Chez Zee American Bistro

I had been wanting to visit since we moved here 2 years ago. Many people have recommended it , including on reddit as a romantic place but also family friendly. We went with the intent to only order dessert as a celebration of a special event. We were not asked if we were celebrating, as per custom but I also didn't mention it so whatever. After we noticed other gluten free and dairy free options we decided to order meals. The server was friendly and attentive despite it being very busy. She was careful with our children's allergies which I truly appreciate. The atmosphere is very 90s grandma's house but with all the cousins and crazy aunts over, which is too say loud, chaotic and drunk people all over. I would not call this place romantic or family friendly. The food was priced accordingly with other similar Austin restaurants, about $25 per plate. I had the pecan salmon, it was fine. Definitely not what the other reviews suggested. Something I would make at home on a weekday. Mine didn't have any delicious sauce. I added the sauce that came with the fried pickels to it bc it was very dry and had several bones which is expected. The fried pickels were very good. The batter was light and crunchy . We also ordered a burger it was fine. Kids meals were the usual with the exception of a healthy option which we love to see. it was a very small serving of protein even for a child, but a win is a win . The chocolate mouse was thick pretty much solid and very bitter but for a vegan gluten free option I'm glad there was something on the menu they could have at all. The creme Brule was runny and lacked flavor. We spent about $120 for 5 people but for that we could have gone to our regular place , kerby lane for similar price but better environment for a family already feeling over stimulated. The best thing we ordered was the side salad that had a great ceaser dressing , maybe house made ? Overall I don't understand the hype. Maybe we went on a bad day or time but the flavor and food quality wasn't what I expected after what I've heard. Very chain restaurant with only microwaves in the back. Good service and server doing her best with help. Also restrictive deit accommodating.

Chez Zee is a reliable place for absolutely delicious food, impeccable service, and pleasant French Bistro style atmosphere. The kind of place to bring out of town guests or a date. We shared a Belair salad, a delightful combination of baby greens, blueberries and jicama for a little crunch, and also shared an order of pan-fried trout with green beans and garlic mashed potatoes. We ended with the ultimate comfort food… a slice of Maida’s cake, delicate layers of gluten-free chocolate cake with generous whipped cream filling and light mocha frosting. The generous portions are enough for two meals and the quality is basically perfect. Our server was attentive and cheerfully split our plates, even though we arrived within an hour of closing time and sat outside by the fountain on the breezy patio.