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Guide to New York

French food and smash burgers

You appreciate the history of French cooking but have no patience for food that isn't as satisfying as a smash burger.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Le Pistol Bar & Cafe image 1
Le Pistol Bar & Cafe image 2
Le Pistol Bar & Cafe image 3
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French-American bar and bistro style blends with a Rock-a-Billy vibe in a chic space featuring small tables and outdoor street seating. Live jazz and DJ music create a hip atmosphere with great energy and good vibes. Creative cocktails and standout dishes add to the lively, stylish experience.

Gruyรจre cheese features prominently in the French onion soup and a dip served on baguette rounds. The oxtail dip on baguette offers a richer, more elevated option.

Smash burger features well-seasoned patty with strong umami flavor balanced by a tomato jam that adds a unique twist.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the super creative cocktails here."

"The smash burger here is so well-seasoned with an interesting tomato jam."

"The French food here is served by super friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with great drink specials.

2

The happy hour burger and beer combo costs $17.

3

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday evening.

02
Willow Vegan Bistro image 1
Vegan restaurant

Mid-century modern decor with sound absorbing panels creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere despite tight table spacing. The space features huge windows that add natural light, balancing the compact layout. Music and lighting contribute to a warm, comfortable vibe where conversation is easy.

French onion soup stands out with its fantastic flavor and fresh ingredients. The calamari made from king oyster mushrooms offers a unique plant-based twist that mimics the real thing well.

Smash burgers come 100% vegan with options like a double smash burger with fried egg and an eggless runny egg topping. They impress even carnivores with their flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The vegetarian comfort food here is so flavorful and satisfying."

"I came for the French onion soup and it was perfect."

"I loved the double smash burger, it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-priced drinks and finger food from 5 to 6:30 pm.

2

Sandwiches are discounted on Thursdays.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekends or busy hours.

03
Bun & Beyond Smashburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Smashburger restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming vibe with great music and a chill late night atmosphere. Groups of loud young men occasionally bring noise, but overall the space feels clean and friendly. The spot attracts those looking for solid burgers and a relaxed dining experience.

Crepes stand out with options like the lotus crepe, praised for its deliciousness and made with care. Varieties include the Oreo and kinder crepes, offering sweet choices for dessert.

Juicy, perfectly cooked patties sit on a soft Martinโ€™s potato bun with American cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and a signature sauce. The smash burgers come with fresh, fluffy buns and deliver a consistently amazing flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always served fresh."

"I thought these smash burgers were the best on the island."

"I'm addicted to their juicy, crispy-edged smash burgers."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices for burgers are around $15, with some options under $10.

3

They offer discounts for students, so bring your ID.

04
Florentin image 1
New American restaurant

Small space with gorgeous design and an L-shaped bar creates a cozy, buzzing atmosphere. Warm lighting and open French doors blend indoor comfort with an inviting outdoor patio. Cocktails stand out alongside fresh, flavorful food, making for a relaxed yet lively dining experience.

Steak frites comes cooked medium rare with a simple, tasty menu. French onion soup features Gruyรจre cheese and pairs well with the dishes. Desserts include tiramisu.

Crunchy but soft bun tops a smash burger with solid flavor. The burger stands out alongside other dishes like chicken Paillard and Branzino.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, bursting with flavor and beautifully prepared."

"The steak frites here is what steak frites aspires to be."

"The smash burger was great, with a crunchy yet soft bun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends, particularly for dinner.

3

The restaurant offers a happy hour from 5-7 PM with discounted drinks.

05
Winnie Said image 1
Restaurant

Cozy space with a cabin-themed decor and a community gathering vibe blends classic charm with youthful energy. Comfortable seating and a lively atmosphere make it ideal for socializing or watching a game. Craft cocktails and a back room lounge add distinctive touches to the experience.

Steak frites stands out with its classic French style. The menu also features French onion soup and crab fries, adding variety to the French offerings.

Smash burger comes hot and fresh with a crispy exterior. It pairs well with crispy fries and stands out alongside a chicken sandwich option.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the crab fries and smash burger."

"The smash burger here is incredible and delicious."

"The French onion soup and crab fries were delicious."

Good to know

1

Getting there early and sitting at the bar is recommended to avoid crowds.

2

The restaurant has gluten-free (GF) choices available on the menu.

3

Make sure to check out the back room for a different atmosphere.

06
Fat Rabbit image 1
American restaurant

Upscale diner with 80s and 90s nostalgia features a cozy, beautiful interior with snakeskin leather walls and slow tempo pop music creating a relaxing vibe. Regulars often sit at the bar, enjoying the folk and pop folk classics playlist. The atmosphere blends intentional design with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Steak frites stands out with its crispy chicken and sweet brioche complementing the dish. Beet and Caesar salads arrive fresh alongside the main courses.

The smash burger stands out with its great flavor and killer taste.

People are saying

"I loved the elevated diner food with a twist."

"You have to try the smash burger; it's juicy and cooked just right."

"I thought the steak frites were the best French food in the neighborhood."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $132 for two burgers, an appetizer, and drinks.

2

Fries and other sides are charged separately when ordering sandwiches.

3

Brunch is very crowded, so plan to arrive early.

07
Diner 24 NYC image 1

Classic diner design blends with cozy, comforting atmosphere and calm, happy energy. Music ranges from Frank Sinatra classics to a jukebox with personal selections, enhancing the nostalgic vibe. Seating includes comfy chairs with outlets, supporting relaxed meetings or work sessions.

French onion soup stands out with a rich, savory flavor and generous roast beef filling. The chocolate croissant French toast offers a crispy, decadent bite balanced by light whipped cream.

Double Smash Burger features perfectly cooked patties with crispy edges and rich flavor. The 12-ounce beef patties deliver a satisfying, out-of-this-world taste that stands out among burgers.

People are saying

"The diner staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"I thought the smash burgers here were amazing and crisp."

"The French onion soup here is delicious and unique."

Good to know

1

Brunch is available any day.

2

Happy hour offers $4 beers and $7 cocktails at the bar.

3

Breakfast is served all day.

08
Do Not Disturb image 1
Seafood restaurant

Dimly lit space with multiple rooms offers a speakeasy vibe and sensual lighting. Music blends R&B and hip hop, creating an upbeat atmosphere for drinks or dates. Signature cocktails stand out alongside well-decorated and comfortable seating areas.

Steak Frites au Poivre delivers strong flavor and charm, though it can take a while to arrive. The mac and cheese also stands out as a delicious choice alongside the steak frites.

Two patties, cheese, and a mayo-ketchup blend make up the smash burger. It features a bacon espresso jam and comes with shoestring fries on the side.

People are saying

"The lobster pasta at these Date Spots is rich and full of character."

"You have to try their smash burger; it's a must."

"The French Food, especially the mac and cheese and steak frites, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to limited seating, especially for events.

2

Expect long wait times as the establishment tends to overbook tables.

3

The venue has a separate back room for additional seating during busy times.

09
Haswell Green's image 1
Cocktail bar

Large cocktail bar with live music and a stage for performers creates a lively atmosphere. Spacious layout includes two floors and ample seating, with cozy booths for conversation. Energy peaks on weekends with dancing and dueling pianos.

French onion soup appears often and pairs with dishes like steak frites and goat cheese salad. The menu also features whipped ricotta on brioche and fresh popcorn shrimp.

Smash Burger stands out with its juicy, flavorful patty and satisfying texture. It pairs well with sides like fries and guacamole, making it a popular choice among the menu items.

People are saying

"The food here was really good and delicious."

"You have to try the smash burger; it's a 10/10."

"I had the best French onion soup ever."

Good to know

1

There is usually a cover charge of $10 when they have live music.

2

The bottomless dinner starts at 5pm and includes unlimited drinks for 90 minutes.

3

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are the best days to visit for live music.

10
Time Out Market Union Square image 1

Food court with an open, modern design and bright, spacious seating creates an upbeat, social vibe. Loud club and rap music set a lively, energetic tone, attracting a local crowd who come to eat, meet, and unwind. A large bar and rooftop terrace add distinctive features for drinks and views.

Steak Frites stands out with its excellent quality and rich flavor. Both Patty Palace and Lori Jayneโ€™s versions at Time Out Market Union Square deliver consistently satisfying French food.

Cheesy and savory flavors define the smash burger here. The burgers come with a distinct crispy edge and juicy interior.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has tons of different vendors and options."

"I'd eat Lori Jayne's steak frites daily if I could."

"I loved the cheesy savory smash burger."

Good to know

1

Wednesday is their infamous steak frites night.

2

Time Out Market Union Square offers a happy hour.

3

They do not accept cash directly and require buying a gift card.

11
Pastis image 1
Restaurant

Loud, energetic dining space with Parisian bistro decor and a buzzing bar scene. Outdoor seating offers a quieter, charming alternative with some heated tables. Crowds gather for the authentic French vibe and lively atmosphere.

Steak frites comes perfectly cooked with crispy, golden fries. Traditional French dishes like escargots in garlic butter, duck confit, and foie gras feature prominently alongside fresh seafood and classics like quiche and croque madame.

Smash burgers here deliver a nostalgic vibe with every bite. They come topped with American cheese that melts perfectly, enhancing the classic flavor.

People are saying

"It felt like a charming Parisian bistro with great French food."

"The steak frites here is perfectly cooked and incredibly satisfying."

"I loved the smash burger with American cheese and a soft bun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must due to the popularity and packed house.

2

Walk-ins are likely to face a long wait or may not get in at all.

3

Visitors should be prepared for the noise and make reservations in advance.

12
Hoexter's image 1
New American restaurant

Warm, cozy rooms with unique decor and wildlife murals create a Hollywood glam vibe. The space feels narrow and intimate, with a lively atmosphere that can get loud near the bar and hostess stand. It attracts a neighborhood crowd looking for a special occasion spot with standout cocktails and rich, flavorful dishes.

French onion soup stands out with rich flavor and comes with garlic bread. Steak frites and a classic ice cream sundae also feature as notable dishes.

Double smash burgers come highly recommended here. The smash burger pairs well with garlic bread for a simple, satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the smashburger."

"You have to try the French Onion Soup; it's dynamite."

"I think the smash burger is truly the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

2

There is a $3.00 extra charge for olives in the Martini.

3

You need to order a full dinner to have drinks at a seated table in the bar area.

13
Au Cheval image 1
New American restaurant

Graffiti-adorned alley leads into a modern, rustic space with dim lighting and upbeat ambiance. A lively atmosphere fills the restaurant, with a secret speakeasy bar downstairs offering a more intimate setting. The place draws a crowd that appreciates a cozy yet trendy vibe.

Brioche buns stand out with their light, buttery, and rich texture that doesn't overwhelm. Steak frites offer a charred crust and juicy, tender meat, while the burger features airy brioche with balanced mayonnaise, cheese, and beef.

Double patties define the classic smash burger here, cooked with egg and bacon for extra flavor. The atmosphere matches the vibe of a true smash burger spot.

People are saying

"You have to try these burgers; they're perfectly cooked and juicy."

"The French food here is amazing, especially the juicy, melting burgers."

"I found the Smash Burgers here to be amazing and elevated."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to avoid long waits, especially during peak hours.

2

The wait to get in is about 20-25 minutes depending on party size.

3

The speakeasy operates from 6-11 pm on certain days downstairs.

14
Jacob's Pickles image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers packed seating with a loud, energetic vibe that suits groups more than quiet meals. Outdoor seating provides a pleasant alternative with shaded and open options near a basketball court. Interior features include custom lighting and a sizable bar with well-organized service.

Croque madame stands out with its rich flavor and large portions. The menu also features fried pickles and street corn with spicy aioli, adding variety to the French-inspired offerings.

The patty melt smash burger stands out and satisfies well. Some find the smash burger too salty, which affects its appeal.

People are saying

"The biscuits here are huge and delicious."

"The French food, especially the croque madame, is delicious with huge portions."

"The original smash burger here really did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must for weekend brunch to avoid long wait times.

2

The brunch has a long wait for a table but no wait for seating at the bar.

3

On Saturdays, a pulled pork special is available until it runs out.

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