Located on 112 Arnould Blvd., Siro’s Bistro is a European style bistro serving fresh classics for an affordable price. The establishment opened in 1994, and was originally located in the Oil Center. After 20 years, they made the move to Arnould Blvd. in 2014, taking the spot previously filled by Damascus, a now closed Middle Eastern restaurant.
Even at just a glance, there is an impressive number of sandwich, wrap and panini varieties served, which are definitely the stars of their menu. All these options were priced from $9.49 to $10.49. Some of the sandwich options include the California Turkey, Cajun Peppersteak, Greek Veggie, Roast Beef or Chicken Italiano. There is even a daily special from Monday to Saturday; for the special, that sandwich type, along with a side Caesar salad and cup of soup will run you just $9.50.
Paninis at the restaurant include the Southwestern Chicken and Roasted Chicken Salad, while wraps include the Chipotle Ranch and Smoked Turkey and Avocado Wrap. Salads like the Bourbon St. Chef, Greek, and Chicken Cobb can be ordered on their own or paired with one of their soups such as French Onion, Tomato Basil or Loaded Potato. This bistro also serves two appetizers: Spinach and Artichoke and Hummus.
Nearly all of these options can have their type of bread, protein, or dressing swapped. With so many combinations of your tried and true, affordable classics, the real question is how they taste.
My colleague and I visited this establishment on Saturday, March 14. Upon entering, the stereo system played non-stop, New Orleans style jazz. The atmosphere was warm, with terracotta colored walls and closely arranged tables and chairs. You place your order at the counter in the back, then your food is brought to you.
Family photos decorated the counter as I ordered the Saturday special, Shrimp Salad, as my sandwich alongside a side Caesar salad and French Onion Soup. My colleague opted for the French Muffaletta sandwich, which was a mix of ham, salami and bologna with provolone cheese and olive salad. We both opted for water, but they have a few drink options. Namely, they had Coca-Cola brand fountain drinks, fresh lemonade and sweet or unsweet tea.
We were given a number plate and sat at a table near the window. Our food took around 20 minutes to prepare. I was actually given their Tomato Basil Soup by mistake, which interestingly worked out in my favor as I actually preferred it to the French Onion Soup they brought to me after realizing.
The Shrimp Salad Sandwich was very fresh with baby shrimp mixed with crunchy vegetables like celery and red onion. The Caesar Salad had fresh lettuce, though I wish there was a bit more cheese and croutons. The soups, though, were definitely my favorite. The French Onion had dark, savory broth with a layer of melty cheese on the top. Their Tomato Basil was even better; it was thick and peppery, almost like a ragu.
For the price and atmosphere, I’d definitely check this place out. The price really can’t be beat for what you get: the classics. Next time you’re running errands on Johnston Street, take a lunch break here. A simple sandwich and warm cup of soup surrounded by jazz music will be a nice addition to your day, especially for barely more than ten dollars.
If you would like to visit Siro’s Bistro, they are open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday through Friday from 10 a.m., to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed on Sundays.