The 24 best French restaurants in New York City
New York City is a foodie's paradise, and among its diverse culinary offerings are numerous French restaurants that bring a taste of France to the heart of the Big Apple. From classic bistros to upscale dining establishments, French restaurants in New York City offer a range of options for those seeking a taste of French cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for escargot, coq au vin, or a perfectly cooked steak frites, these restaurants have you covered. So, if you're looking to indulge in some French culinary delights, be sure to check out the many French restaurants in New York City.
- 1. Boucherie Union Square
- 2. Benoit New York
- 3. Le Rivage
- 4. Le Baratin
- 5. Balthazar
- 6. Le Bernardin
- 7. Buvette Gastrotheque
- 8. Le Coucou
- 9. Daniel
- 10. La Sirène
- 11. Le Parisien Bistrot
- 12. Chez Josephine
- 13. Bistro Les Amis
- 14. Dirty French
- 15. Chez Napoléon
- 16. La Ripaille
- 17. Endswell
- 18. La Grande Boucherie
- 19. Amelie UWS
- 20. Jean-Georges
- 21. Frenchette
- 22. Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery
- 23. Lucien
- 24. Le Pavillon
1. Boucherie Union Square
Butcher shop on-site, extensive wine list, happy hour specials
The food at this establishment is absolutely outstanding, with a focus on French cuisine. The steak is a must-try and the diverse menu offers many delicious options. The profiteroles are also a standout dessert. In addition to the food, the service is exceptional. Enrique provided outstanding customer service, making for a memorable dining experience.
The French onion soup and escargot are not to be missed. They are prepared to perfection and are bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic night out. The restaurant successfully highlights the best of French cuisine, leaving guests with a truly satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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2. Benoit New York
Live piano music, attentive service, charming decor
A classic is often characterized by perfection and attention to detail, and this is certainly true of the food and decor at this establishment. The wait staff were attentive and contributed to a cozy ambiance that enhanced the dining experience. However, the food served at this restaurant fell short of the mark. It was disappointingly bland and lacked the flavor and complexity one would expect for the prices charged.
Despite the impressive service and decor, the food was a major letdown. The flavors were dull and unremarkable, and the prices seemed unnecessary given the quality of the dishes. A classic is typically defined by its ability to deliver on all fronts, but in this case, the food failed to meet the high standards set by the rest of the dining experience. Overall, while the service and decor were commendable, the food was a major disappointment.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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3. Le Rivage
Located in the heart of Broadway Theater District, Chef's Table experience, extensive French wine list
The French Onion Soup Burger at this establishment is highly regarded for its juiciness and excellent bread. The unique combination of a funky and creamy cheese with caramelized onions has been praised by customers for its delicious taste. Many have noted the clean flavors and satisfying experience of eating this burger.
The restaurant as a whole has been given ratings of 3-3.5 out of 5 by its patrons. Some have criticized the prices for being a bit steep, but others have enjoyed various dishes on the menu. Along with the French Onion Soup Burger, standout menu items include lobster bisque, frog legs, and creme brulee. Both tourists and locals have found enjoyment in the dining experience provided by this establishment.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Gluten-Free
4. Le Baratin
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years
Le Burger Baratin offers delicious and generously sized burgers. The classic Le Burger Baratin is a standout, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Another popular choice is the cordon bleu, a satisfying and savory burger option.
The food at Le Burger Baratin is not only tasty but also authentic and hearty. Diners rave about the flavor and quality of dishes like steak frites, escargot, and creme brulee. These offerings are sure to satisfy and leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
5. Balthazar
Live music on weekends, Chef's tasting menu available
Balthazar, a New York restaurant, exudes a quintessential New York feel with exceptional service and attention to detail. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is attentive, friendly, and constantly refills drinks while checking on guests regularly. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, including excellent east coast oysters, escargots, steak au poivre, eggs Benedict, and French toast.
French charm permeates the restaurant, with all staff members being lovely and providing impeccable service. The food offerings are outstanding, with highlights such as eggs Benedict, French toast, and pastries. However, it's important to note that the prices are on the higher end. Overall, Balthazar is a great choice for those seeking a delicious and upscale dining experience in New York.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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6. Le Bernardin
Three-Michelin-star restaurant since 1986, personalized dining experience
The service provided was exceptional, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The Squid ink Risotto stood out with its delicious taste and eye-catching presentation. The shrimp appetizer and dessert were particularly noteworthy, adding delight to the lunch. The sea bass entrée was also impressive, equally matching the high-quality dishes of the meal.
In summary, the Squid ink Risotto, shrimp appetizer, dessert, and sea bass entrée were all memorable dishes. The service was exceptional, and the presentation of the food was visually appealing. Both the appetizer and dessert left a lasting impression, but the sea bass entrée was equally impressive and satisfying.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
7. Buvette Gastrotheque
Unique fusion of French and New American cuisine
The croque monsieur served in this establishment is superior to any I have tried in France, and my wife's Belgian waffle was a divine treat. This French breakfast place is definitely one of the best we have visited.
The ambiance of the place was warm and inviting, and the drinks offered were delightful. The croque monsieur and Belgian waffle were the standout items on the menu, but overall, the food and drink offerings were impressive. This establishment is a must-visit for fans of French breakfast fare.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
- Dinner
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8. Le Coucou
Located in SoHo, Chef-driven menu, Open kitchen design
Le Coucou is a restaurant located in New York City with a distinct interior featuring exposed brickwork and an open kitchen, giving it a trendy New York vibe. The menu offers a variety of French classics with subtle updates, providing a fresh take on traditional dishes.
The restaurant has received high ratings, with a 4.4 average score based on 860 reviews. The positive feedback highlights the delicious food, excellent service, and inviting atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to rate their experience and contribute to the restaurant's impressive review count.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
9. Daniel
Housed in a historic townhouse, renowned for its culinary expertise and sophisticated ambiance
The author describes a remarkable dining experience characterized by an incredible tasting menu and exceptional wine pairings. Each dish was skillfully prepared, offering unique bursts of flavor that left them wanting more. The atmosphere was enhanced by the attentive and knowledgeable staff who provided excellent service, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
The establishment is noted for its welcoming ambiance and friendly staff, creating a comfortable environment for patrons. The high-quality food and attention to detail were evident in every dish, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal. Furthermore, the stunning views and considerate service ensured a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
10. La Sirène
Live music on weekends, elegant decor, and knowledgeable staff
The service at the establishment is generally commendable, with many guests praising the attentiveness and kindness of the staff. However, there are a few reviews that mention slow service or less than ideal experiences.
The food offerings at this location are highly praised, with many guests complementing the quality, flavor, and authenticity of the dishes. Popular items that are often mentioned in reviews include steak, French onion soup, crepes filled with Chantilly cream and fruit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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11. Le Parisien Bistrot
Charming sidewalk café, weekly live music, extensive wine list
The small French Bistro has a warm and inviting ambiance, complete with fitting music and candles that create an authentic and elegant atmosphere. Guests enjoy the authenticity and sophistication of the setting. The service is notably excellent, with a waitress who is charming and even speaks French, adding to the Parisian experience.
The menu offers classic French dishes, starting with a delicious onion soup and a fresh spinach and goat cheese salad. The steak frites is a standout, with a perfectly charred exterior and cooked to a medium rare perfection, accompanied by crispy fries. The duck confit is another highlight, tender and falling off the bone. The dining experience is completed with a delightful creme brûlée, making for a little piece of Paris right in the heart of NYC.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Chez Josephine
Live music on weekends, Romantic ambiance, extensive wine list
The pianist at the Parisian bistro was incredibly skilled, but their performance was a bit too loud for the setting. The food offerings at the establishment are excellent, with standout dishes such as the inventive lobster cassoulet. It was a delight and I would not hesitate to order it again. Unfortunately, the coffee served was disappointing. It had a burnt taste, which was unexpected and not enjoyable.
This restaurant, a tribute to the legendary Josephine Baker, is designed to transport diners to a romantic and theatrical setting reminiscent of Montmartre in Paris. Located in the heart of New York City on 42nd Street, the bistro offers live music and a tantalizing menu that perfectly encapsulates the charm and allure of a classic Parisian night out. Despite the minor letdown of the burnt coffee, the overall experience was enjoyable and transportive.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. Bistro Les Amis
Live music on weekends, welcoming staff, charming decor
Bistro Les Amis is a restaurant worth visiting, as evidenced by my recent dining experience over Easter weekend. I was incredibly impressed with their onion soup, which was bursting with flavor. The staff, particularly the manager named Kala, were friendly, hospitable, and contributed significantly to my enjoyable experience.
The restaurant boasts a cozy and quaint atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal. The food serves are generous, of high quality, and delicious. Not only is the food delicious, but it is also served with a warm smile, enhancing the overall positive experience at Bistro Les Amis. I am already looking forward to my next visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
14. Dirty French
Elevated French cuisine with playful twists in a chic setting
The service and food at this establishment are absolutely delightful. The standout feature of the bar is their nightstand mezcal. Among the menu items that particularly impressed were the bone marrow and the truffle Mac and cheese. On the other hand, there were some issues with the pricing. The quality of the meat did not seem to justify its high price. Additionally, there was an unexpected charge for a bottle of sparkling wine. It is also worth noting that the appetizers are priced individually.
In summary, this establishment offers great service and delicious food, but there were some issues with the pricing. The standout items on the menu include the bone marrow and truffle Mac and cheese, as well as their unique nightstand mezcal. However, the cost of the meat was higher than expected and there was an additional charge for a bottle of sparkling wine. Furthermore, the appetizers are priced individually, which is something to be aware of.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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15. Chez Napoléon
Live French music on weekends, reservations recommended
Chez Napoléon is a French restaurant known for its excellent service. Guests consistently rave about the warm, courteous, friendly, fast, attentive, and accommodating staff. The service is described as exceptional and delightful, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
The restaurant also stands out for its authentic French atmosphere and menu. With artwork to discover and a relaxed and charming ambiance, dining at Chez Napoléon is like being transported to old-school France. The menu features delicious French dishes, making it a must-visit destination for fans of French cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
16. La Ripaille
Family-owned French bistro with authentic decor
La Ripaille offers a unique dining experience with its mixed and interesting food options. While some dishes have good flavor, there have been inconsistencies in quality and preparation. Regardless, the overall authenticity of the food shines through.
Visiting La Ripaille was an incredible experience. The interior exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a date night. The service was top-notch, with every server providing attentive and excellent service. Despite some issues with the food, the overall experience was still fantastic.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. Endswell
Housed in a historic Brooklyn building, Chef-driven menu
The atmosphere inside the business is intimate, helpful, and clean, creating a pleasant environment for customers. The space is kept clean and tidy, and good music plays, adding to the overall positive experience.
The service provided by the staff is outstanding, with each member being polite and attentive to customers' needs. They take extra steps to ensure customers are comfortable and enjoying themselves, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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18. La Grande Boucherie
Authentic French cuisine in the heart of New York
The service at the restaurant is consistently praised by reviewers for its friendliness, speed, and attentiveness. Many have noted a particular server who provided exceptional service and went above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience. The staff's gracious and welcoming demeanor has also been commented upon, contributing to a positive atmosphere.
The food at the restaurant is highly acclaimed, with reviewers using descriptors such as "fantastic," "flavorful," and "over-the-top good." The wine selection has also received positive feedback. However, a few reviewers have expressed disappointment with certain dishes, particularly the steak, which they found dull. Additionally, some have noted mediocre service during their visit. Overall, the restaurant has received positive reviews with a few areas that could be improved.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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19. Amelie UWS
Live jazz music on weekends, carefully curated wine list
Amelie Wine Bar is a delightful French restaurant located on the Upper West Side. It boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, with staff who go above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Amelie Wine Bar features classic French dishes with a modern twist. Standout menu items include the escargot, which is cooked to perfection, and the duck confit, which is tender and flavorful. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of wines, with options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're a wine aficionado or just looking to enjoy a glass with your meal, you're sure to find something you'll love at Amelie Wine Bar.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
20. Jean-Georges
Stunning views of Central Park, exquisite wine list, seasonal tasting menus
Jean-Georges Vongerichten's restaurant is renowned for its exquisitely crafted dishes that blend French, American, and Asian influences. The menu at Jean-Georges is driven by the local farmer's market, resulting in seasonal and ever-changing offerings. The food served at the restaurant is innovative and delicious, leaving a lasting impression on diners. A tasting menu is available, featuring 10 courses for omnivores and 6 courses for vegetarians, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to accommodating a range of dietary preferences.
Apart from the food, the bread served at Jean-Georges was a minor disappointment as it was not warm. However, the meal was enhanced by delightful extras, including small treats throughout the meal and a take-home almond cake at the end, which added a special touch to the dining experience. Overall, the food at Jean-Georges was truly exceptional, leaving a lasting impression on those who dine there.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- High-End
- Dinner
21. Frenchette
Live music on select nights, raw bar, outdoor seating
Frenchette, a restaurant located in Tribeca, is known for its delectable cocktails and rich, decadent dishes. On a recent Saturday evening, a not particularly busy prime time, the restaurant fell short of satisfying the writer's primary craving - Turbot, a favorite fish that is not commonly found on menus. Unfortunately, the restaurant had run out of it.
Despite the disappointment, Frenchette has consistently proven itself to be a standout establishment. Its goal appears to be to serve food so rich and indulgent that it makes patrons' eyes roll back in pure delight. While the restaurant failed to deliver on the writer's specific request on this particular occasion, its reputation for delivering a memorable dining experience remains unblemished.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
22. Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery
Charming French bistro with homemade bread and pastries
A few months ago, there was buzz in Barcelona about a local bakery selling the new trending pastry in NYC, a round croissant filled with pistachio. Intrigued, the writer's wife searched for the original "inventor" of this round pastry and came across Lafayette. However, the experience of getting the pastries was underwhelming. The writer and his wife had to wait in line for 20 minutes in the rain, and once inside, they were met with a dark venue that made it hard to see what they were ordering. The pistachio Suprême was good, but the other half was just a regular croissant.
In contrast, the writer's breakfast experience was much more positive. He and his companions ordered a basket of pastries, French omelets, lemon pancakes with fresh berries, and scrambled eggs with truffle. Everything was delicious, and the coffee was outstanding. Despite being a little pricey, the writer believed it was worth it for the quality of the food and the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
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23. Lucien
Live music on weekends, French-speaking staff, charming patio
The drinks at the establishment have received mixed reviews. Some guests have criticized them for being expensive and taking a long time to be served. However, others have complemented the taste of the drinks, indicating that they enjoyed them.
The ambiance of the establishment has also received mixed feedback. Some guests have raved about it, even going so far as to call it one of the best in New York City. However, others have found it to be too loud for their liking. Despite these differences in opinion, it is evident that the ambiance is generally considered to be pleasant.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
24. Le Pavillon
Located in the iconic One Vanderbilt building, Extensive wine list, Exquisite presentation
The author had an amazing experience at this establishment with its huge ceilings and cool bar area. The service was good, although not up to the standard of other DB establishments. However, the food was a highlight, with standout dishes including Oysters Vanderbilt, Lime Cured Striped Bass, Lamb Chops, and Lobster.
The restaurant is a high-quality dining experience, with an elegant dining room featuring soaring ceilings, plate glass, and a warm palette. The well-heeled are made to feel at home by the skilled preparation of contemporary, globally-influenced cuisine by chef Daniel Boulud and his team. The menu is dominated by seafood and vegetable-focused items, reflecting a commitment to fresh and seasonal ingredients.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots