y Grace Cheung,
Special to The Post 

A few months ago, I tried out the new incarnation of Bistrot Bistro in Kitsilano, now named Le Cigale. I hadn't been to the old restaurant, but I’ve been interested in French cuisine lately, so I decided it was time to give it a try.
Instead of the usual bread and butter, dinner kicked off with little pastry puffs, sprinkled with sesame. These were delightful, flakey with just a hint of saltiness. We ordered the French Onion Soup which was loaded with cheese melting lovingly over the vessel. It was all I could do to refrain from slurping it up. The broth was dark, sweet and loaded with caramelized onions. It's a rich dish, but if you are a fan of French Onion Soup, this is one of the better ones in Vancouver.
Next, I tried the Lamb Shank. I love meats served on the bone, and this was literally falling off the bone. The veggies accompanying the lamb were tender, and the flavours were mildly Moroccan. We also ordered the Duck Confit which was on special that evening. The skin was crispy, and I really enjoyed the casual chop on the potato too.
La Cigale Bistro offers French food without being fussy.

Grace Cheung is a leading food blogger on Urban Spoon. 
Read more of her reviews at www.xmasbb.blogspot.ca.

La Cigale French Bistro
1961 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
(604) 732-0004

Take Note:
• Weekend brunch is available, and yes, French Onion Soup is on the menu.
• Dinner seems to be better than lunch for food and service.
• 3-Course Prix Fixe menu is available for $32 Sun-Thurs.