Le Bouchon, Daphne

Finding a nice place that is open for dinner on a Monday night on the Eastern Shore is often a challenge. I am lucky to have found a jewel in Le Bouchon, Wine and Tapas Bar in Daphne. On old Highway 98, just past Manci’s Antique Club, it's a destination all its own. I am a big fan of Caitlin Horne, chef at Kitchen on Main, and I heard that she cooks on Monday nights at this Bar, so I checked this off my to-do list.

When I opened the door to this small, tucked-away place, I was reminded of classy, elegant bistros in cosmopolitan cities.  The lighting is soft and romantic and a long beautiful bar is surrounded by tables, sofas, and armchairs for those who wish to lounge. Guests were enjoying themselves, laughing and talking, but it was quiet enough for us to talk to each other while still feeling the good vibes from the others. Destination, Date Night!

With over 90 different wines from around the world, many served by the glass, they also have a very good selection of Craft beers. I ordered a French Rose, which was served in a really stunning glass. This stylish touch made a big impression! 

There was an every-night regular menu for food, which was available, but on this night, I wanted to try Caitlin’s specials. She greeted us with a mini chalkboard of the items she had prepared for the night. I ordered Flatbread with spicy eggplant spread, red onion, and tomatoes. My friend chose Gnocchi in a lemon Romano cream sauce and Hubby had hummus with pita and fresh vegetables.  

Because it is a tapas bar, we were prepared to share. The gnocchi was house-made that afternoon and it was superb. My flatbread was delicious, too. Desserts, coconut cream pie and blueberry cheesecake with fresh lime curd were tempting but we were happy and full from our tapas.

Tonya Garrett, the owner, came to our table and we told her how much we loved her place and asked exactly what the French  “Le Bouchon” means in English. She tells us it is a stopper for a bottle, like a cork. What a perfect name for a sophisticated wine bar! 

Open Sunday and Monday from 4 pm to 8 pm and  Tuesday-Saturday from 4 pm to 10 pm, the address is 1903C Main Street in Daphne. They have wine-tasting events often and sip-and-shop pop-up retail sales as well.  

Music is featured on Thursday through Saturday nights with performances by Elise Taylor, Manuel Gutierrez, and Marcs Elizondo to name a few. Follow them on Facebook to keep up with their many specials and events.  Started in 2016, Le Bouchon is a great addition to the Scenic 98 Coastal Scene.