yes on 45

Shame on S. Irene Virbila for her ill-conceived review, “Little Old Bistro in Pasadena” (July 14). As one who has been a delighted guest at Bistro 45 on many occasions during the past several years, I am inclined to disagree with her on every count. I, and the countless diners to whom I have recommended Bistro 45 as one of Pasadena’s finest, have never found the “pretensions” or the “unexciting” dishes that Virbila refers to.

Jack C. Janss

Pasadena

*

Virbila does a serious disservice to readers who may bypass Bistro 45 based on her jaundiced review.

Bistro 45 does a superb, not just “creditable,” job with fish and the rest of its menu. The meat dishes I have sampled have been of superior quality, succulent and perfectly cooked to my order. The staff is well-trained and the service always delightful. All restaurants should offer the same degree of attentiveness.

Kimi Mann

South Pasadena

*

My business travels allow me to extensively pursue my passion for good food and wine; my wife and I always seek out the best restaurant in any city we visit. We are also part owners of an Old Town Pasadena restaurant, Bistro L’Ecluse. We know what a good dining experience should be. Which is why I am baffled as to how Virbila could have so missed the mark with Bistro 45. Harvey Steiman of the Wine Spectator called Bistro 45 one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles. As did Gourmet magazine.

As long as Virbila is blinded by the bright lights of a Wolfgang Puck or a Joachim Splichal, my friends and I are not inclined to take her seriously.

Peter Dempster

Pasadena

*

At a recent birthday party held at Bistro 45, the praise for the food, wine and service was at such a peak that several of us felt compelled to broadcast our approval for the exceptional victuals and vins of the “little old bistro.”

Let it be known there are half a hundred people who definitely disagree with Virbila’s appraisal.

Ray Considine

Pasadena