- Attraction: Sophie’s Bistro
- Location: 700 Hamilton St, Somerset, NJ 08873
- Industry: French Restaurant
- Website: https://sophiesbistro.net/
Behind an unassuming exterior on Hamilton Street sits one of Somerset County’s most beloved dining destinations.
Sophie’s Bistro has been transporting diners to the French countryside since 2002, serving hearty comfort food in an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a classic Parisian bistro.
Everything here is made in-house, from the crusty bread that arrives warm at your table to the country-style dishes that have earned this intimate spot a devoted following.
You’ll discover generous portions, authentic flavors, and a warmth that keeps regulars returning year after year.
Menu Highlights
The French Onion Soup: This version might just be the best you’ll ever taste. The broth achieves that perfect savory depth, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese that stretches as you lift your spoon. It’s hearty without being too heavy, ideal for starting your meal.
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Keep Exploring →Escargots: These tender snails arrive bathing in hot garlic and shallot butter sauce that’s absolutely divine. The accompanying bread becomes your best friend here—you’ll want to soak up every last drop of that rich, aromatic sauce.
Mussels Marinières: Classic preparation done right, with plump mussels steamed in white wine, butter, shallots, and garlic. During their special Mussel Festival, you’ll find creative variations like green curry coconut milk mussels that showcase the kitchen’s inventive side while honoring traditional techniques.
Steak Frites: The 8-ounce certified Black Angus bistro filet comes perfectly cooked with hand-cut French fries. You can request it vert or au poivre, and the accompanying frites are crispy on the outside, fluffy within—exactly what you’d expect from an authentic French kitchen.
Lamb Shank: Fall-off-the-bone tender, this New Zealand lamb shank gets braised in port wine reduction and served over Israeli couscous with carrots, mushrooms, and onions. The meat practically melts under your fork, and the rich sauce ties everything together beautifully.
Seafood Puff Pastry: A luxurious mix of scallops, shrimp, and salmon arrives encased in flaky, golden puffed pastry. The seafood stays fresh and perfectly cooked, making this a standout choice for those seeking something special.
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Discover MoreBeef Bourguignon: This classic French stew delivers deep, wine-enriched flavors with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out—true comfort food executed with skill.
Cassoulet: This traditional baked dish features a hearty mix of duck confit, andouille sausage, garlic sausage, white beans, and tomatoes. It’s rustic, filling, and wonderfully savory—a unique offering that sets Sophie’s apart.
Scallops in Cream Sauce: Day boat sea scallops get sautéed in white wine and shallot cream sauce, served alongside vegetables and creamy mashed Yukon Gold potatoes. The scallops arrive perfectly seared with that caramelized exterior you crave.
Trout Amandine: Delicate rainbow trout is filleted and topped with toasted almond slices in lightly browned butter. The fish stays moist and flaky, while the almonds add a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
Salmon Eze: This mustard-encrusted pan-seared Atlantic salmon fillet gets dressed in a mustard herb sauce featuring honey, tarragon, cilantro, and thyme, then served over garlic-sautéed baby spinach. The herbaceous flavors brighten each bite.
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Keep Exploring →The Bread: You’ll notice it immediately—fresh-baked in-house, this bread arrives warm with a crackling crust and tender interior. The quality olive oil served alongside is worth noting too, perfect for dipping between courses.
Drinks & Desserts
Wine Selection: The bistro offers well-priced French wines by the glass and bottle, providing solid options to complement your meal. The house wines, both red and white, consistently receive praise.
Cocktails: The Cosmopolitans here have developed a reputation as some of the best around. The bar also crafts French Martinis and other classic cocktails with skill.
Complimentary Elixir: After your meal, you’ll often be treated to the owner’s homemade after-dinner elixir—a generous touch that adds a memorable finish to your dining experience.
Crème Brûlée: The custard achieves that ideal creamy texture beneath a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. It’s classic French dessert at its finest.
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Discover MoreChocolate Lava Cake: Rich, decadent, and served warm with the center flowing just right. Add ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Profiteroles: Light choux pastries filled with cream and drizzled with chocolate make for an elegant way to end your meal.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
Classic Bistro Décor: Step inside and you’re transported to France. French country antiques dot the space, vintage French advertising posters line the walls, and family pictures create an intimate, homey feeling.
The copper-topped oak bar sits as a centerpiece, while pastel walls and dark woods complete the authentic bistro aesthetic.
Intimate Setting: This isn’t a large space, which actually adds to its charm. The close quarters foster a cozy, romantic atmosphere perfect for date nights or special occasions. Tables fill up quickly, especially on weekends, creating a lively buzz without becoming overwhelming.
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Keep Exploring →Lighting & Mood: The lighting strikes that perfect balance—elegant enough for romance, comfortable enough that you can actually see your food. Conversations flow easily without needing to raise your voice.
Outdoor Seating: A small outdoor area offers al fresco dining when weather permits. It’s pet-friendly too, so you can bring along your four-legged companion.
Bar Area: The central oak bar with its copper top makes an excellent spot for solo diners or those wanting to enjoy cocktails and appetizers in a more casual setting.
Other Considerations
Pricing: You’re looking at mid-range pricing with entrees typically falling in the $21-$45 range. For authentic French cuisine with generous portions and quality ingredients, it represents fair value. The house wines are particularly well-priced.
Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. This small bistro fills up fast, and walk-ins might face a wait. You can book online or call ahead.
Parking: Convenient private parking lot on-site takes the stress out of arrival. No circling the block or hunting for street parking required.
Best Times to Visit: Arrive early if you haven’t reserved—around 5:30 PM gives you better chances of snagging a table. Weekday lunches tend to be less crowded than dinner service. Sunday brunch offers a different menu worth exploring.
Special Events: Watch for their seasonal Mussel Festival featuring multiple mussel preparations, and Bastille Day celebrations in July with special menus and live music.
Hidden Location: The exterior doesn’t announce itself boldly, and you might need GPS to find it if you’re unfamiliar with the area. But as regulars know, the unassuming facade hides a first-rate dining experience.
Private Dining: A back room accommodates larger groups and special events, making it suitable for celebrations, business dinners, or family gatherings.
Dietary Options: The menu includes gluten-free selections, and the kitchen accommodates dietary needs when possible. Vegetarian options like the veggie burger and various salads provide alternatives.
Portion Sizes: Come hungry. The portions here are notably generous, and you’ll likely have leftovers. The takeout containers could be sturdier, so handle with care.
Sophie’s Bistro
📍 700 Hamilton St, Somerset, NJ 08873
