I have to admit, there is a lot to be desired from Bistro 71. The Bistro has been around a few years and is aiming to revitalize the downtown area, much like Frederick, MD has done in the past few years. However, Bistro 71 has got a ways to go. Here are my quick points:

• Atmosphere is very modern, and inviting. Interior is well decorated, especially if you enjoy a more modern look and feel

• The food is good, but not terrific. Requests can be taken, but do not expect them to be met.

• Bistro 71 is pricey. If you're looking to spend a lot of money on food, go to The Orchard's and actually get a meal that is worth the price.

• Small – if the place is busy, don't expect to find a room for you and eight of your friends. Remember, this is a bistro and not a family dining experience.

• Wait staff is amateur – two to three-star service should be expected.

Overall the food is good, but not worth the price or inexperienced wait staff.

Food was fabulous. We reserved a table on the patio & it was so lovely with great music for a relaxing special night out. A bit more pricy than franchise but has a sophisticated atmosphere. As we left there were musicians setting up to do live performance.

My husband and I went for drinks and appetizers. I had a chardonnay (sorry can't remember the name) that was good and my husband had Sam Adams summer ale. We shared an artichoke and goat cheese bruschetta that was very good. I had mussels that had a to die for cream saffron sauce with slices of grilled bread to dip in the sauce. The mussels were all good and small to medium as I like them. My husband had the spinach and strawberry salad with poppyseed dressing. The service was excellent.

Love the cozy atmosphere and friendly employees. We always go for drinks but end up staying to eat. On our last visit we split 3 appetizers- 2 orders of the mussels and 1 plate of lamb sliders. We asked for extra bread to soak up the delicious broth from the mussels; the bread is warm and has a slight charred taste that's delicious with the creamy mussel broth.

The patio in the rear of the restaurant is open during the warmer months and offers a nice quiet spot to enjoy drinks and/or dinner. The owners are on-site and always greet us, they're pleasant without being intrusive. We feel like we're in a private, "special" place at Bistro 71.