East Bay Elites Discover The Art of the Cocktail at Bijou

 

 
 
 
 

Every new episode of the Yelp Elite show has its surprises and joys, but what's been consistent is our amazing ability to decimate the bar. Thanks to Bijou Restaurant & Bar and their talented band of mixologists East Bay Elites have finally met our match! 

Combining small-batch spirits and fine liqueurs with super fresh ingredients, they took muddling and shaking to a whole new level. The array of concoctions was astounding.  Even Bijou regular, Linda M, expanded her cocktail repertoire and knowledge of the drink making process.

Not only did the bar pull out all the stops, but the kitchen spoiled us silly!  Serving platter upon platter of salmon tartare and prosciutto wrapped scallops on radicchio, we'd have to agree with Veronica G when she declared: "the head chef brought his A++ game with his offerings."   Newcomer Jen R was uber impressed with the carrot cake from Hayward's own Black & White Bakery, while Ieesha M satisfied her sweet tooth with the red velvet cake and sweet cornbread (grandma's recipe!). We have the feeling they'll be back to an Elite event again.

Three cheers for Ben, Jay and the awesome crew at Bijou, we've never felt so welcomed and indulged. Josefina and Salvador of Black & White, we loved your baked goodies, and you'll definitely see us in the shop soon!

 Of course, you can't miss shots of all the action from photographer, Nick Sebastian. Get the scoop from the Elite's themselves, reviews of the event here. As Ahmed S notes, "I would have never ventured out here had it not been for Yelp". Indeed, it's our intrepid community members (like YOU) that should be recognized for pointing us in the direction of gems like these. Cheers to yelpers, far and wide!

Catch ya next month for our next adventure in the East Bay...