pre-theatre, when I have to meet the curtain call.

There was a nice vibe the first time I dined here. The second visit was just as fun.

The service is what you would expect dining at Rundles, i.e., courteous and proficient, yet, a bit more down to earth and playful at times.

I find their bistro menu is just as excellent as Rundles, coming from the same kitchen: each dish is perfected, and what you would expect from their wonderful chef. This is not sloppy bistro fare, one bit!

This is a gem of a restaurant to visit in Stratford. It is tucked in behind the main dining room of Rundles. We dined here before our 8pm show. Excellent all around, esp., the detailed service and overall value. Rundles is more expensive, that's for sure, but, this, their less formal venue, is just as good in many ways. Can't wait to go back this coming summer!

I've always disliked the maddening "pre-theatre" dinner experience in Stratford: arriving between 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and having only an hour-and-a-half to dine and rush to see an 8 p.m. show.

Well, what Iiked most about my experience at the 'Sophisto-Bistro' inside Rundles, is that they gave us an option to have 2 or 3 courses, and this really suited us nicely. Why rush through such an amazing dessert menu, in order to make a 8 p.m. show?!?! (I prefer 'Late Dinner' at Rundles, starting around 7:30 p.m. or so, because that is when I want to enjoy three or more courses, and not be rushed.)

Rundles 'Sophisto-Bistro' is now one of my favourite spots in town. The food is innovative, and service still top quality and sophisticated, and the decor is wonderfully done.

Any faults? None, this venue is perfect.

Awesome addition to the gastro-scene in Stratford. This is a very afordable 'mini me' to the more expensive main dining room, Rundles. Amazing charrcuterie - made inhouse. Service was lovely, bubbly. See y'all sooner than later!