Thursday, July 28th, 2011
Although legions of Bathonians still mourn the passing of long-established Heritage City merrymaking institution the Moon and Sixpence, Côte – albeit yet another (whisper it) high street chain – has neatly carved a stylish niche for itself at the heart of upmarket shopping complex Milsom Place, seamlessly bridging the gap between days gone by and right here, right now.
Further substantiating that bridge-crossing theme, find Côte by wandering along the atmospheric cobbled passages that lead directly through to an elegant vista combining newly-restored highlights of the original ancient setting with modern renovation flourishes, complete with plenty of courtyard alfresco opportunities; it’s all big on contemporary charm while cleverly retaining a sense of historical tradition. Menus, meanwhile, strictly adhere to the chain’s USP revolving around “simple, freshly prepared French food at value for money prices”; wallet-friendly deals (for example, the 12noon-7pm two-course Franglais feast for £9.95 at the time of writing) are well-considered and generous to say the least, but even those who go as far up the menu as possible (fillet steak, circa £17.95) wouldn’t leave feeling short changed. Spontaneous grazers are well-catered for, too; should the sun suddenly shine, take to the open air upper-level terrace with a bottle of house wine (£14.50), a platter of saucisson sec (£2.95) and a slab of thyme-infused Reblochon pissaladière (£3.95) and prepare for a full-on staycation experience. Santé!
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