FoodHawk Review:
Bess Bistro on W. 6th is, in a word, smart. Sandra Bullock's first entry in the Austin restaurant scene couldn't be more polished, comfortable.or popular! Judging from a recent lunch the small eatery, located cleverly in the downstairs room beneath the Stratford Arms building east of Lamar, was jamming up well before Noon. And the chatter of happy diners combined with understated jazz music created an atmosphere not unlike a '20s speakeasy. Brick walls, gas lights, intimate coves and a lovely bar complete the urban ambiance. The relatively limited menu, under the direction of Chef Brenton Childs, is crowded with tasty selections. Lunch begins with a selection of delicious, petite salads followed by either a "comfort food" sandwich such as the croquet monsieur or a main course like grilled wild salmon. Dinner is much more ambitious, with starters like hummus, baba ghanouj and tabouli followed by additional entree meat, pasta and seafood dishes like the porcini-crusted halibut.  Day or night, don't leave without trying the wonderful pomme frites. With valet service and ample on- and off-6th parking, Bess avoids the biggest fright for Central Austin dining. I don't have to tell you that a "Sandy sighting" is always a special treat, but Bess can stand on its own two feet. Try this place soon.but get your reservations early.