Preview by Deb Hall
This is a report on a pre-opening media tasting. La Coop opens to the public on Tuesday, April 24.

The latest addition to the East Market corridor – La Coop-Bistro A Vins – aims for the welcoming ambience of a neighborhood French bistro, and succeeds very well. They’ve done amazing things with the former 732 Social space- now transformed from its former industrial vibe into a warm and inviting space that feels very much like the actual bistros in France.

La Coop promises “French comfort food with a modern twist”, and based on my sampling at a recent preview, executes this very well. Corporate Executive Chef Michael Ton (Basa, Doc Crow’s) and Executive Chef Bobby Benjamin (late of The Oakroom) have created a menu of approachable French bistro classics. The most expensive dish is the Steak Frites at $20; small plates in the dinner menu top out at $8.

Our favorites included Hotdog Agneau (pictured above, a well-flavored lamb sausage wiener with house-made chowchow, $7), Lard de Maison (crisp and unctuous pork belly served over sweet potato butter, $8), and the excellent Steak Frites (perfectly prepared, and a contender for the best “fries” in town). Cocktails include both classic aperitifs (Kir) and creative concoctions (Yellow Parrot with a twist).

With the addition of seasonal sidewalk dining along bustling East Market Street, La Coop promises to deliver great casual French dining, without having to leave La ‘Ville.

Open Tuesday thru Saturday, La Coop offers both small plates (entrees) and mains (plats) for dinner, plus sandwiches and daily crepe specials for lunch. Reservations accepted;

La Coop-Bistro A Vins
732 E. Market St.
www.coopbistro.com