When you visit Bistro By The River in Tellico Plains, you are likely to be greeted by restaurant director, Carlos Luengas.

Luengas, who came to the Bistro in September 2005, brings with him a wealth of knowledge from many fine restaurants and hotels around the world. Florida, Arizona, Washington D.C., Wisconsin, Mexico, Guatemala, and all of the islands in the Caribbean are just a few of the many places Luengas, a native of Columbia, has worked as either a chef or a restaurant manager. This worldly experience will only further enhance the Bistro’s reputation for quality and bring even more class and charm to an already exceptional restaurant.

 “I have a friend who lives in the Tellico Plains area and I have visited him about 3 times in 12 years,” said Luengas. “The last time I visited, we had lunch at the Bistro and I found out Tom [Cormier] was looking for someone to manage the restaurant. I talked to him and it worked out for both of us.”

 Bistro By The River is a casually upscale restaurant offering delightfully delicious entrees. Diners will enjoy the serene splendor of the Tellico River and Unaka Mountains as a backdrop to their table. Regular live music performances make an evening at the Bistro even more enjoyable.

 “The Bistro has a very nice atmosphere,” said Luengas. “It has all the ingredients of fine-quality restaurant and people won’t mind driving a bit to get here. I will continue the tradition of excellence and further enhance the ambience here.”

 Whether you are dressed casually or decked out for a special evening, you will feel right at home at the Bistro By The River. The decor is understatedly elegant yet decidedly unassuming. It serves equally well as host to couples looking for a little quiet time, family groups, and even single diners.

 The menu at the Bistro is diverse with something for everyone. Choice Angus beef, delectable seafood, top-quality pork and poultry and even vegetarian fare are just a few of the choices. Enjoy your meal with a variety of wine and other libations.

 “We have a strong consistent menu and many seasonal specials,” said Luengas, “and our focus is on satisfying our customers.”

 Bistro By The River offers an intimate dining experience with limited seating. Reservations are advisable, and they are always appreciated especially for groups of six or more. They can also accommodate your needs for business meetings, weddings, car clubs, and other large gatherings.

 They can seat up to thirty guests in Cherokee Corner, their private dining room. For larger gatherings, they offer three covered alfresco settings close to the refreshing sights and sounds of the Tellico River.

 Below the Bistro, Lodgepole Pavilion and Gardenia Gazebo can help make your wedding, birthday celebration, family gathering, company picnic or civic meeting a memorable occasion.

 There are many changes taking place at the Bistro, including the addition of the Cascades Riverside Grille in the outdoor lower level. There will soon be an amphitheater for outdoor entertainment, concerts and activities. They are also building a farmers market area with covered stalls so talented local growers can have a central place to sell their produce. 

 “Tellico Plains is such a beautiful place,” Luengas said. “The people here are truly friendly and that’s sometimes hard to find in a big metropolis. Here you can come and forget about your day-to-day worries. Someone will always have time to greet you and ask ‘how are you?’”

 

Hours for Bistro By The River are Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Cascades Riverside Grill is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Bistro is located at 1641 Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains. Phone: 423-253-7800. Email: Bistrobytheriver@tds.net.