Trio Bistro & Grill

I agree that you can't expect fast service here, but there's a vast middle ground between fast food and reasonable service. The 2 times I've been there the food was great, but to take three hours to eat is ridiculous - the issue is the staffing - it is simply the chef and her mother, the hostess and server. Simply not enough staff and when I asked for my long overdue glass of wine, I was swiftly rebuked by the mother coming to the defense of her daughter as being "" a wonderful chef who takes her time"" - the chef doesn't make or deliver the wine! If they just added another server I'd go there again, but not when I see the poor service (and the attitude) continues. Pros: quality of food, ambience Cons: terrible service more

I am a bit disappointed in those who go to a French restaurant expecting American fast food experience. If you like the sit down and really enjoy meal for some time, then weve found the perfect place. The place is predicated on the mother daughter team that takes your order up close and personal. Then the cook serves wonderful food after carefully preparing it. My suggestion is to go late, stay awhile, and enjoy the dining experience. The food is much better (bank on the daily specials as well as the menu) and cheaper than most of the highly touted places in the bay area. Moms knows wines and daughter can cook that is all that counts in the end. Many of us have eaten in other parts of the world were dinner starts late and goes on for some time. As we borrow their food we should enjoy some of the lifestyle and smell a true rose. For the others, Nations burgers serves a quick meal. Pros: lake view at window seats and wine list Cons: street parking more

Friends recommended that we go to Trio Bistro, and we are so happy we did! We had a wonderful evening. The dining room is so pretty and romantic: soft colors, original art work, candle light and a gorgeous view of Lake Merrit. The service was professional and warm. It's a mother and daughter team, and from beginning to end they were incredible! The food was outstanding. We usually go to the city for a ""gourmet"" experience, but the delicious dinner we enjoyed at Trio was better than many of the ""top"" city spots-- and at a fraction of the price. Tasty entrees. Exquisite desserts (save room!) This mother/daughter team should be on TV! more

A friend recommended we go to Trio. We arrived at 7:30 and we were seated promptly. We had to get up to get our own menus after 30 minutes and then get up again to ask if we can have our order taken at 8:15. We had an appetizer, but by 9:50 our entree had not yet arrived. This is outrageous and inexcusable. I would never go back. The place is horribly understaffed. Cons: horrible serivce more

My partner and I stumbled into Trio by chance while walking our dog. It was late, but the owner was nice enough to set up a table outside, so our pooch can join. Just drinks turned into dinner. The food was amazing, and the service was warm and friendly. We plan to become frequent patrons. more

I just went to Trio Bistro last night for the first time and will definitely go back! As a vegetarian I normally stay away from French restaurants but at Trio Bistro there are plenty of different vegetarian enteers to choose from (the polenta pot pie was amazing as was the baked brie with marmalade). The service was excellent and the chef actually served our meal to us. She obviously took great care and thought in arranging the dishes. Atmosphere is romantic, cozy, and you can have a nice view of Lake Merritt. more

This mother-and daughter team is phenomenal. I've been many times with many groups of people and the service, ambiance, and downright culinary genious at this family-owned treasure continues to astound. Equally perfect for an intimate, romantic dinner for two or for larger gatherings of friends, Trio Bistro is AMAZING. Pros: charming, warm, friendly staff, "Big Night" quality more

Trio has always been a favorite of mine. My friend and I have a rivalry going about the spot. She can't stand the wait but loves the food. I, on the other hand, recognize what Trio is trying to accomplish. It is a restaurant that pays attention to detail. The food is exquisite. I have enjoyed the Pasta Trio, Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs, Polenta Pot Pie, Game Hen, and Potstickers (not in one night). Dessert is a must as well as the wonderful wine. When you have the time to treat yourself to a meal where time is not a factor, visit Trio. more