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 in New York that offers a constantly changing menu, creating a fresh experience on each visit. It has a relaxed yet lively atmosphere that makes it a fun spot for people-watching. The natural wine list and art-deco design add to its welcoming charm without feeling stuffy or over-the-top.
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, opened in 1986 by Chef Eric Ripert, is a renowned French seafood restaurant in New York. It’s known for its refined focus on fresh seafood and its welcoming, thoughtful service. The calm, classic atmosphere provides a notable fine-dining experience in the heart of the city.
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 is Chef Daniel Boulud’s Michelin-starred spot on the second floor of One Vanderbilt, right by Grand Central Station. Its airy bar and white-tableclothed dining room strike a lively, welcoming balance that feels both grown-up and fun. A fresh addition to Midtown, it’s well-suited for everything from a casual drink to an elegant evening 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 is a cozy spot in New York’s West Village that combines an old-world café feel with a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. It’s known for its straightforward approach to food and drink, served in a warm setting that includes a leafy garden and sidewalk tables. Guests can drop by at any time of day to enjoy a welcoming environment that encourages both lively gatherings and quiet moments.
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 bustling all-day brasserie in SoHo, open seven days a week. Its welcoming atmosphere and lively vibe have made it a local favorite for years. The classic brasserie feel and steady crowd reflect its timeless appeal without being overly formal.
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 in SoHo offers a relaxed French-inspired setting within the Roman and Williams Guild, striking a balance between timeless cooking and modern flair. It has a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere that feels just right for a casual stop or a more special event. Whether you drop by for a break from exploring the neighborhood or plan a thoughtful gathering, this spot keeps things inviting and down-to-earth.
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 longtime favorite in New York’s Meatpacking District, recently returning just a short distance from its original location. This casual French bistro offers a lively setting from morning to night, with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s also conveniently close to neighborhood spots like the High Line and Chelsea Market, making it easy to stop by before or after exploring the area.
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 tucked into a charming townhouse on the Upper East Side, offering a warm yet polished space. The focus is on light, inventive French-inspired cooking, along with a thoughtfully chosen wine list. It's a relaxed spot for those looking for an elegant meal without a lot of fuss.
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 lively spot in New York known for its French-inspired menu with a creative edge. Guests often praise its welcoming atmosphere and memorable food, making it an appealing place to relax and enjoy.
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 Japanese-French restaurant in New York that highlights creative, balanced flavors using refined techniques from both cuisines. From its inviting Brooklyn setting to its carefully considered tasting approach, it provides a relaxed environment where guests can explore light and energetic cooking.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman blends French flair with Viennese roots in a lively NoMad setting. Its inviting atmosphere and high-quality ingredients have earned it a warm spot on New York’s dining radar. Led by Chef Markus Glocker, this newcomer has already sparked buzz among locals and visitors alike.
Recommended by
Frenchette
241 W Broadway
241 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013, USA
Frenchette is a contemporary French bistro in New York that offers a constantly changing menu, creating a fresh experience on each visit. It has a relaxed yet lively atmosphere that makes it a fun spot for people-watching. The natural wine list and art-deco design add to its welcoming charm without feeling stuffy or over-the-top.
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, opened in 1986 by Chef Eric Ripert, is a renowned French seafood restaurant in New York. It’s known for its refined focus on fresh seafood and its welcoming, thoughtful service. The calm, classic atmosphere provides a notable fine-dining experience in the heart of the city.
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 is Chef Daniel Boulud’s Michelin-starred spot on the second floor of One Vanderbilt, right by Grand Central Station. Its airy bar and white-tableclothed dining room strike a lively, welcoming balance that feels both grown-up and fun. A fresh addition to Midtown, it’s well-suited for everything from a casual drink to an elegant evening 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 is a cozy spot in New York’s West Village that combines an old-world café feel with a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. It’s known for its straightforward approach to food and drink, served in a warm setting that includes a leafy garden and sidewalk tables. Guests can drop by at any time of day to enjoy a welcoming environment that encourages both lively gatherings and quiet moments.
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 bustling all-day brasserie in SoHo, open seven days a week. Its welcoming atmosphere and lively vibe have made it a local favorite for years. The classic brasserie feel and steady crowd reflect its timeless appeal without being overly formal.
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 in SoHo offers a relaxed French-inspired setting within the Roman and Williams Guild, striking a balance between timeless cooking and modern flair. It has a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere that feels just right for a casual stop or a more special event. Whether you drop by for a break from exploring the neighborhood or plan a thoughtful gathering, this spot keeps things inviting and down-to-earth.
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 longtime favorite in New York’s Meatpacking District, recently returning just a short distance from its original location. This casual French bistro offers a lively setting from morning to night, with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s also conveniently close to neighborhood spots like the High Line and Chelsea Market, making it easy to stop by before or after exploring the area.
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 tucked into a charming townhouse on the Upper East Side, offering a warm yet polished space. The focus is on light, inventive French-inspired cooking, along with a thoughtfully chosen wine list. It's a relaxed spot for those looking for an elegant meal without a lot of fuss.
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 lively spot in New York known for its French-inspired menu with a creative edge. Guests often praise its welcoming atmosphere and memorable food, making it an appealing place to relax and enjoy.
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 Japanese-French restaurant in New York that highlights creative, balanced flavors using refined techniques from both cuisines. From its inviting Brooklyn setting to its carefully considered tasting approach, it provides a relaxed environment where guests can explore light and energetic cooking.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman blends French flair with Viennese roots in a lively NoMad setting. Its inviting atmosphere and high-quality ingredients have earned it a warm spot on New York’s dining radar. Led by Chef Markus Glocker, this newcomer has already sparked buzz among locals and visitors alike.
Recommended by
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