15 best French restaurants in Schenectady New York
If you're in Schenectady, NY, and craving French cuisine, you're in luck! The city is home to several French restaurants that offer an authentic taste of France. From classic dishes like coq au vin and bouillabaisse to delectable pastries and wines, these French restaurants in Schenectady NY provide a dining experience that will transport you across the Atlantic.
- 1. Chez Nous
- 2. Blue Ribbon Restaurant & Bakery
- 3. Manhattan Exchange
- 4. Ambition Coffee & Eatery, Inc
- 5. Peter Pause Restaurant
- 6. The Nest
- 7. Newest Lunch
- 8. Katie O'Byrnes Restaurant
- 9. Off the Hook Fish Fry
- 10. Morrettes King Steakhouse
- 11. Moon and River Cafe
- 12. Casola Dining Room
- 13. Bountiful Bread
- 14. Rennnaisance Restaurant And Hall
- 15. Jollof Kitchen Halal
1. Chez Nous
Experience French culinary excellence in a cozy setting

The cocktails at this establishment are truly exceptional. They are crafted with care, using only the freshest ingredients and top-shelf liquors. The result is a selection of drinks that are both delicious and sophisticated. Whether you prefer a classic martini or something more adventurous, you are sure to find something to suit your taste.
In addition to the cocktails, the restaurant also offers a range of salads that are sure to impress. These are not your typical side salads – they are hearty and satisfying, packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful toppings. The iceberg lettuce is crisp and refreshing, while the tomato wedges, cucumber slices, and red onion add a burst of color and flavor. The real bacon bits add a nice crunch, and the dressing is served on the side, allowing you to customize the salad to your liking. Overall, the salad options are generous in size and full of flavor, making them a great choice for a light lunch or a hearty side dish.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Blue Ribbon Restaurant & Bakery
Homemade desserts and all-day breakfast

The reviewer expressed their delight towards the food and atmosphere of the diner. Every dish they tried was enjoyable, and they appreciated the classic diner ambiance. The service was commendable, with the waitstaff ensuring that food was delivered in a timely manner without making patrons feel rushed.
The reviewer's first experience at this establishment left a positive impression. The extensive menu, with its affordability, enticed the reviewer to take home leftovers. The dedication of the waitstaff and busboys was noticeable, contributing to the overall satisfactory experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Manhattan Exchange
Your neighborhood bar & grille with a unique twist.

The food at this establishment is consistently delicious, offering a variety of options for every palate. Beef, pork, chicken, and turkey entrees and appetizers are all well-represented on the menu. Chef Kris is particularly noteworthy for his expertly crafted dishes, such as the famous pork belly burger, Wisconsin burger, French onion soup, mashed potatoes, and hot wings.
Sandwiches are a standout feature of the menu, with generous portions and bold flavors. The Early Bird Chicken sandwich, Short Rib sandwich, and Grilled Chicken Sandwich are all highly recommended. To complement your meal, be sure to try the Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita, which features a spicy kick from jalapeño-infused tequila. This beverage is a crowd favorite and a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment. Overall, the food and drink offerings here are top-notch, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
4. Ambition Coffee & Eatery, Inc
Quaint eatery with vintage curios and creative fare.

Ambition Coffee & Eatery serves up delicious sandwiches in a unique setting filled with eye-catching kitsch. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with quirky decorations available for purchase, creates an enjoyable dining experience. Among the menu favorites, the fluffy and indulgent French toast stands out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Peter Pause Restaurant
A local favorite for over 60 years, serving homemade breakfast and Italian lunch.

This charming diner is a hidden gem that truly excels in delivering delicious omelettes. They are cooked to perfection, resulting in a savory and satisfying experience with each bite. Accompanying the omelettes is their exquisite homemade Italian bread toast, which adds an extra layer of delight to the meal.
Generous portion sizes and reasonable prices make this establishment an excellent choice for those looking for a filling and affordable meal. The staff is courteous and attentive, ensuring a pleasurable dining experience. Furthermore, their coffee is quite enjoyable, complementing the meal nicely and encouraging patrons to return for more.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. The Nest
Contemporary Southern food with a home-cooked feel

The wait times at this establishment can fluctuate significantly, with some patrons experiencing a wait of up to 40 minutes, while others are seated immediately. The busy wait staff may at times be unable to provide detailed answers to questions, as they are focused on ensuring that all guests are promptly served.
The cuisine at this restaurant is highly regarded, with numerous guests praising the impeccable quality, presentation, and southern-style menu offerings. Popular dishes include the Classic Breakfast, featuring fluffy pancakes and savory eggs, as well as the Short Rib, which is cooked to perfection and served with a rich, flavorful gravy. Additional standout dishes include the Old Bay Crab Dip, Fried Chicken, and Pork Belly Eggs Benedict, all of which showcase the restaurant's commitment to providing a unique and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. Newest Lunch
Classic diner fare with a nostalgic twist.

The establishment, known as NL, has been a longstanding favorite for many generations. It first opened its doors in 1927, and it wasn't long before it won over the hearts of local residents, including a young boy named Dad, who lived just two blocks away. From that day forward, NL became a regular haunt for Dad, who eventually introduced his own children and grandchildren to its delights.
Visitors to NL have the option of choosing from a variety of side dishes to accompany their meal, including French fries, macaroni salad, potato salad, or soup. For those who want to indulge a little more, onion rings are available for an additional charge. It's no surprise that this establishment has been able to win over the taste buds of four generations of one family, given the quality and variety of its offerings.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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8. Katie O'Byrnes Restaurant
A taste of Ireland with a French twist in Schenectady.

A recent lunch experience for a group of eight was met with excellent service and a varied menu. The waitress was friendly, attentive, and accommodating to the group's various preferences and dietary restrictions. The menu consisted primarily of appetizers and hot sandwiches, with sides of salad, coleslaw, or fries.
The food can be described as elevated pub fare, with generous portions and fresh ingredients. The salmon BLT and haddock sandwich received high praise for their delicious taste and quality. The service was also commendable, making for an enjoyable and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
9. Off the Hook Fish Fry
Fresh seafood delights in a cozy setting.

Off the Hook Fish Fry is a restaurant that stands out for its extensive selection of delectable fish dishes. Their commitment to serving top-notch seafood is evident in every meal they serve. The menu showcases an array of mouthwatering options, from classic fish and chips to more adventurous dishes featuring exotic seafood. The dishes are prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
Furthermore, Off the Hook Fish Fry is not just known for its delicious food, but also for its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's decor is clean and charming, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. The owner is courteous and hardworking, ensuring that every guest feels valued and appreciated. With its commitment to quality and hospitality, Off the Hook Fish Fry has established itself as a highly-recommended spot for anyone seeking delicious, homemade food in a welcoming and friendly environment. Diners are sure to leave with a full stomach and a smile on their face.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. Morrettes King Steakhouse
Savoring tradition since 1947!

Morretti's King Steakhouse is a long-standing establishment that has been serving delicious food for nearly a century. This family-friendly restaurant has built a reputation for its mouth-watering steak sandwiches, generous portion sizes, and affordable prices. The restaurant's nostalgic charm has made it a beloved institution in the community.
Years ago, the reviewer recalls visiting the Schenectady Airport with their father on Saturday mornings to watch planes take off. Afterwards, they would head to Morretti's for a delicious steak sandwich. Imagining that those same sandwiches are still being served today, the reviewer was pleasantly surprised to discover that the restaurant is still going strong and the steak sandwiches are just as good as they remember.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. Moon and River Cafe
Largest vegan menu in the world, live music daily.

The Moon and River Cafe is a charming establishment with an eclectic and cozy ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal. The friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure that every customer feels welcome and satisfied. One particular standout menu item is their apple pie, which boasts a light and flaky crust and the perfect level of sweetness. Vegetarians will be particularly pleased with the offering of light vegetarian fare, but the menu has something for everyone.
Moon and River Cafe is not just a coffeehouse; it's a community hub. The food is excellent, but it's the intangible atmosphere that truly sets this place apart. The customers and staff create a warm and inviting environment that makes you feel like you're part of something special. Whether you're a local or just passing through, stopping by the Moon and River Cafe is a must-do. Should the opportunity to return to Schenectady arise, this charming cafe is certainly worth a second visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. Casola Dining Room

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. Bountiful Bread
Fresh baked, scratch made soups, salads, sandwiches, breads and sweets

A customer recently tried the Pesto Chicken Sandwich and Tomato Pesto soup from a restaurant, resulting in mixed reviews. During one visit, they found both dishes to be enjoyable and satisfying. The flavors of the pesto chicken sandwich were praised, and the tomato pesto soup was described as delicious and comforting.
However, a subsequent visit did not meet the same high standards. The customer found that some items on the menu were unavailable, leading to disappointment. Additionally, the presentation of the sandwiches was criticized for being poorly assembled, affecting the overall dining experience. Despite these setbacks, the restaurant's staff continued to provide excellent service. The Tomato Pesto soup and Parmesan roll were still highly recommended, indicating that the establishment likely has other standout dishes to offer.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
14. Rennnaisance Restaurant And Hall

TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
15. Jollof Kitchen Halal

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots