L'ardoise Bistro Gift Certificate SCENE: Located on a quiet residential block of Noe Street in the Castro, this warm neighborhood bistro (the name means "chalkboard" in French) lures locals with its cozy, convivial dining room and menu of French favorites. EATS: Chef-owner Thierry Clement (formerly of Fringale) presents classics--coq au vin, hangar steak with frites, beet salad and crème brûlée--at prices that make it possible to return weekly. Simply presented, well-executed dishes (along with a handful of daily specials) are complemented by an approachable wine list--sit at the bar if you want to watch the action in the kitchen.