Though it's nestled far from the sounds and lights of the city, Bonne Terre is no more than 30 minutes from just about any point in Memphis. Two dinners convinced us that the restaurant would be worth the drive if it were twice as far. The complex of three charming white buildings, constructed in classic Southern country fashion and connected by porches and trellised walks, sits on a slight rise at the end of a curving gravel drive.
Several ponds dot the property, and trees soar above the buildings.
The restaurant is decorated in simple French country fashion without being pretentious. The chairs are comfortable, tables are ample enough that diners shouldn't feel crowded, and the entire enterprise exudes hominess and serenity. We were not surprised at these circumstances and qualities, because Bonne Terre runs under the guidance of Michel Leny, owner of Cafe Society, former partner in Bistro 122, and a man who knows how to put a restaurant through its paces and make patrons feel well cared for. The menu at Bonne Terre changes every three weeks, typically listing three appetizers, four soup or salad items, four entrees and three desserts with several off-menu entrees offered every night. Other than that factor, the food was well-prepared and enjoyable.