Even with long waits and excruciating noise levels, most out-of-towners agree that it's worth making reservations to experience restaurateur Keith McNally's flagship, a painstakingly accurate reproduction of a Parisian brasserie. Like the decor, entrées re-create French classics: Gruyère-topped onion soup; steak-frites; and icy tiers of crab, oysters, and other pristine shellfish. Brunch is one of the best in town—if you can get a table. The best strategy is to go at off-hours, or on weekdays for breakfast, to miss the crush of hungry New Yorkers.
Reviewed by GiovanniNYC from NYC on 12/21/08
This is one of my absolute all-time favorite restaurants in New York City. In fact, I take my mother here every time she’s in for a visit. The food is great, and the atmosphere is delightful. It reminds me of Paris, or even what I would imagine is considered “old school” New York City chic. It’s located in SoHo, and if you happen to go there for brunch, there’s lots of great shopping and fun things to do and see in the neighborhood, as well. My favorite thing to order on the menu is the Steak Frites- it’s some of the best, in my opinion, in the city. For dessert, Balthazar’s crème brûlée is out of this world. The crowd is somewhat upscale, but not too fancy to intimidate my mother visiting from a small town. If you live in New York City, and haven’t been there- go. They also have a bakery next door if you want to take a loaf of some sweet or salty deliciousness home with you.
Reviewed by rodaxs from Monterre, Mexico on 2/25/07
Good food, just as expected. Very crowdy and a 15 to 30 minute wait, but it is worth it. Good value.
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