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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Midtown East

French food lunch spots

A French lunch is the only way to turn a midday break into something worth lingering over.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Tartinery Café - Bar | Olympic Tower image 1
Tartinery Café - Bar | Olympic Tower image 2
Tartinery Café - Bar | Olympic Tower image 3
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Space offers magnificent views of St. Patrick's Cathedral with an open, airy atmosphere and casual seating. Energy stays peaceful and quiet, making it suitable for work or relaxation despite nearby city bustle. Occasional live music and a bar add a lively touch without overwhelming the calm vibe.

Croque monsieur and Croque Madame stand out with rich, classic flavors. Fresh egg and cheese brioche with bacon offers a satisfying, savory bite. Tartines like salmon and ricotta bring a light, fresh touch to the menu.

Lunch combos include a soup and petite tartine for $15.5, offering a well priced and perfectly sized meal. The ambiance stays pleasant and peaceful with live music during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty and delicious."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so kind and attentive."

"I thought the French Food croque monsieur was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The kitchen closes at 4:30 PM, despite the all-day menu.

3

Lunch deal includes a soup and small tartine for $15.5.

02
Tartinery Café - Bar | Grand Central image 1

Open café buzzes with lively atmosphere near transit hub. French classics like croque monsieur shine alongside quick lunch combos. Friendly service and a full bar make it perfect for casual or business meals.

Croissants come light and flaky, with the ham and cheese version being buttery and fluffy. The café serves classic French sandwiches like croque madame and croque monsieur, both prepared very well.

Lunch offers quick combos with a soup and sandwich special and a good drink selection. Service stays congenial and attentive during personal or business meals.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, good, and original."

"The happy hour staff, especially Carlos and Chris, were so kind and helpful."

"I tasted one of the best croque madame in French food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with $5 beers.

2

The happy hour offers 2 for 1 tarts.

3

The location is perfect for happy hour before catching the train.

03
Benny John's Bar and Grill image 1

Live guitar and jazz music create a relaxed, European cafe vibe with comfortable seating both indoors and on a pleasant outdoor patio. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and groups, offering an upscale yet cozy setting with excellent energy throughout.

French onion soup stands out with rich flavor. The steak tartare and creme brulee also impress with their quality and taste.

Lunch offers amazing food paired with excellent service. Staff like Christian and Jose create a special, welcoming atmosphere for drop-in meals and group lunches.

People are saying

"I've never had a steak cooked so perfectly to my preference."

"I had a perfect lunch; the food was amazing."

"I've never had French onion soup this good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has an all-day happy hour with a variety of appetizers.

2

Happy hour drink specials are available all night at the bar.

3

Reservations are recommended due to high demand during peak times.

04
Château 49 French Bistro image 1
French restaurant

Small space with indoor and outdoor seating offers a cozy, warm atmosphere reminiscent of a French countryside restaurant. Live jazz performances create a laid-back, welcoming vibe that encourages lingering. Frequented by friendly people, it blends modern style with a homey wine bar feel.

Escargots come in a cream sauce instead of the usual buttery, garlicky one. Other dishes like flatbreads, octopus, steaks, and duck also show strong French influences.

A pre fix lunch menu offers a variety of good dishes. The setting is beautiful, making it a pleasant spot for a midday meal. Wine options complement the lunch well for a relaxed experience.

People are saying

"The food here, like the Boeuf Bourguignon, is rich and deeply flavorful."

"The French food here, especially the escargot, is delicious and garlicky."

"The lunch spot had amazing duck breast, mussels, and salmon."

Good to know

1

The bar closes at 10 PM, and the kitchen closes at 9:30 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 12-7 PM daily with $9 drinks.

3

Guests can choose to sit outside, inside, or at the bar.

05
Monkey Bar image 1
American restaurant

Bar area features Jazz Age murals and dim, intimate lighting that create an elegant, old-school Manhattan vibe. The space combines classic New York decor with lively jazz music and a bustling bar scene. Patrons enjoy carefully crafted cocktails and a setting that feels like stepping into another era.

Steak tartare stands out as a delicious star on the menu. Steak frites also impress with their exceptional flavor alongside potato pancakes and a burger.

Lunch offers a sophisticated vibe with an ambience that feels like dinner even during midday. It serves as a go-to spot for a fancy lunch in an old-school setting.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the cheeseburger, is outstanding."

"The wagyu cheeseburger at this Lunch Spot melted in my mouth."

"The French Food monkey bread is amazing."

Good to know

1

A reservation is effectively REQUIRED to be seated for dinner service.

2

They take reservations 14 days in advance at 9am.

3

Without wine, expect to spend at least $100-150 for a meal.

06
Le Pavillon image 1
French restaurant

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer soaring views of iconic city landmarks, creating a romantic and comfortable atmosphere with high-class NYC energy. The space feels intimate yet spacious, blending lush plants with elegant decor. A well-curated bar complements the refined dining experience.

Foie gras stands out with an exceptionally good texture and flavor. Dishes like yellowfin tuna, dry-aged beef, and French onion soup feature rich, elevated tastes that highlight classic French techniques.

Lunch features a three-course menu with appetizer, entree, and dessert options. The setting suits both business lunches and celebrations, with flexibility for dietary substitutions.

People are saying

"The wine list here is excellent, with creative and wonderfully prepared pairings."

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious and beautifully plated."

"The French food here is divine, bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the dining room.

2

The restaurant offers a pre-set menu for Valentine's Day lunch.

3

The Annual Black & White Truffle Dinner is on December 9th.

07
Le Jardinier image 1
French restaurant

Dining space resembles an airy greenhouse with green marble and plush cushions, creating a sleek, refined vibe. Atmosphere blends casual elegance with a touch of corporate formality, evoking classic power lunch settings. Spacious seating suits both meetings and family gatherings.

Bread offerings include light brioche, sourdough rolls, and crunchy grissini. Menu features steak tartare, scallops, wagyu, risotto, and salmon, with desserts like yuzu, Montblanc meringue, and chocolate mousse.

A quiet lunch spot with a beautiful dining room and impeccable service. The lunch prix fixe menu features delicious scallops and salmon.

People are saying

"The desserts here were on another level."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The French food here is amazing, especially the perfectly cooked salmon."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The tasting menu costs around $100 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Jazz night happens every Wednesday in the upstairs lounge.

08
Monterey image 1
American restaurant

Art Deco design and warm sunset vibes create a cozy, beautiful atmosphere perfect for lunch or French food lovers. Enjoy tender steak frites and rich foie gras alongside a martini cart serving custom cocktails. Lunch is tasty, cheap, and suits casual or business meals.

Foie gras stands out with rich flavor that draws repeat visits. Steak frites arrives tender and perfectly cooked, with a sauce that ties the dish together. Other highlights include Comte bread and New Orleans style prawn.

Lunch offers tasty and cheap dishes with a lovely ambiance. It suits both casual meals and business lunches well.

People are saying

"The Bananas Foster dessert came with a live flambé show."

"This Lunch Spot's steak frites and salmon were amazing."

"The French Food, especially the steak frites, was amazing and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during restaurant week due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is on the pricey side at $168 per person with tip.

3

The stairs to the bathroom may be challenging for senior citizens.

09
PARK AVE KITCHEN BY DAVID BURKE image 1

Beautiful interior with Himalayan sea salt decor and lots of windows creates a classy, charming atmosphere. The vibe feels like an old neighbor, offering a unique and welcoming experience. A grab-and-go area adds convenience for those on the run.

Steak frites comes in a small portion but satisfies. Bread basket and crème brûlée stand out, with the dessert offering a wonderful texture and balanced sweetness.

Lunch offers grab-and-go options and a variety of choices that suit solo diners. Seating happens quickly even during busy hours, supported by impeccable service.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and packed with flavor."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so kind and attentive."

"Kate and Luis make amazing French Food drinks."

Good to know

1

The happy hour at Park Avenue Kitchen is every day from 4pm until 7pm.

2

The menu has limited options for those with shellfish allergies.

3

The restaurant offers a creative and innovative menu during restaurant week.

10
Empire Steak House image 1

Steak house occupies a grand space with historic elements and a gorgeous wine cellar for private events. Warm, elegant ambiance blends with live jazz music and a legit cocktail bar, creating a memorable dining atmosphere. The crowd enjoys top-tier aged beef and creative drinks in a setting that balances coziness with sophistication.

French onion soup stands out as a key dish here. The menu also features emperor steak and lavender crème brûlée for dessert.

Quick Lunch Menu offers astonishing quality and a great variety for a weekday meal. Lunch experiences here often stand out during restaurant week with notable flavors and service.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"This lunch spot's filet mignon was perfectly medium rare."

"The French Food here, especially the steak, just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Jazz nights occur every Friday and Saturday, starting at 9pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for large events, especially for parties over 60 guests.

11
Copinette image 1
American restaurant

Space combines cozy modern decor with heated outdoor seating offering people watching and a Parisian flair. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing brunch to lively with live jazz and Bossa Nova music. Crowd includes intimate family gatherings and groups enjoying cocktails and private events.

French onion soup comes perfectly flavored and served piping hot. The steak frites stands out as excellent.

Private rooms and a mezzanine area accommodate groups from 10 to 15 for family lunches and fundraisers. Prix fixe menus offer three-course lunches and special restaurant week options.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly delicious and crafted with love."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is professional and friendly."

"The French onion soup was perfectly flavored and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made online the same day.

2

The restaurant offers a 3-course lunch for $30 during restaurant week.

3

Happy hour offers good wine by the glass.

12
maman image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with bright open windows creates a cozy and calm atmosphere. Seating includes small tables suited for chatting, and laptops are not allowed. Decor features abundant hydrangeas, adding to the inviting vibe.

Pistachio croissants stand out with unique flavors and textures. Large, tasty quiches and a flavorful red pepper aioli add variety to the French offerings.

Smaller size keeps it less crowded, so finding a seat during lunch is easy. Prices stay reasonable, and options include vegetarian and gluten-free choices along with to-go coffee.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it was amazing."

"This lunch spot has delicious pastries and well-prepared food."

"The French pastries here are super delicious, just like in Paris."

Good to know

1

The avocado toast costs $14 with tax.

2

The sandwich costs $17.

3

Maman is a laptop-free environment.

13
Morton's The Steakhouse image 1

Upscale restaurant with art deco style and an intimate, romantic atmosphere featuring mellow jazz music and live performances. Spacious bar area offers a wide selection of cocktails and wines. Decor blends modern and vintage elements, creating a stylish and luxurious setting.

French onion soup stands out with its rich flavor and depth. Potato gratin offers a creamy, satisfying side that complements the meal well.

Lunch features a 6 Oz filet mignon sized perfectly and cooked with super high quality. The two-course lunch offers a delicious and satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The Steakhouse staff's hospitality and attention made my dining experience outstanding."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is attentive and quick."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a three-course meal for $60 per person during restaurant week.

2

Restaurant week features a prix fixe menu with various options.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

14
The Reading Room image 1
New American restaurant

Hidden behind a hotel lobby, the space offers rustic decor with wood accents and a modern speakeasy bar. Atmosphere varies from quiet and comfortable to loud and lively during dinner hours. Cocktails and steak dishes stand out as notable features.

Steak frites stand out with perfectly cooked steak and crispy fries. Chimichurri sauce is available on the side for added flavor.

Busy lunch hours still offer available tables. The menu features many good lunch options and suits both midday meals and after-work cocktails.

People are saying

"The steak was cooked perfectly."

"The steak sandwich and hand-cut fries make for a great Lunch Spot."

"The French food, especially the steak frites, is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested even for lunch due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant closes early on Wednesdays, with the kitchen closing at 9:15 PM.

3

Happy hour offers food and drink specials, making it a great time to visit.

15
Brasserie Cognac Midtown East image 1

French restaurant offers a cozy, intimate space with Parisian-style decor and a chic bar featuring excellent cocktails. Atmosphere feels like a relaxed Parisian bistro, encouraging easy conversation. Seating is well spaced, creating a comfortable and inviting vibe.

Steak tartare stands out as a highlight, noted for its quality and flavor. Classic Beef Bourguignon offers a tasty and consistent French dining experience with a Parisian bistro ambiance.

Lunch here feels pleasant and well cared for, with attentive service making the experience smooth. The spot suits both business meetings and celebrations, offering a great atmosphere for midday meals.

People are saying

"The French food service here is amazing and so friendly."

"I enjoyed the great cocktails; they were delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was excellent and served quickly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant opens at 7 am, offering breakfast options.

3

Expect a 20% service fee added to all bills.

16
Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecôte image 1

Seating feels extremely cramped with tables placed shoulder to shoulder in a lively, noisy atmosphere. The space fills quickly, creating a crowded environment that suits casual dining rather than intimate occasions. Wine selections often complement the menu well, adding to the energetic vibe.

Steak frites come as the only main dish, served with a signature secret sauce and a salad appetizer. The bistro offers a Parisian Steak Frites experience with consistently great quality and friendly staff explaining the simple menu.

Lunch offers short wait times, even on busy days. The meal features a signature sauce with fries that adds value. Service during lunch is friendly and attentive.

People are saying

"The steak frites here are a tasty treat with a secret recipe sauce."

"The steak frites here are the best French food in town."

"The steak and fries at this Lunch Spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not take reservations, leading to long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of up to 2 hours during peak times.

3

Arrive before opening at 5:30 PM for the shortest wait.

17
Grand Brasserie image 1
French restaurant

Magnificent space inside an iconic terminal offers a chic yet comfortable vibe with captivating decor and a top-notch bar featuring a spacious counter. The atmosphere balances quiet indoor seating with lively areas, making it suitable for various gatherings.

Offers a beautiful French-American take on the brasserie concept with a rich and flavorful French onion soup. Presents a captivating hidden luxury dining experience suitable for every occasion.

Prix fixe lunch menu offers three courses at a reasonable price with portions enough for almost two people. Daily $35 lunch specials before 3pm provide good value for a memorable lunch experience.

People are saying

"The French food service was slow, with long waits for bread and desserts."

"The three-course lunch here is a great value at $35."

"I found the onion soup to be phenomenal."

Good to know

1

The establishment is open until 2AM every day.

2

The restaurant serves food until 2 AM.

3

You can get seated right away without a reservation.

18
Le Café Louis Vuitton NYC image 1

Elegant café space features Louis Vuitton-themed decor with artistic design and monogrammed tableware. Atmosphere feels upscale yet relaxed, with expertly crafted cocktails and attentive service creating a warm, welcoming vibe.

Sliders au Foie Gras stand out with rich, buttery foie gras that melts in the mouth. Viennoiseries and croissants impress with flaky, buttery layers, while the Monogram Flower Ravioli and Pommes Frites add refined French touches.

Securing a last-minute lunch reservation is possible here. The spot offers a luxury dining experience suitable for special occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

"The desserts here are rich, indulgent, and beautifully presented."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The French food, especially the steak frites and pastries, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to enter the venue.

2

You definitely need a reservation for lunch at 12pm.

3

Strollers are not allowed in the restaurant.

19
P.J. Clarke's Third Avenue image 1
American restaurant

Historic pub with 19th-century interiors and a 150-year-old bar creates an authentic old New York vibe. Atmosphere shifts from quiet dining to lively, crowded bar with classic jukebox tunes and live music. Walls display photos of legendary bartenders, adding to the timeless local charm.

Steak frites stand out with a solid but not exceptional taste, priced at 36 dollars. The oysters Rockefeller offer a notable option, and the brioche bread complements the meal well.

Lunch offers generous portions with a focus on pub burgers and sandwiches. Options include raw seafood paired with cold drinks, making it a solid spot for a midday meal or a pint.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were fantastic and great."

"This lunch spot has a really good pub burger."

"The steak frites here are wonderful, truly incomparable French food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a 20-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

The bar area operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

20
Cafe Joyeux image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious café with a bright cheery color scheme and high ceilings creates an inviting and well-designed workspace. The atmosphere is welcoming and cheerful, filled with positive energy and friendly vibes. Staff interactions can be loud, which may affect quiet activities like reading or writing.

Quiche stands out with its packed ingredients and solid flavor, including a tasty ham and cheese croissant. Sandwiches and croissants offer a classic French touch with reliable quality.

Efficient service fits well into a regular work lunch break. Staff is nice and the menu includes delicious lunch options and matcha coffee.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious."

"The French Food here is served with such friendly and quick service."

Good to know

1

The bathroom and entrance are wheelchair accessible.

2

Outdoor seating is available for safety during COVID.

3

The hot drink and pastry combo for $8 is a steal.

21
Centurion New York image 1

Bar offers unparalleled city views with a live jazz band enhancing the atmosphere. Energy feels exclusive and classy without being stuffy, attracting a clientele with specific membership requirements. Attention to detail shows in customized napkins and a sophisticated cocktail selection.

Michelin-level dishes show Chef Daniel Boulud’s influence with refined foie gras, truffle pasta, and duck. Desserts include a refreshing Chestnut Mont Blanc and a very sweet chocolate eclair.

Spectacular city views create a unique setting away from the usual airport terminal. The lunch period is calm with a noticeable lack of crowd, making it a quiet spot for a light meal.

People are saying

"The views here are spectacular and stunning."

"The views from this lunch spot are spectacular and breathtaking."

"The French food here has an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline."

Good to know

1

Reservations are mandatory for dining; walk-ins are not allowed.

2

Only American Express and cash are accepted for payment.

3

The restaurant offers a three-course prix-fixe dinner for $175.

22
Le Pain Quotidien image 1

Spacious restaurant with clean, cozy decor and quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Seating areas support studying and working, complemented by WiFi availability. Outdoor tables offer people watching opportunities in a pleasant setting.

Croissants come in several varieties like ham and Gruyère and almond, paired with tasty sides like salad. Bakery items include quiche, smoked salmon terrine, and linzer cookies, offering generous portions and solid flavors.

Offers various salads, toasts, and soups with vegetarian options. Sandwiches and soup are common lunch choices here.

People are saying

"The breakfast staff here is so friendly and accommodating."

"This lunch spot has simple, delicious food made with fresh ingredients."

"I loved the Gruyère mushroom quiche; it was incredible."

Good to know

1

During late afternoon, the cafe offers tartine with mint lemonade.

2

You can order at the front to-go or sit for table service.

3

Breakfast for three people costs $96 after tax and tip.

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