Last night was a regrettable experience that will ensure, unfortunately, that we no longer frequent La Cuisine. We last dined in November for dinner and enjoyed each course. Stark contrast to last night.The foie gras was served with a gingerbread that was not near as moist as we've had in past visits. We each ordered the cassoulet which was served with room temperature white beans. Our server was very understanding and apologetic. As we had both cut into and tasted our duck and sausage, we expected to be served new entrees in their entirety . Instead, one cassoulet was served with all new proteins, while my guest was served a plate with a partially eaten duck thigh and a sausage that had been cut into. Unacceptable. In short, it took three attempts for La Cuisine to perfect a classic french dish.Our server couldn't have been more understanding. While he offerred to comp the two souffles we had ordered at upon being seated, I asked for both entrees to be comped as they were the issue. He agreed and spoke with Patrice, the co-owner, who is usually floating around. Patrice displayed a true lack of hospitality and cited their overhead and that we shouldn't expect to eat for free, wow. Such a lack of professionalism and decorum. He did begrudgingly comp each entree and both souffles, too little too late.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 1
Jared
Absolutely loved our visit here. The atmosphere, cocktails, service, and food were amazing. The owner was also kind enough to visit with us at the bar. Very welcoming. We got the rack of lamb and the escargot. Both cooked to perfection. Great date night location. Will be coming back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: 6 Escargots De Bourgogne, Mashed Potatoes
Ursula Brantley
I cannot give this restaurant a rating as we were denied access with service dogs. The hostess comment was it is complicated. We were told they were booked both inside and out. Went by later and they had were empty on the outside patio. Certainly a bit too high class for folks less fortunate.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Rose Zaidi Saad
My recent brunch at La Cuisine Restaurant was an unforgettable experience, especially with their unique basil French toast on the menu. The basil-infused French toast was a delightful twist on a classic dish, with each slice perfectly cooked to golden perfection and infused with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. The flavor combination was unexpected but utterly delicious, with the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complementing the savory notes of the basil. The ambiance at La Cuisine was charming and cozy, and the service was attentive, making it a truly memorable dining experience. If you're looking for a brunch spot that offers something out of the ordinary, La Cuisine Restaurant is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
KP
Not GF friendly, the menu advertises GF and GF possible options. I told the server that I had an allergy to gluten. I ordered the grouper and kitchen did not make it GF. Sadly I ate half of the dish before realizing the mistake and will have to deal with the consequences this even. So sad bc this is one of the only nice restaurants open on sundays.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
Jane Celentano
Well, Sean was our server for brunch. When the check came, we had been double charged for both our entrees, only the duplicate charge was put under a similar name. When my companion said, you need to look at this bill, the words were not even spoken before Sean replied, ok and ran off to delete the duplicate but different items. OBVIOUSLY A SCAM.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 1
J'taime La Cuisine. Have always loved it. Tonight was good. Starting with delicious bread and a Caesar salad to remember with whole anchovies! Frog legs were wonderful and tender. Even the bujoulais was excellent. I had cassoulet. Very good, not remarkable but I took some home. Ambiance with the jazz group was outstanding. Our friends were impressed. Still the nicest restaurant in Ocala in my view.
Linda Fogarty
We have been here about 5 times now and will never go back. My sister introduced me to this place and the first couple of times were great. That was a few years ago, and since then things have gone down hill. The food has been very inconsistent and it’s been either too salty or not salty enough. For instance, the truffle fries were great the first few times dining here. After that, they have been inedible. They are way too salty and too much truffle! My husband would always get the swordfish but the last few times, it was much too salty to really enjoy. I had the airline chicken breast and you could tell they must have forgot to salt the pasta water and if that is not done, it’s hard to get the salt right after it is cooked. The pasta was tasteless. The chicken was very good though.What made us decide to never go back to this restaurant, was the extremely RUDE hostess. We asked twice if we could sit before our reservation. I wouldn’t have if it weren’t for the fact that the place was just about closed and there was hardly anyone in the place. She said with no apologies at all, she would and could not do that. So 10 minutes before our reservation, and nope, had to wait no apologies and quite stern about it. Now I have a chronic illness that makes it difficult to stand very long or sit in uncomfortable chairs. Well there is barely a seat to sit on but of the few seats, I was able to sit, albeit uncomfortable. We were also very hungry and we were hoping that they would let us in early since the place was empty and almost closed. I have been in the restaurant business for years, and I know exactly what to expect. It was unbelievable how rude she was and we would have never ever treated a customer in such a way. I noticed while reading the reviews, that there have been others who had the same experience. Something I will share with you from being in the restaurant business. This hostess must have direct instructions from the owner that this how he wants things done. It’s obvious that the rule is no seating anyone before their reservation. The owner sets the tone. If not, a hostess like this would never ever be tolerated! She would have been fired long ago. I think the problem is the fact that this is the only French restaurant in Ocala, and without any competition in the French food department, they see little reason to change. Lastly, their is very little selection on the menu and for picky eaters this is NOT the place. Also, the menu items are extremely expensive for what you get as well. The positives: the wait staff had always been the very best service you could get in Ocala. Having said that, it doesn’t make up for the front of the restaurant or the inconsistencies in food. Oh, if they have music, it is always very good although just a little loud but the restaurant is small so it’s hard to adjust the sound much. This place obviously doesn’t care one bit about losing customers which shows no appreciation at all for those of us who were returning customers. Your customers are your life in the restaurant business but apparently they thing that they have enough and they don’t care if you don’t come back. The message was loud and clear.
Kimberly Evans
This was fabulous!!! EVERYTHING was DELICIOUS!! The pear purse appetizers and scallops are delicious. The swordfish AWESOME!! I don't believe there would be anything on the menu that I wouldn't like!! Our server was Michael, he was a delight. All the other staff members were just as friendly. If I could give 10 stars I would!! It's a must try!!!! COMPLEMENTS TO THE CHEF!!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pan Seared Scallops
Trish Marino
Awesome experience from start to finish! Ryan was our server and he was phenomenal! We had a party of 7 and sat outside. Appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks were all great! Ryan suggested a few things and told us his favorites! None of his recommendations disappointed! Will for sure be going back in the near future!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: 6 Escargots De Bourgogne, Beef Bourguignon, Mashed Potatoes, Crème Brûlée, Mousse Au Chocolat
More hype than anything else! Have to say the rudest, unprofessional host I’ve encountered in many years. The restaurant was empty. We were 10 minutes early to our reservations, and she declined to seat us. Was very rude and disrespectful and non-accommodating. This is not the first time that I have seen this host at the front desk behave in such a rude manner to clients. in summary, it is not worth the aggravation as clients are really seeking to have a good time in a relaxing atmosphere.
First time to the restaurant but for sure will be back. The food was lovely and the owner and staff very attentive. I had lamb chops and they were yummy. Thank you again for a nice evening.
Last night was a regrettable experience that will ensure, unfortunately, that we no longer frequent La Cuisine. We last dined in November for dinner and enjoyed each course. Stark contrast to last night.The foie gras was served with a gingerbread that was not near as moist as we've had in past visits. We each ordered the cassoulet which was served with room temperature white beans. Our server was very understanding and apologetic. As we had both cut into and tasted our duck and sausage, we expected to be served new entrees in their entirety . Instead, one cassoulet was served with all new proteins, while my guest was served a plate with a partially eaten duck thigh and a sausage that had been cut into. Unacceptable. In short, it took three attempts for La Cuisine to perfect a classic french dish.Our server couldn't have been more understanding. While he offerred to comp the two souffles we had ordered at upon being seated, I asked for both entrees to be comped as they were the issue. He agreed and spoke with Patrice, the co-owner, who is usually floating around. Patrice displayed a true lack of hospitality and cited their overhead and that we shouldn't expect to eat for free, wow. Such a lack of professionalism and decorum. He did begrudgingly comp each entree and both souffles, too little too late.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 1
Absolutely loved our visit here. The atmosphere, cocktails, service, and food were amazing. The owner was also kind enough to visit with us at the bar. Very welcoming. We got the rack of lamb and the escargot. Both cooked to perfection. Great date night location. Will be coming back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: 6 Escargots De Bourgogne, Mashed Potatoes
I cannot give this restaurant a rating as we were denied access with service dogs. The hostess comment was it is complicated. We were told they were booked both inside and out. Went by later and they had were empty on the outside patio. Certainly a bit too high class for folks less fortunate.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
My recent brunch at La Cuisine Restaurant was an unforgettable experience, especially with their unique basil French toast on the menu. The basil-infused French toast was a delightful twist on a classic dish, with each slice perfectly cooked to golden perfection and infused with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. The flavor combination was unexpected but utterly delicious, with the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complementing the savory notes of the basil. The ambiance at La Cuisine was charming and cozy, and the service was attentive, making it a truly memorable dining experience. If you're looking for a brunch spot that offers something out of the ordinary, La Cuisine Restaurant is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Not GF friendly, the menu advertises GF and GF possible options. I told the server that I had an allergy to gluten. I ordered the grouper and kitchen did not make it GF. Sadly I ate half of the dish before realizing the mistake and will have to deal with the consequences this even. So sad bc this is one of the only nice restaurants open on sundays.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
Well, Sean was our server for brunch. When the check came, we had been double charged for both our entrees, only the duplicate charge was put under a similar name. When my companion said, you need to look at this bill, the words were not even spoken before Sean replied, ok and ran off to delete the duplicate but different items. OBVIOUSLY A SCAM.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 1
J'taime La Cuisine. Have always loved it. Tonight was good. Starting with delicious bread and a Caesar salad to remember with whole anchovies! Frog legs were wonderful and tender. Even the bujoulais was excellent. I had cassoulet. Very good, not remarkable but I took some home. Ambiance with the jazz group was outstanding. Our friends were impressed. Still the nicest restaurant in Ocala in my view.
We have been here about 5 times now and will never go back. My sister introduced me to this place and the first couple of times were great. That was a few years ago, and since then things have gone down hill. The food has been very inconsistent and it’s been either too salty or not salty enough. For instance, the truffle fries were great the first few times dining here. After that, they have been inedible. They are way too salty and too much truffle! My husband would always get the swordfish but the last few times, it was much too salty to really enjoy. I had the airline chicken breast and you could tell they must have forgot to salt the pasta water and if that is not done, it’s hard to get the salt right after it is cooked. The pasta was tasteless. The chicken was very good though.What made us decide to never go back to this restaurant, was the extremely RUDE hostess. We asked twice if we could sit before our reservation. I wouldn’t have if it weren’t for the fact that the place was just about closed and there was hardly anyone in the place. She said with no apologies at all, she would and could not do that. So 10 minutes before our reservation, and nope, had to wait no apologies and quite stern about it. Now I have a chronic illness that makes it difficult to stand very long or sit in uncomfortable chairs. Well there is barely a seat to sit on but of the few seats, I was able to sit, albeit uncomfortable. We were also very hungry and we were hoping that they would let us in early since the place was empty and almost closed. I have been in the restaurant business for years, and I know exactly what to expect. It was unbelievable how rude she was and we would have never ever treated a customer in such a way. I noticed while reading the reviews, that there have been others who had the same experience. Something I will share with you from being in the restaurant business. This hostess must have direct instructions from the owner that this how he wants things done. It’s obvious that the rule is no seating anyone before their reservation. The owner sets the tone. If not, a hostess like this would never ever be tolerated! She would have been fired long ago. I think the problem is the fact that this is the only French restaurant in Ocala, and without any competition in the French food department, they see little reason to change. Lastly, their is very little selection on the menu and for picky eaters this is NOT the place. Also, the menu items are extremely expensive for what you get as well. The positives: the wait staff had always been the very best service you could get in Ocala. Having said that, it doesn’t make up for the front of the restaurant or the inconsistencies in food. Oh, if they have music, it is always very good although just a little loud but the restaurant is small so it’s hard to adjust the sound much. This place obviously doesn’t care one bit about losing customers which shows no appreciation at all for those of us who were returning customers. Your customers are your life in the restaurant business but apparently they thing that they have enough and they don’t care if you don’t come back. The message was loud and clear.
This was fabulous!!! EVERYTHING was DELICIOUS!! The pear purse appetizers and scallops are delicious. The swordfish AWESOME!! I don't believe there would be anything on the menu that I wouldn't like!! Our server was Michael, he was a delight. All the other staff members were just as friendly. If I could give 10 stars I would!! It's a must try!!!! COMPLEMENTS TO THE CHEF!!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pan Seared Scallops
Awesome experience from start to finish! Ryan was our server and he was phenomenal! We had a party of 7 and sat outside. Appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks were all great! Ryan suggested a few things and told us his favorites! None of his recommendations disappointed! Will for sure be going back in the near future!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: 6 Escargots De Bourgogne, Beef Bourguignon, Mashed Potatoes, Crème Brûlée, Mousse Au Chocolat
Restaurantji Recommends
One meal hot, one cold; very limited menu;
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 5
More hype than anything else! Have to say the rudest, unprofessional host I’ve encountered in many years. The restaurant was empty. We were 10 minutes early to our reservations, and she declined to seat us. Was very rude and disrespectful and non-accommodating. This is not the first time that I have seen this host at the front desk behave in such a rude manner to clients. in summary, it is not worth the aggravation as clients are really seeking to have a good time in a relaxing atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 1
Dietary restrictions: Celiac friendly gluten free options
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Creme Brulee
Great meal and drinks!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
First time to the restaurant but for sure will be back. The food was lovely and the owner and staff very attentive. I had lamb chops and they were yummy. Thank you again for a nice evening.