New York
The Best French Restaurants in New York
Discover New York City's cozy neighborhood bistros and sophisticated brasseries.
From the busy streets of Manhattan to the trendy corners of Brooklyn, this guide highlights the best French restaurants in New York. Take in the contemporary bistro atmosphere at Frenchette, indulge in great French seafood at Le Bernardin, or immerse yourself in the luxurious setting at Le Pavillon. As with all World of Mouth listings, all recommendations are based on top food writers and chefs like Joshua David Stein, Gaggan Anand, and Will Guidara. So to help you navigate your way around the city, read on and discover where to find the best French food in New York.
Frenchette
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241 W Broadway
241 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013, USA
Frenchette is a contemporary French bistro known for its ever-evolving menu of rich dishes. The place, opened by Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson in 2018, is appreciated for its signature natural wine list curated by industry veteran, Jorge Riera, and European-inspired bistro classics. The restaurant also features an atmospheric art-deco design with separate spaces for the restaurant and bar, making it a popular spot for many.
Recommended by
I really like Frenchette in TriBeCa. It's like a home for me, with Jorge Riera and his team. Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson opened the place in 2018, and it’s still great.
Le Bernardin
155 W 51st St
155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA
Le Bernardin is a renowned French seafood restaurant, established in 1986, with Chef Eric Ripert at its helm. This three-star Michelin establishment offers a menu that combines French techniques with global influences, primarily focusing on seafood. Known for its superb dishes, extraordinary sauces, and excellent wine pairings, Le Bernardin provides a calm and lovely dining space that contrasts with the bustling streets outside.
Recommended by
One of the most celebrated fine-dining restaurants in NYC.This three-star Michelin restaurant offers a French and globally influenced menu with a focus on seafood. With Chef Eric Ripert at the helm for over two decades, the restaurant has become world-renowned for its exceptional hospitality and expertly executed dishes. If you're looking for an outstanding classic fine-dining experience in New York, Le Bernardin should be high up on your list.
Le Pavillon
One Vanderbilt Ave
One Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA
Le Pavillon, located near Grand Central Station, is the latest culinary venture by renowned chef Daniel Boulud. The restaurant has a strong focus on seafood and vegetable-forward dishes, utilizing the richness of Northeast fishermen and farmers to create an innovative menu. With its lively bar and elegant dining room, Le Pavillon offers a delightful atmosphere for both serious diners and those looking to enjoy a sophisticated night out.
Recommended by
Daniel Boulud's glorious new restaurant reimagines New York's most hallowed institutions.Daniel Boulud's second floor restaurant in the vertigo-inducing One Vanderbilt is a seafood-forward showcase of the master's fine dining technique. The "mer et terre" menu features tender scallops with cauliflowr (mer) and a wonderfully comforting roasted chicken (terre).
Buvette Gastrotheque
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Buvette Gastrotheque
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Buvette Gastrotheque is a part restaurant, part bar, part café, inspired by European traditions that honor a history of craft and design. The restaurant offers a short list of classic French dishes made from top-notch ingredients, including divine scrambled eggs for breakfast and dishes like tartare, coq au vin, and tartiflette for dinner. The ambiance of Buvette Gastrotheque is reminiscent of an old-world café, providing a casual neighborhood eatery experience, perfect for an early morning espresso, a long lunch of shared dishes, or a late-night digestif.
Recommended by
Bloody sensational. My favourite restaurant in New York. Quaint, familiar, pretty, considered and consistent - Buvette is the real deal. First up, go for breakfast and order their eggs, they're scrambled in a milk frother and are the most divine eggs you will ever try. Return for dinner and fall in love with the lights and romance of Grove St. You'll be treated to a short list of classic French dishes made using top notch ingredients. We had the tartare, coq au vin, and the most luscious tartiflette, along with a few little starters. I couldn't fault this place. It's everything I love and want in a restaurant. My only complaint is that I don't live nearby.
Balthazar
80 Spring St
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Balthazar is a renowned all-day brasserie serving traditional French cuisine seven days a week. Known for its bustling atmosphere and charming interiors, it offers a casual bistro menu with an American twist, including fresh seafood, shellfish, and pastries baked daily. With a reputation as an iconic institution in SoHo, it's advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity.
Recommended by
Iconic bistro of SoHoBaltazar has been my favourite in SoHo for almost 20 years, and in the full restaurant you may think everybody else thinks the same. It is always totally fully booked, A French bistro with an American twist, it is an extremely charming place. You can also sit outside but inside is the true charm of bubbling, almost noisy discussion. Famous for its oysters and typical French casual bistro menu. A classic institution - a must in SoHo. Book well in advance.
La Mercerie
53 Howard St
53 Howard St, New York, NY 10013, USA
La Mercerie is a French concept restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a delightful balance of classical and avant-garde practices in its cuisine. The restaurant, located within the Roman and Williams Guild, is known for its elegant and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal stopping point after a stroll through Soho. With a variety of dishes that range from oysters and champagne to bread with seaweed, La Mercerie offers a thoughtful reimagination of everyday French cooking.
Recommended by
Chic place to relax after and long walk through Soho.This place is elegant, inviting and delicious. French concept that serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great spot to have your Sunday breakfast, mimosas on the speed button. Oysters champagne, bread with seaweed and plenty more. It’s an ideal place for a stop by after a long walk through Soho.
Pastis
52 Gansevoort St
52 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Pastis is a beloved French bistro in the heart of the Meatpacking district, known for its fantastic food and incredible atmosphere. Open from breakfast to dinner, it's the perfect spot to start or end your exploration of nearby attractions like the High Line and Chelsea Market. Despite a brief closure, Pastis has made a triumphant return to the district, now located just 200 meters from its original spot.
Recommended by
Favourite iconic bistro of Meatpacking district. From breakfast to dinner.Pastis was the heart of Meatpacking district when the area was renewed early 2000’s. During Trump and Covid it closed its doors when the whole area became temporarily more silent. Last year, it fortunately reopened, just 200 meters from the original location. Fantastic French casual bistro that is always full. Great bistro food, but the point is the amazing atmosphere. Both outside and inside . The best place to start or end your walk in the High Line, Whitney, Chelsea market or the gallery district.
JoJo by Jean-Georges
160 E 64th St
160 E 64th St, New York, NY 10065, USA
JoJo by Jean-Georges is an elegant restaurant situated in a charming townhouse in the Upper East Side. The cuisine, crafted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is characterized by its light, innovative French style, and is complemented by a well-curated wine list. The restaurant offers dinner every day from 5pm to 9:30pm, and brunch on weekends from 12pm to 3pm.
Recommended by
Elegant and innovative, by Jean-Georges Vongerichten in an Upper East Side charming townhouseVery elegant and cool restaurant in a charming townhouse in the Upper East side. Vongerichten’s cuisine is light, innovative, French, very good. Nice wine list.
Claud
90 E 10th St
90 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Claud is a restaurant that specializes in French cuisine with a unique twist, offering an exciting and vibrant dining experience. They are particularly known for their standout Devil's Food cake. With every dish designed to surpass similar ones you've had before, Claud ensures an excellent overall experience, including a wide selection of wines and top-notch hospitality.
Recommended by
The most exciting new restaurant of 2022 - Claud.Somehow every dish is better than any similar dish you may have had in the past. The food is both captivating and exhilarating in a way that is truly rare. Excellent overall experience including wine and hospitality.
HOUSE Brooklyn
50 Norman Ave
50 Norman Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, USA
HOUSE Brooklyn is a restaurant that serves a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine, curated by owner and chef Yuji Tani. The menu offers a 9-course tasting experience priced at $180, with a specially curated drink menu of teas, sakes, and wines. Please note that reservations are required and can be made online, and the restaurant is unable to accommodate certain dietary restrictions.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman is a contemporary French-Viennese eatery where renowned Chef Markus Glocker skillfully combines Parisian creativity with Viennese tradition. The menu offers indulgent dishes such as cheese soufflé with cheddar and mushrooms, an incredible Schnitzel, and roasted duck. The restaurant's atmosphere is reminiscent of the lively buzz of Secessionist-era European cafes, making it a special addition to the dining scene.
Recommended by
Frenchette
241 W Broadway
241 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013, USA
Frenchette is a contemporary French bistro known for its ever-evolving menu of rich dishes. The place, opened by Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson in 2018, is appreciated for its signature natural wine list curated by industry veteran, Jorge Riera, and European-inspired bistro classics. The restaurant also features an atmospheric art-deco design with separate spaces for the restaurant and bar, making it a popular spot for many.
Recommended by
I really like Frenchette in TriBeCa. It's like a home for me, with Jorge Riera and his team. Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson opened the place in 2018, and it’s still great.
Le Bernardin
155 W 51st St
155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA
Le Bernardin is a renowned French seafood restaurant, established in 1986, with Chef Eric Ripert at its helm. This three-star Michelin establishment offers a menu that combines French techniques with global influences, primarily focusing on seafood. Known for its superb dishes, extraordinary sauces, and excellent wine pairings, Le Bernardin provides a calm and lovely dining space that contrasts with the bustling streets outside.
Recommended by
One of the most celebrated fine-dining restaurants in NYC.This three-star Michelin restaurant offers a French and globally influenced menu with a focus on seafood. With Chef Eric Ripert at the helm for over two decades, the restaurant has become world-renowned for its exceptional hospitality and expertly executed dishes. If you're looking for an outstanding classic fine-dining experience in New York, Le Bernardin should be high up on your list.
Le Pavillon
One Vanderbilt Ave
One Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA
Le Pavillon, located near Grand Central Station, is the latest culinary venture by renowned chef Daniel Boulud. The restaurant has a strong focus on seafood and vegetable-forward dishes, utilizing the richness of Northeast fishermen and farmers to create an innovative menu. With its lively bar and elegant dining room, Le Pavillon offers a delightful atmosphere for both serious diners and those looking to enjoy a sophisticated night out.
Recommended by
Daniel Boulud's glorious new restaurant reimagines New York's most hallowed institutions.Daniel Boulud's second floor restaurant in the vertigo-inducing One Vanderbilt is a seafood-forward showcase of the master's fine dining technique. The "mer et terre" menu features tender scallops with cauliflowr (mer) and a wonderfully comforting roasted chicken (terre).
Buvette Gastrotheque
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Buvette Gastrotheque is a part restaurant, part bar, part café, inspired by European traditions that honor a history of craft and design. The restaurant offers a short list of classic French dishes made from top-notch ingredients, including divine scrambled eggs for breakfast and dishes like tartare, coq au vin, and tartiflette for dinner. The ambiance of Buvette Gastrotheque is reminiscent of an old-world café, providing a casual neighborhood eatery experience, perfect for an early morning espresso, a long lunch of shared dishes, or a late-night digestif.
Recommended by
Bloody sensational. My favourite restaurant in New York. Quaint, familiar, pretty, considered and consistent - Buvette is the real deal. First up, go for breakfast and order their eggs, they're scrambled in a milk frother and are the most divine eggs you will ever try. Return for dinner and fall in love with the lights and romance of Grove St. You'll be treated to a short list of classic French dishes made using top notch ingredients. We had the tartare, coq au vin, and the most luscious tartiflette, along with a few little starters. I couldn't fault this place. It's everything I love and want in a restaurant. My only complaint is that I don't live nearby.
Buvette Gastrotheque
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St
At the corner of Bleecker, 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Balthazar
80 Spring St
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Balthazar is a renowned all-day brasserie serving traditional French cuisine seven days a week. Known for its bustling atmosphere and charming interiors, it offers a casual bistro menu with an American twist, including fresh seafood, shellfish, and pastries baked daily. With a reputation as an iconic institution in SoHo, it's advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity.
Recommended by
Iconic bistro of SoHoBaltazar has been my favourite in SoHo for almost 20 years, and in the full restaurant you may think everybody else thinks the same. It is always totally fully booked, A French bistro with an American twist, it is an extremely charming place. You can also sit outside but inside is the true charm of bubbling, almost noisy discussion. Famous for its oysters and typical French casual bistro menu. A classic institution - a must in SoHo. Book well in advance.
La Mercerie
53 Howard St
53 Howard St, New York, NY 10013, USA
La Mercerie is a French concept restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a delightful balance of classical and avant-garde practices in its cuisine. The restaurant, located within the Roman and Williams Guild, is known for its elegant and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal stopping point after a stroll through Soho. With a variety of dishes that range from oysters and champagne to bread with seaweed, La Mercerie offers a thoughtful reimagination of everyday French cooking.
Recommended by
Chic place to relax after and long walk through Soho.This place is elegant, inviting and delicious. French concept that serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great spot to have your Sunday breakfast, mimosas on the speed button. Oysters champagne, bread with seaweed and plenty more. It’s an ideal place for a stop by after a long walk through Soho.
Pastis
52 Gansevoort St
52 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Pastis is a beloved French bistro in the heart of the Meatpacking district, known for its fantastic food and incredible atmosphere. Open from breakfast to dinner, it's the perfect spot to start or end your exploration of nearby attractions like the High Line and Chelsea Market. Despite a brief closure, Pastis has made a triumphant return to the district, now located just 200 meters from its original spot.
Recommended by
Favourite iconic bistro of Meatpacking district. From breakfast to dinner.Pastis was the heart of Meatpacking district when the area was renewed early 2000’s. During Trump and Covid it closed its doors when the whole area became temporarily more silent. Last year, it fortunately reopened, just 200 meters from the original location. Fantastic French casual bistro that is always full. Great bistro food, but the point is the amazing atmosphere. Both outside and inside . The best place to start or end your walk in the High Line, Whitney, Chelsea market or the gallery district.
JoJo by Jean-Georges
160 E 64th St
160 E 64th St, New York, NY 10065, USA
JoJo by Jean-Georges is an elegant restaurant situated in a charming townhouse in the Upper East Side. The cuisine, crafted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is characterized by its light, innovative French style, and is complemented by a well-curated wine list. The restaurant offers dinner every day from 5pm to 9:30pm, and brunch on weekends from 12pm to 3pm.
Recommended by
Elegant and innovative, by Jean-Georges Vongerichten in an Upper East Side charming townhouseVery elegant and cool restaurant in a charming townhouse in the Upper East side. Vongerichten’s cuisine is light, innovative, French, very good. Nice wine list.
Claud
90 E 10th St
90 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Claud is a restaurant that specializes in French cuisine with a unique twist, offering an exciting and vibrant dining experience. They are particularly known for their standout Devil's Food cake. With every dish designed to surpass similar ones you've had before, Claud ensures an excellent overall experience, including a wide selection of wines and top-notch hospitality.
Recommended by
The most exciting new restaurant of 2022 - Claud.Somehow every dish is better than any similar dish you may have had in the past. The food is both captivating and exhilarating in a way that is truly rare. Excellent overall experience including wine and hospitality.
HOUSE Brooklyn
50 Norman Ave
50 Norman Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, USA
HOUSE Brooklyn is a restaurant that serves a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine, curated by owner and chef Yuji Tani. The menu offers a 9-course tasting experience priced at $180, with a specially curated drink menu of teas, sakes, and wines. Please note that reservations are required and can be made online, and the restaurant is unable to accommodate certain dietary restrictions.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman is a contemporary French-Viennese eatery where renowned Chef Markus Glocker skillfully combines Parisian creativity with Viennese tradition. The menu offers indulgent dishes such as cheese soufflé with cheddar and mushrooms, an incredible Schnitzel, and roasted duck. The restaurant's atmosphere is reminiscent of the lively buzz of Secessionist-era European cafes, making it a special addition to the dining scene.
Recommended by
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