Top 12 French restaurants in Midtown NYC
Midtown NYC is a haven for food lovers, and French cuisine has a significant presence there. "French restaurants in Midtown NYC" offer a wide range of menus, from classic coq au vin to contemporary twists on traditional dishes. These restaurants provide not only exquisite taste but also an authentic French dining experience, making them a must-visit for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to catch up with friends, "French restaurants in Midtown NYC" cater to all occasions, showcasing the best of French culinary art in the heart of New York City.
1. Deux Amis
Intimate French dining experience in Midtown Manhattan.

Nestled on a tranquil side street, this establishment offers a soothing atmosphere that immediately puts patrons at ease. The Vol au Vent, in particular, has garnered high praise for its exquisite taste. The foie gras is a must-try, though its richness makes it a suitable dish to share among two or more people.
With a classic and cozy ambiance reminiscent of a Parisian bistro, the restaurant offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere that guests rave about. Patrons can enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the peaceful surroundings and comfortable atmosphere. The establishment has perfected the art of creating a dining experience that is both elegant and comfortable.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
2. Benoit New York
A taste of Paris in the heart of Manhattan.

A serene journey through traditional French cuisine is offered at this establishment. Every dish that was ordered was well-prepared and highly appreciated. The meal began with a charcuterie tasting plate, which was excellent and included various meats, pates, lentils, potatoes, and cornichons.
Benoit has earned its reputation as one of Manhattan's most iconic French restaurants, thanks to its successful fusion of French traditions with contemporary culinary artistry. The menu boasts classic French dishes such as pâté en croûte, escargots, and quenelles, which are all delicious and beautifully presented.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
3. La Bonne Soupe
Classic French bistro with no fuss, just great food.

The French onion soup at this establishment is often praised for its delicious taste, although there are some reviews that find it merely satisfactory. The menu has evolved over the years, but the fondue options, both meat and cheese, continue to be well-received by patrons.
A recent dining experience featured delectable French onion soup, escargot, and mussels, all receiving high marks for taste and presentation. The cozy and friendly atmosphere made diners feel as if they were in a Parisian bistro. The service, specifically from a waitress named Maria, was exceptional, leading to a positive overall experience and a desire to return in the future.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Quality Bistro
Contemporary French brasserie in Midtown Manhattan

Quality Bistro, a French restaurant located in Midtown, stands out for its excellent service and delicious food. Of particular note is their onion soup, which is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant's opulent decor, with its gold detailing reminiscent of Versailles' Salon of Venus, might suggest a stiff and formal atmosphere. However, this couldn't be further from the truth.
Despite the extensive 400-bottle French wine list and the four unique styles of filet mignon, Quality Bistro has a relaxed and enjoyable ambiance. It's a place where you can easily indulge in dessert after a satisfying meal, making for a perfect dining experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening out, a business dinner, or simply a place to enjoy some of the best French cuisine in Midtown, Quality Bistro is a superb choice.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
5. Bistro Vendôme
A quaint European bistro in the heart of NYC.

This charming French bistro offers an authentic and cozy dining experience, serving up classic French dishes with finesse. The fish soup is a standout, bursting with flavor, while the beet carpaccio with goat cheese is a delightful combination of earthy and tangy flavors. The escargot is cooked to perfection, making it a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic French cuisine. The dessert menu does not disappoint, with the apple tart being a particular highlight, reminiscent of the delicious pastries found in Parisian patisseries.
During a recent visit, this reviewer found the food to be uniformly delicious, with many other intriguing options left to explore on future visits. The service was exceptional, with staff providing attentive and friendly service throughout the meal. From the charming ambiance to the high-quality food and drink, this bistro is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a taste of France in their dining experience. Fans of French cuisine will not be disappointed.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Celebrations
- High-End
- Dinner
6. Le Bernardin
Michelin 3-star French seafood excellence.

The fish and white wine pairing we had the pleasure of experiencing was nothing short of magnificent. The establishment presented a refined and comfortable atmosphere, with a knowledgeable sommelier who made excellent wine recommendations. The French white wine in particular was a standout, and its pairing with the seafood dishes amplified the flavors in a truly memorable way.
The service, food, and pairings all came together to create a wow factor that has earned this experience a spot in the top 5 of my all-time favorites. The food was expertly prepared and beautifully presented, while the service was attentive and friendly. However, it was the combination of all three elements - the food, service, and exceptional wine pairings - that truly made the experience unforgettable.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
7. Del Frisco's Grille in Midtown
Modern American grill with a stylish twist.

Steak is a highly favored dish at the restaurant, frequently prepared to desired doneness and well-seasoned, as attested by many reviewers. A select few, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with their steak, citing it as overly salty or undercooked in the center.
The restaurant's drink selection has been met with widespread approval, with sangria and cabernet sauvignon identified as standouts. Patrons have praised the quality of the drinks, noting their great taste and the efficient service of the staff in replacing drinks, should the need arise.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
8. Gabriel Kreuther in Midtown
Michelin-starred French dining in the heart of NYC

Nestled at the base of the Grace building is a modern dining room, offering a distinctive and contemporary atmosphere that is fitting for special celebrations. The menu showcases global inspirations with a creative twist, resulting in unique and delicious dishes.
Standout menu items include the lobster and bison tartare, as well as the carbonara with the option to add black truffles. The tasting menu is an excellent choice, offering a variety of flavors and showcasing the chef's expertise. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring a wide range of options to complement any dish. Overall, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience with its exceptional food and drink options in a modern and sophisticated setting.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
9. Le Jardinier
Refined French cuisine in a serene, plant-filled setting

Le Jardinier is a restaurant known for its exceptional food and commendable service. Upon being seated, guests are treated to a palate cleanser and fresh house bread, setting the stage for the delicious meal to come. Although vegetarian entrée options may be limited, the flavors of the dishes more than make up for it, resulting in a highly recommendable dining experience.
The atmosphere of Le Jardinier is yet another aspect that contributes to its appeal. Greenery is used to decorate the space, providing a fresh and inviting ambiance. While it should be noted that the plants are artificial, the overall effect is still quite pleasing to the eye. Standout menu items include grilled octopus, scallops, chicken, and halibut, all of which have been lauded for their exquisite taste and presentation.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
10. La Grenouille
Timeless elegance with exquisite floral arrangements.

La Grenouille's dining room is a lively and exciting space, filled with vibrant floral arrangements and an abundance of mirrors in the restrooms. The upscale restaurant has a strict dress code, requiring jackets, so it's recommended to dress appropriately for the elegant atmosphere.
This renowned establishment, which has been in operation since 1962, is a shining example of classic French cuisine presented in a glamorous and timeless setting. The restaurant's garden of visual and culinary delights is complemented by the lively sounds of live jazz music. La Grenouille's reputation for elegance and intimacy makes it a top destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
11. Le Pavillon
A culinary oasis in the heart of Midtown

A wonderful experience was had at this establishment. The space is striking, featuring high ceilings and a trendy bar area. The service was commendable, if not quite up to the exceptional standards of other DB restaurants, but still very good. The food offerings were exceptional. Dishes such as Oysters Vanderbilt, Lime Cured Striped Bass, Lamb Chops, and Lobster were all standouts.
Le Pavillon can be found in one of the city's newest architectural marvels. The refined dining room boasts impressive ceilings, expansive plate glass windows, and a soothing color scheme, creating an atmosphere of warmth and luxury. Under the expert guidance of Chef Daniel Boulud and his accomplished team including Chefs Michael Balboni and Will Nacev, the menu showcases contemporary cuisine with global influences, predominantly featuring seafood and vegetable-centric options.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
12. 69 El Delicioso Food Truck

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch