What comes to mind when you imagine or visualize yourself eating French food? Do you picture some exotic food like frog legs or cooked snails? Or a dish with a more complicated name than the taste itself. While it may look like it, there is more to French food than meets the eye.
Every country has contributed to reshaping the world. The French contributed with food. Believe it or not, France was the first country where the restaurant business originated in 1765. The word ‘restaurant’ is of French origin and is taken from the phrase ‘restaurer. ‘ Only a few years later, in 1782, France became the epicenter of fine dining and modern cooking. Since then, other parts of the world have adopted the French style, resulting in new dishes and contemporary fine dining experiences.
What makes French food different, however, is the integration of sauces. French dishes highly depend on sauces to make them taste great. Some of the most popular sauces include béarnaise, hollandaise, and béchamel. Moreover, wine is a vital ingredient in French cuisine, either paired up or served as a beverage. All in all, tasting French cuisine is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you need to savor.
If you’re looking for French eateries in N.Y.C., you’re in for a treat. After compiling the lists of the best Italian restaurants NYC. and the city’s best Mexican restaurants, we’ll now cover the best french restaurants nyc worth visiting. From restaurants to brasseries, this list will help you get the best French dining experience in the Big Apple.
15 Best French Restaurants NYC that are Worth it
1. Le French Diner
Le French Diner is one of the best restaurants in N.Y.C. This small French eatery (three tables and ten stools) serves authentic bistro cuisine in New York. It’s even rumored that an N.Y. Post food critic frequents this small eatery regularly but never writes an article about it. That is praiseworthy in itself.
Le French Diner’s menu features a variety of dishes made with premium-quality ingredients. Some famous ones it serves include Escargots (cooked snails), Steak Tartare, and Grilled Squid. However, you may have to wait long before tasting any dish here. Currently, the restaurant only serves walk-in customers. So, consider arriving early to avoid the rush or embarrassment of waiting.
2. Frenchette
French restaurants and romance go hand in hand, so much so that it has become more of a stereotype than a fact. Nevertheless, French restaurants do serve as the best romantic getaway.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot to host your date, reserve your table at Frenchette. The food here is rich and decadent, and it’s worth the trip to the Tribeca area.
However, you won’t see the classics prepared like traditional French cuisine. Instead, each dish is prepared to ensure the flavors don’t stagnate. That’s the mindset of owners Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr. They wanted the guests to experience something new rather than get the same bistro classics they could find elsewhere.
Frenchette updates its menu daily to ensure freshness and uniqueness. However, you don’t have to worry because every dish served is made to perfection. If you do get the chance to dine, order from their ‘Amuse’ portion with every meal. If available on the menu, consider ordering Gnocchi Parisienne, Brouillade, or Duck Frites.
3. Raoul’s
Established in 1975, Raoul’s has been a classic Soho spot for the locals. Once you step in, you’ll be met with a warm buzz and exotic aroma of authentic French dishes. The walls are decorated with paintings and are well-lit, giving it a look of a classy joint.
This food joint is famous for Burger Au Poivre, a must-try. This burger is unlike those N.Y.C. burgers you buy from fast food outlets. It contains a juicy patty topped with crunchy peppercorns, watercress, red onions, and Saint André cheese.
It comes with thin, crispy fries, which you can enjoy with a side of Au Poivre Sauce to dip in. If burgers aren’t available, you can always enjoy the Steak Naturel Au Poivre, a juicy steak with the same sauce.
4. Libertine
Libertine is as much French as an N.Y.C. restaurant can get. Dubbed one of the best French restaurants NYC., Libertine is a place you must experience once if you genuinely want to brag about fine dining.
Everything is flown in from France to give the place an authentic French look, from the chairs to dishware to even the art deco. With the day’s menu chalkboard on the side, Libertine ensures you get good value for your money. Besides the ambiance, the food served makes it worth the visit.
Some tasty dishes include Duck Deux Façons, Oeufs Mayo, and Lobster Choi Farci. While French cuisine is somewhat affordable compared to other eateries, the food you try here is worth the price and wait. It’s a great place to celebrate special occasions and parties.
5. Le Rock
If you’re near Rockefeller Center, check into Le Rock, a French restaurant. Brought to you by the same people who run Frenchette, it’s their second brasserie.
While it does have a downtown Bistro feel, the vibe and the people complement it, making it a great place to tantalize your tastebuds. But the ambiance isn’t the only praiseworthy thing; the food is top-of-the-line, especially their meat dishes.
If you do visit, be sure to order their succulent Bison Au Poivre. It is made with the finest bison meat cuts, slow-cooked, and smothered with creamy peppercorn sauce. It is served with a side of golden crisp fries.
If you’re not a fan of red meat, you can order Duck Aux Éspices, cooked duck breast coated with various spices.
If you like spices, you can enjoy the vibrant food scene in some of N.Y.C.’s best Spanish restaurants.
6. Le Gratin
If you’re into fine dining, you may know Daniel Boulud. The famous French chef enjoys celebrity status among his peers.
Among his creations, the one closest to his heart is his restaurant, Le Gratin, in the Beekman Hotel. The place takes inspiration from Bistros, where the chef grew up, serving dishes that, although exotic, have a savory taste.
If you have a reservation, try the Lyonnaise specialty, which includes salad, crispy pork belly, and chicken liver salad topped with chicken jus instead of dressing. Moreover, you can try Escargot et Pied De Cochon Croustillants, which made Le Gratin what it is today.
Escargots are prepared in a completely different manner. Rather than cooking the snails, they are fried in tempura batter. Then, these snails are arranged on a plate alongside pig trotter croquettes. All that is placed on a garlic and spinach purée bed with sautéed mushrooms. This unique dish is the best thing on the menu, so if it’s your first time and you feel daring, it’s recommended.
7. Buvette
We’ve mentioned the best French restaurants NYC. worth visiting around dinnertime, but what about lunch and breakfast? Indeed, there must be a place to enjoy a hearty French brunch while soaking in the morning N.Y.C. sunshine. You can visit Buvette if you want to have a French breakfast.
Do ensure to order Saumon Fume and Croque Madame. The former is made with steamed eggs topped with smoked salmon or prosciutto, and the latter is a sandwich made with ham, cheese, sage, and prosciutto.
Although Buvette is home to some fantastic French dishes, there is a catch. The space may seem congested, but that doesn’t stop fans from being eager to taste authentic French breakfast.
If you like bold flavors, check out the N.Y.C. Greek restaurants that offer bold, natural flavors.
8. Le Crocodile
Le Crocodile feels like a cozy French bistro in the body of a grand hotel. Located in the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, this restaurant stands out as one of the best French restaurants NYC. Its ambiance offers a mix of Parisian wine bar vibes and the boasting of a hotel eatery with high ceilings and marble bars.
The menu features about 40 different dishes, but you must try the roasted half-chicken. With its crispy skin, juicy meat, and a side of perfectly seasoned fries, it’s the one dish that keeps guests coming back. The steak tartare and escargots are also worth a try, adding to the overall unpretentious, satisfying experience.
Le Crocodile is the spot if you’re looking for a place with charm, impeccable French cuisine, and a bit of grandeur.
9. Bar Bête
Bar Bête may be the best French restaurant for a dinner date in Carroll Gardens, N.Y.C. It has marble tables, large globe lights, and a charming sidewalk patio. You can enjoy a perfectly crafted cocktail with your significant other and let the time pass by. The dining room’s open windows let in a gentle breeze, and the attentive staff only adds to the cozy, welcoming vibe.
The menu at Bar Bête changes frequently, but one thing remains constant: the mouth-watering appetizers and tasty desserts are a must-have. Standout dishes include the chicken liver mousse, duck fat potatoes, and the must-try dessert cake. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a sip of wine and dive into meaningful conversations.
10. Balthazar
Balthazar isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. This iconic Soho spot, open since 1997, offers an energetic mix of guests, from seasoned regulars who swear by their whipped cream to TikTok enthusiasts eager to try the famed French onion soup. You’ll find an eclectic crowd here, and that’s part of Balthazar‘s charm.
While the breakfast and lunch menus are ideal for a sophisticated meeting over freshly baked bread and salads, it’s dinner where Balthazar shines. The steak frites are a staple, served with a beurre blanc sauce with just enough indulgence.
Though the steak might be less memorable, the crispy fries are a must-order. And if you’re lucky enough to snag a bar seat before 7 pm or after 9 pm, you’ll be perfectly positioned to soak up the lively ambiance that makes Balthazar one of N.Y.C.’s most beloved French brasseries.
11. The Odeon
The Odeon is one of those places that always retains its cool. Once a buzzing Tribeca hotspot in the ’90s, it’s still going strong, thanks to its classic red awnings and spot-on brasserie feel. The menu covers all the French basics you’d expect, like steak frites, French onion soup, and steak tartare, which you can have as an appetizer or a main course.
But if you’re not in the mood for something traditionally French, they’ve got an Impossible burger and a vegetarian purple sticky rice bowl that fits right in. It’s a mix of old-school charm and modern bites—worth a visit if you’re in the area.
12. Minetta Tavern
Restoring a legend is no small feat, but Minetta Tavern has kept its history alive, becoming one of N.Y.C.’s best spots for memorable night-out meals. Once the hangout for literary greats like Hemingway and E.E. Cummings, today it’s less about writers and more about anyone who appreciates good food in a space that feels timeless.
When it reopened in 2009, Minetta took food enthusiasts by storm, especially with its now-famous Black Label Burger, which set the standard for high-priced burgers in the city. The hype was real, but today, this place has settled into its groove and is better than ever.
The Bone Marrow and Bone-In NY Strip are incredible choices; if you’re ready to treat yourself, this is the perfect place. It’s pricey, but Minetta Tavern is worth every cent for those once-in-a-while splurges. And if dinner’s too much for you, you can drop by for lunch or brunch—make sure you get the burger.
13. Steak Frites Bistro
Naming your restaurant after a dish is bold, but Steak Frites Bistro pulls it off confidently, making it the best French restaurant in N.Y.C. This Hell’s Kitchen spot delivers precisely what you’d hope for—simple, delicious French fare without over-the-top gimmicks. It feels like you’ve walked into a Parisian bistro set with worn wood furniture, vintage mirrors, and bustling energy.
The standout dish here is the steak frites, which don’t disappoint. The hanger steak, cooked medium-rare, pairs perfectly with thin, crispy fries.
You can also have the onion soup, topped with a golden blanket of cheese, and the gnocchi Parisienne is a standout in its own right. Even the quirky escargot salad with buttery baguette chunks has its charm. If you’re craving a classic bistro experience, Steak Frites Bistro is the place to be.
14. Le Baratin
Le Baratin might not be the hottest food spot in the West Village, but that’s part of its charm. This cozy bistro has an inviting, unpretentious feel with exposed brick walls and a bit of random sports memorabilia that gives it a unique character.
If you’re into classic French dishes done right, this is your place. The steak fries and garlicky Escargot are solid picks, but don’t overlook the roasted duck—it comes with crispy skin that tastes almost like bacon and a side of creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a great go-to spot for last-minute plans since finding a table here is rarely challenging.
15. Tournesol
Tournesol feels like that neighborhood bistro you keep coming back to. It’s a cozy, one-room spot serving tasty, affordable French dishes daily. The waitstaff is welcoming, always ready with a joke or to refill your wine glass, adding to the charm of this place.
The simple dishes here shine, especially the duck liver terrine and grilled shrimp with chorizo. For a casual date night, the mussels with fries or the goat cheese croquettes are must-tries. With its relaxed vibe and wallet-friendly wine list, Tournesol is perfect for a casual meal or sharing a few glasses of red wine with friends.
Final Note
From classic bistros to modern brasseries, N.Y.C. offers a diverse range of French dining experiences that cater to every palate and occasion. Whether you’re craving a hearty steak frites, a romantic dinner for two, or even a casual hangout with friends, there are several best French restaurants NYC. to suit your taste. So, get the taste of France all while touring the Big Apple, and discover the magic of French cuisine in the heart of New York City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some factors to consider when choosing a French restaurant in N.Y.C.?
Price: French restaurants NYC. range from affordable to costly. Consider your budget when making your selection. (Examples: Affordable – Tournesol, Moderate – Steak Frites Bistro, Pricey – Libertine)
Ambiance: If you want a casual, romantic, or lively atmosphere.
Cuisine: Do you want classic French dishes or something more modern?
Location: Consider how far you’re willing to travel and if there are any French restaurants in your preferred neighborhood.
What are some things to remember when dining at a French restaurant?
Reservations: Many popular French restaurants require reservations, especially on weekends. Be sure to reserve your table in advance.
Dress code: While most French restaurants NYC. are casual, some finer establishments may have a dress code.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in the U.S., though the standard percentage might be slightly higher than in other countries.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at French restaurants?
While French cuisine traditionally features meat, some restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options. It’s always best to check the menu beforehand or enquire with the restaurant staff directly. (Examples: The Odeon has a vegetarian purple sticky rice bowl, and Bar Bête has a duck fat potato dish suitable for vegetarians)
I’m on a tight budget. Are there any affordable French restaurants on this list?
Yes! This list includes a few budget-friendly options, like Tournesol in Long Island City, which offers tasty and affordable French cuisine in a casual setting.
