Bistro 1245 - Gainesville

I can't get enough of this place. Their soups are to die for. Their sandwiches are some of the best I've had in Gainesville. The staff is attentive and friendly. The environment is peaceful and warm. I would come here every day for lunch if I had the choice to. The cost is lower than most places around so I would call it a good bargain.

Always amazing and quick service. Such a unique and incredibly priced menu. Such a small charm in Gainesville. The butternut squash soup is great!

One of my favorite lunch spots. I will be super sad when they close for the new development. Definitely one of the top 3 best lunch spots in Gainesville. Don’t miss the squash bisque which is heaven.

Bistro 1245 is an extraordinary value; amazing, unique, delicious food in a hip little space. You can’t go wrong here. We arrived at 7:30pm on a Monday night. The parking was ridiculous but was resolved after a bit. Upon entering the restaurant, we were seated immediately. The place was surprisingly busy given the day and hour. The service throughout the meal was consistently on point and friendly. There were three servers for the entire room – each helped every table. Wine by the glass was obscure but imaginative as well as reasonable at $7.95 a glass. Bottles of wine are display around the room for purchase if so desired. My husband started with the Butternut Squash Bisque which was exquisite. I had the special offering that night: Tomato Bisque. It was served warm with the just the right amount of crumbled cheddar, onion and bacon on top. Outstanding! Next came my husband’s Salad Nicoise – a generous portion of fresh seared tuna, baby greens, red onion, calamata olives, tomatoes and citrus vinaigrette he passed on the egg). He said it was delicious and thoroughly enjoyed it. For my main dish, I had an appetizer: Herbed Goat Cheese. It was served warm with crostini, candied walnuts and olives on a bed of greens. Lovely and just the small bite I wanted. My husband had the Roasted Eggplant panini which was served on farm bread with marinated red peppers, provolone and homemade pesto. He claimed it was the best sandwich he had ever eaten. Please note: Main entrees are served as well. We just happened to be seeking a smaller meal. From what I heard, their Bistro Steak $17.95) is excellent. Bistro 1245 is small, funky and urban – no frills or formality. Just great food. Foodies, take note.

Love this place! Food is always fresh and they use great ingredients. You get a lot of good quality food for the price. They have a decent selection and have food for dinner and lunch. Awesome sandwiches and amazing soups!