While it’s not quite spring yet, after all the endless rain, the sunshine feels like a new season. And what’s better to welcome in sunny weather than a lovely meal in Old Milford at Chez Renée.
This area is such a nice place to stroll before heading into Chez Renée for a light repast. The historic streets of Old Milford have become one of the area’s most pleasant little destinations, filled with small shops, galleries and restaurants, and on a bright afternoon there is a relaxed energy in the air. By the time I made my way to the restaurant, I was more than ready to settle in and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Chez Renée has the comfortable feeling one hopes for in a neighborhood bistro. The dining room is warm and inviting, with just enough French character in the décor to remind you that the kitchen takes its inspiration seriously. Nothing feels forced or overly formal; instead the atmosphere encourages you to sit back, relax and enjoy a meal at an unhurried pace.
I began with a cheese plate appetizer, always a reliable choice when starting a meal.
The cheese was presented in a nice variety, although surprisingly, not all French. The dish featured imported Brie, flavorful gouda and some unanticipated manchego, which is one of my favorite cheeses I often look for. Served with a crusty baguette, the appetizer was a perfect way to start.
To accompany my lunch I selected a glass of Vouvray, a classic white wine from France’s Loire Valley made from Chenin Blanc. Vouvray is one of those wines that rewards anyone willing to step outside the usual Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio routine. This one was bright and aromatic, with gentle fruit and a clean finish that paired beautifully with both the formage and the main course that followed.
Cheese Plate
Speaking of the main course, I decided to try the Orange Chicken. While the name might not immediately suggest a traditional bistro dish, the preparation showed the same attention to balance that runs throughout the menu. The chicken was tender and tasty, coated in a citrus-forward sauce that delivered a pleasant orange brightness without overwhelming the dish with sweetness. The result was flavorful yet restrained — satisfying but not heavy — exactly the sort of meal that feels right on a sunny afternoon.
What stands out most about Chez Renée is the sense that everything is done thoughtfully. The menu is approachable, the portions are comfortable and the experience encourages conversation and lingering at the table rather than rushing through a meal. It’s the kind of place that fits naturally into the rhythm of a relaxed day in Milford.
Orange Chicken
After finishing lunch and the last sips of Vouvray, I stepped back outside into the sunshine and took another walk along the street. Somehow the afternoon felt even brighter after a good meal. And that, perhaps, is the best compliment one can give a neighborhood bistro like Chez Renée. So, if you’re in the mood for lovely lunch or dinner, head to Old Milford for a visit, because Chez Renée is place where the last bite lingers long after it’s gone.
