Experience modern American Asian cuisine at Bijou in Melville. 

I have been eyeing Bijou for a minute, and when I heard we were going to celebrate my god sister’s graduation there, I instantly got excited! This place was on my list because they have so many different sushi rolls. When we arrived, the whole party wasn’t there yet, so we waited in this courtyard-looking area. It was around 8 p.m., so the weather was just right. The outside seating is decorated with lights, flowers, and bushes for privacy. The lights brought the whole concept to life. Bijou has a really pleasant vibe inside and out. Bijou also turns into a nightclub after hours. The live DJ playing music while we waited for our food was a nice touch.  

We came as a party of 10, and they had a long table reserved for us. It was a change compared to the round tables we usually get. Everything on the menu sounded good, so I leaned over to my boyfriend and said “I want everything!” He laughed at me but felt the same way. The Lychee Blossom Martini was a hit at our table. All of the ladies ordered it. Family style was the way to go for the appetizers, being that we were all open to sharing and wanted to try as much as possible.  

We ordered the Rock Roll, Lobster Roll, Spicy Girl, and No. 9 Roll as our sushi appetizers. Let me tell you, they were all so good! I’m drooling thinking about it right now. As far as presentation, the Lobster Roll had it all the way. The pieces of the roll were lined up as if it was the lobster’s body, with the head and tail on each side of it. It was really cool to see, and the taste completely matched the presentation. Other appetizers ordered were the crispy fried calamari and rock shrimp.  

I was so stuck on the sushi, I barely had any, but the table raved about them. For my entrée, I had the Chilean sea bass. It was presented beautifully, but it tasted a bit bland. My boyfriend and the lovely graduate had the wagyu filet mignon. I asked for a piece of the steak because it was cooked to perfection. The truffle butter complemented it so well. For sides, which we also shared, we got char-grilled broccolini, smashed potatoes, and shrimp fried rice. I can say we all left full and happy! 

I didn’t think an experience like this could get better, but it did! The owner of the restaurant, Anthony Scotto, constantly gives back to charities and supports those who are less fortunate. He hosts a Toys for Tots event every year and donates a portion of the restaurant’s revenue to local Long Island charities. The donations so far exceed $300,000, according to his website. Knowing that I’m getting excellent service and that my money is going to good use makes me feel content supporting that business. Also, knowing that I don’t have to do anything extra for part of my money to go towards a good cause is an added plus. This was definitely one for the books, as my family had a blast. Bijou even shared one of my sushi pictures on their Instagram. I will absolutely be returning to Bijou, and if you haven’t yet, give them a try!