Above: Welcome to XO Bistro where the apropos slogan reads “Indulge Yourself.”
Below: Creative nightly specials at XO Bistro might include cooked-to-order filet mignon with mashed potatoes or scallops served with couscous.
Flamboyan Resort is pleased to recommend XO Bistro as a longtime favorite destination for lunch, dinner, and happy hour.
The slogan on the entry sign reads. “Indulge Yourself,” but many locals consider wining, dining, and socializing at XO an absolute necessity. If you are looking for an upbeat spot to meet with friends — or make new ones — this is the place.
Proprietor, Cindy Gallant, has been an integral member of this welcoming enterprise for more than two decades. After working for the previous owners, Cindy purchased the restaurant 16 years ago.
With self-deprecating humor, she recalled looking forward to spending her first day as an entrepreneur — greeting patrons and sipping champagne. Unfortunately, she found herself short-staffed.
“I spent the entire day cooking in the kitchen.” With a grin, she added, “Life has pretty much continued along that way since then.”
From the very start XO has offered three specialty appetizer items: Spinach And Artichoke Dip topped with parmesan cheese and served in a toasted bread bowl; Shrimp Scargot cooked in white wine, garlic and butter topped with toasted goat cheese served with crostini; and Baked Brie wrapped in puff pastry, served with crostini, apples, Craisins, and raspberry preserves.
“We’ve added a few tasty touches but essentially these items have always been our staples,” said Cindy.
In 2008, the restaurant underwent a major renovation and expansion. More recently, when the pandemic forced a temporary shut-down in March of 2020, Cindy and her dedicated team took advantage of the situation to completely redecorate.
“The staff selected everything, from our color combos to the lighting and decor,” she said. “They came to work every day. I taught them how to cut tiles and they did a great job. They built shadowboxes, everything you see.”
Added Cindy, “I’ve got to give props to our chefs in the kitchen. They rock it every day.”
She also gave high praise to local fishermen who keep the restaurant supplied with fresh fish.
Produce is also locally sourced at XO. “Sugar Brown Farms supplies our greens. They are always flavorful and beautiful,” said Cindy.
At XO Bistro, “Daily Happy Hour” really is an all-day-long event from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. with special prices on select beer, wine and cocktails. How great is that?!
Open every day for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., XO Bistro is on the first level of Red Hook Plaza, across from American Yacht Harbor.
Click HERE to view on Google Maps.
For more information, visit xobistro.net or call 340-779-2069.
Top left: The friendly staff at XO Bistro includes Danielle Sauceda, Emily Romer, Denise St. Lawrence, Dakerlie Mauvais, and Sierra Mendoza.
Bottom left: Check out the many intriguing vino options on the blackboard at XO Bistro.
Top of Page: A sure sign of great things to come lights up the night outside XO Bistro in Red Hook.
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