The Corner Bistro gets its name from being anchored at the corner of a standard strip mall along a busy stretch of Route 10 East. But once you’re inside, the space is both intimate and elegant. Amber hues, crisp white tablecloths, rich warm woodwork and a trickling stone water wall all create a tranquil and relaxing spot to enjoy the continental menu that is often tweaked with the influence of the owners’ Guatemalan roots.
One of the BYO’s most lovely features is the live music on Thursday and Saturday evenings. We settled into a cozy booth right next to world-renowned, Juilliard trained pianist Rio Clemente playing show tunes and jazz compositions along with the revolving accompaniment of several guest artists.
Surf n’ turf. Photo by Suzanne Zimmer Lowery
Appetizers like clam chowder, calamari, mussels and crab cakes are offered on the standard menu, but an ever-changing selection of specials are where you will find some of the finer choices. Our plump round of creamy burrata cheese was served over thin slices of juicy, ripe tomatoes drizzled with a pungent balsamic reduction. Although the tomatoes were of a quality not often found in the middle of winter, a few slices of fresh bread would have been a nice addition. The super-crispy coconut shrimp served with a citrusy sweet chili sauce was another excellent choice, as was the lobster bisque, choc-full of meaty chunks of seafood swimming in a creamy light pink broth.
Red snapper. Photo by Suzanne Zimmer Lowery
From the regular menu, the Surf n’ Turf flat iron steak was juicy and done just as ordered, and was topped with three jumbo shrimp, lightly napped in scampi garlic butter. Back on the specials side, the pan-seared sliced duck breast was also done as requested, a little on the well side, and accompanied by a sleek raspberry sauce with a smoky hit of port wine. The golden-bronzed filet of red snapper displayed a Spanish touch with a tomato and olive sauce dotted with petite shrimp. Both specials were plated with squares of cheesy, soft scalloped potatoes and haricot vert green beans cooked just until they had the perfect soft snap.
Desserts often include Latin specialties like tres leches cake and flan custard, but despite its ubiquitous presence on every menu around, our favorite was the crème brulee, with its perfectly silken custard topped with just the right amount of crispy caramelized sugar.
With its attentive and friendly service, serene atmosphere and well-composed dishes, the Corner Bistro makes for a delightful night out.
The Corner Bistro, 477 Route 10, Randolph; 862-251-7274; BYO. Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday 11am – 10 pm, Saturday 9 am – 10 pm, Sunday 9 am – 9 pm.