Bites Nearby: Cafe Routier

The work week is over and the weekend is here! The last place you want to be tonight is the kitchen. Let’s eat out!

Restaurant name: Café Routier

Address: 1353 Boston Post Road, Westbrook

Phone number: 860-399-8700; www.caferoutier.com

Cuisine: French with touches from other cultures

Price range: $6 to $32

Take out:  Most dishes on the menu are available for take-out, but make time to enjoy the total dining experience at the restaurant.                   

Kid-friendly:  Young children won’t find chicken tenders, pizza or even a kids’ menu. When our kids were younger, they loved the housemade fries and the chance to eat duck. 

Why you should go right now: There are lots of ways to eat at Routier. The regional and seasonal menus change four times a year, while the “specialties” menu lists signature dishes and customer favorites. Right now, the Alsatian menu offers choices such as escargot cassoulette, choucroute garni au canard and a slow-simmered lamb shank.  Although comfort and service are hallmarks of the dining room, the Mood Lounge offers an even more casual experience. Go with a group to be able to sample lots of the bar menu’s tapas and small plates, including mini Kobe burgers, melted Fontina fonduta and olive oil-cured tuna.