By Jennifer Speer

Enchanting is the word that comes to mind when thinking of the Bistro Garden in Studio City. On a busy night, the tables full and servers bustling, conversation and laughter and sumptuous scents fill the air, and the lights on the trees in the winter garden shimmer all around you. Piano music drifts gently through the rooms, the fire dances in the dining room fireplace, perfect service greets you at every turn, and somehow you feel as though when you leave you could find yourself strolling down a street in Europe … and so you can’t wait to return to reenter the dream that Bistro Garden provides.

Originally located in Beverly Hills, The Bistro fast became the domain of L.A.’s dining elite. Now, that same tradition and quality continues here at The Bistro Garden in Studio City, where Gregory Pappas and his wife Carolyn Niklas Pappas have a continuity of class that is unsurpassed. Their daughter Christina, 25, has added her skills and flair to the fourth generation of Pappas/Niklas families operating in Los Angeles. She handles catering and office management.

The Bistro Garden is a restaurant in a beautiful European garden-like setting, the light from the day filtering through glass latticework and the expansive skylights, while the soaring 30 ft. ceiling opens up the room for an outdoor feel. They also have a private dining room which seats up to 70 guests and features a 17th century large marble fireplace, crystal chandeliers, and a Parquet wood floor. This magical venue is a top wedding and private event location and has been the setting for numerous television and movie shoots.

A highlight of the Bistro Garden is their Sunday Brunch (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) with a complimentary mimosa or glass of champagne included with your meal. Their Happy Hour is a great way to relax after a hard day’s work with a fantastic bar menu and daily drink specials (M-F, 4-6:30 p.m.) They also have a delectable dessert menu, starring their infamous Chocolate Soufflés, which are available for takeout.

As well as Brunch, they have separate menus for Lunch (M-F, 11 a.m.—3 p.m.) and Dinner (Sun-Th, 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. & F-Sat until 11 p.m.) Their special event menus for Christmas and New Year’s Eve are beautifully varied with mouthwatering temptations. They also serve high tea for the ladies, picnic baskets, a deep bar menu that is available all hours, and a full catering service, ready to handle your every possible need for any occasion.

The Bistro Garden is located at 12950 Ventura Blvd. in Studio City. You can reach them at or visit bistrogarden.com. Reservations recommended.