If you’ve even daydreamed about strolling into Van Gogh’s Terrasse de Café la Nuit, then consider dining at Aquitaine Bar à Vin Bistrot. This South End bistro’s feel is straight out of the postimpressionist’s masterpiece. Executive chef/owner Seth Woods’s menu offers authentic French fare from frîtes to brûlée, but his signature appetizer, mussels with Sancerre, shallots, and fresh thyme, merits multiple visits. These tasty and tender delights are unique because of Woods’s "secret" ingredient — a liaison of egg yolks and crème fraîche that slowly thickens the sauce, creating a silky, smooth base. The mollusks first soak in a medley of butter, shallots, thyme, and Sancerre. After the shells steam open, the yolk/crème fraîche combo is added, creating the flavor that makes the mussels fantastique.

Available for $9 at Aquitaine, 567 Tremont Street, in Boston. Call 617.424.8577.