Buena Vista Bistro Neighborhood Gems | Buena Vista, Miami

Last month, Tasting Table asked readers for their favorite neighborhood gems. Now we're introducing the winning picks.

French chef Claude Postel has welcomed diners to Buena Vista Bistro from morning to midnight since 2008.

You'll be greeted by friendly servers at the bistro–lithe, Audrey Hepburn-esque young women and men in tight black t-shirts that show off their tattoos. They'll seat you at one of the charming tables covered in red-and-white oilcloth inside or at one of the plentiful sidewalk seats.

There's plenty of outdoor seating for café society.

Listen carefully when the servers list specials like bronzed, crackling-skinned duck confit ($17). If it's lunchtime, ask about the $10 prix fixe menu.

Surprisingly, one of the best dishes at Buena Vista Bistro isn't particularly French: As a nod to his Miami clientele, Postel put chicken curry with basmati rice ($12) on the menu. The orange sauce doesn't scorch, but it's an intoxicating stew of curry spices, chicken, squash, onions and diced apples.

Chicken curry with basmati rice

For dessert, go the classic route with old-school Crêpes Suzette ($12), the eggy folds doused in a heady butter, sugar and Grand Marnier sauce.

You may want to head next door to Postel's new Buena Vista Chocolate & Wine for dessert to go. An unlikely but winning combination: chocolates filled with that same redolent curry, tricked out into ganache form ($1.50), and a bottle of 2011 Louis Max Domaine De La Lyre Côtes du Rhône ($12.50).

Consider it a Buena Vista twofer.

Our Other Favorite Buena Vista Neighborhood Gems: Lemoni Café, The Embassy, Fiorito, Shokudo