Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Midtown West

Upscale French food

Upscale French food that maintains its classic roots without becoming a stuffy, white-tablecloth affair.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
The Consulate Midtown image 1
The Consulate Midtown image 2
The Consulate Midtown image 3
View all
French restaurant

Two-floor layout showcases upscale French decor with dim lighting and live jazz music creating a lively, classy atmosphere. Cocktails and dishes like escargots and bone marrow stand out amid elegant surroundings. Second floor offers private seating for intimate gatherings.

Escargots stand out as phenomenal and unmatched. The lobster risotto offers a nostalgic, rich flavor. The crรจme brรปlรฉe features a thin, candy-like crust with a creamy, sweet interior.

Elegant and sophisticated ambiance creates a warm and welcoming setting. The space feels charming and inviting, fitting for romantic dinners or special celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, juicy, and tasty."

"The French food service here is outstanding and attentive."

"The ambiance here is so elegant and inviting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3:30 PM with great drink specials.

2

Live music occurs every Thursday and Saturday night.

3

The kitchen closes ten minutes after a 9:30 PM reservation.

02
La Grande Boucherie image 1
French restaurant

Belle ร‰poque building houses a Parisian bistro style restaurant with a beautiful bar and huge outdoor seating area sheltered from rain. The atmosphere feels classy and cozy, enhanced by jazz music and elegant decor. The pub room offers a comfortable, fun space for casual meals without reservations.

French onion soup stands out as a key dish here. The bistro offers a solid selection of classic French dishes in a cozy setting.

Big, elegant space with warm lighting and classic French dรฉcor creates a magical, sophisticated atmosphere. The vibe stays lively yet inviting, blending charm with authenticity.

People are saying

"The French food here is served in a gorgeous, grand interior."

"You have to see Sean at the bar; his absinthe presentation is amazing."

"It's an upscale place with a stunning, elegant Parisian-style decor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available at this bar, which is hard to find in NYC these days.

2

The happy hour at Bench offers great prices.

3

You should make reservations at La Grande Boucherie because they are super packed.

03
Quality Bistro image 1
French restaurant

Large sweeping windows and bright, airy design create a modern, cozy atmosphere with a buzzy yet intimate vibe. Crowds bring lively energy, especially on busy nights, while unique butter service offers a distinctive dining experience. Outdoor seating adds a charming touch to the space.

Exceptional French and American dishes deliver consistent quality and flavor. The menu suits special occasions like birthdays and weddings with a reliable dining experience every visit.

Elegant and clean atmosphere sets a sophisticated yet cozy ambiance. The space feels warm and inviting with attentive staff enhancing the comfortable dining experience.

People are saying

"I thought the French Onion Soup was the best I ever had."

"The French onion soup here is the best I ever had."

"The Upscale food here is outstanding, especially the beef tartare."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely recommended for Sunday brunch.

2

Be prepared to spend a little over $100 per person before tip.

3

Quality Bistro charges $60 for 4 oz of steak.

04
Benoit New York image 1
French restaurant

Cozy French bistro with classic decor and a European atmosphere that invites leisurely dining. Spacious bar and well-placed mirrors create an open feel, while a charming outdoor seating area offers a romantic setting. Lively energy with a DJ and festive vibe complements the upscale Parisian bistro experience.

Hearty cassoulet serves well for sharing, capturing authentic French flavors. Appetizers include foie gras, a standout choice that fits the classic French bistro style.

Elegant French bistro style sets a sophisticated yet warm ambiance. The decor stays simple but feels upscale and inviting, ideal for a romantic night.

People are saying

"The French onion soup here is the best I've ever had."

"The wine selection here is deep and interesting."

"It's an elegant, chic spot with a distinctly Parisian atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during peak times.

2

Benoit offers a Valentine's Day five-course tasting menu with optional wine pairing.

3

Expect a minimum 18% gratuity added to your bill.

05
Le Rock image 1
Restaurant

Art deco style with tall ceilings and dim, romantic lighting creates a chic, stylish setting. The space feels lively and fashionable, often busy with a brasserie vibe and ambient chill music. Tables sit close together, contributing to a noisy atmosphere that can feel crowded.

Cheese from Lyon and baked escargot in herbs stand out. Mushroom agnolotti, duck ragu, and Escargots Bourguignons with an almond flour disc add rich flavors. Beignets Brandade de Morue offer a savory punch. Frites with aioli complete the meal.

Elegant setting highlights a sophisticated modern take on authentic French classics. This spot serves as an elegant new French destination with a refined atmosphere.

People are saying

"The French onion soup and steak frites were delicious."

"The traditional French desserts here are my favorite part."

"This elegant French destination offers a sophisticated approach to classics."

Good to know

1

The lunch prix fixe is only $39, which is a great value.

2

Winter Restaurant Week 2025 offers special pricing.

3

The New Yearโ€™s party provided a great experience.

06
The Modern image 1
Restaurant

Dining space overlooks MoMA sculpture garden with a sleek, contemporary design that feels both stylish and comfortable. Atmosphere ranges from businesslike indoors to elegant and inviting on the outdoor terrace. Unique touches include Polaroid keepsakes, kitchen tours, and occasional live DJ sets.

Steak tartare comes with life changing potatoes and stands out as a highlight. The five-course menu includes dishes like Eggs on Eggs on Eggs with caviar and toasted brioche, chestnut cappelletti with foie gras, and venison.

Elegant venue with a simple atmosphere and a unique outdoor space. Menu features detailed, sophisticated ingredients and offers three-course lunches that are both approachable and refined.

People are saying

"The food here is thoughtfully prepared and delicious."

"The French food here, especially the steak tartare, is amazing."

"I found the experience here to be exceptional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed to avoid being seated at the bar.

2

The restaurant offers a three-course menu during restaurant week in the bar area.

3

For a truly special experience, book the chef's table inside.

07
The Bar Room at The Modern image 1

Modern dining space offers an elegant and civilized atmosphere with beautiful lighting and decor overlooking a green courtyard oasis. The vibe ranges from chill and inviting to lively and chaotic on busy nights, with excellent cocktails and a casual yet sophisticated bar area.

Steak tartare stands out with its crispy potatoes and a sauce rich in eggs and chives. The potatoes are well-seasoned and add a wonderful texture contrast to the dish.

Elegant and comfortable ambiance matches the museum's fancy and sophisticated atmosphere.

People are saying

"The desserts here are thoughtful and effortlessly professional."

"The French food here, especially the steak tartare, is amazing."

"The Upscale food is thoughtful, with perfectly cooked duck and balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

During Restaurant Week, the restaurant offers 2 courses for $45 or 3 courses for $60.

2

Reservations should be made at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during restaurant week.

3

The restaurant week menu is for lunch only, costing $45 for two courses and extra for dessert.

08
WatchHouse 5th Ave. image 1

Coffee shop offers chic design and spacious seating with both indoor and outdoor options. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy despite occasional crowding, supported by pleasant music and a welcoming vibe. Frequented by those seeking a peaceful spot to enjoy specialty coffee and conversation.

Croissants stand out with their light, buttery texture and come in classic, chocolate, and blood orange varieties. The pain au chocolat is rich and served warm, making it a notable French pastry here.

Elegant service and staff create a refined atmosphere. The interior features high ceilings, warm wood tones, and intricate stone textures for a classical, immaculately considered look.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, especially the Americano."

"The chocolate pain au chocolat here is so delicious."

"It's an elegant space with high ceilings and warm wood tones."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ has a 90-minute policy on sitting inside.

2

They have very limited seating, making it hard to find a spot.

3

The cafรฉ didn't have iced coffee at 11 AM during a heat wave.

09
Paris Bar image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers an intimate, classy atmosphere with French art and subtle French music enhancing the space. The interior combines cozy, elegant design with beautiful views from a rooftop bar. Guests enjoy imaginative cocktails and well-presented classic dishes in a relaxing setting.

Pate de campagne stands out with lovely presentation and pairs well with Tempranillo. French onion soup features a large pastry top, while pomme frites and mousse au chocolat deliver exceptional flavors.

Interior features a cozy, elegant design with decor that evokes esprit de Paris. Subtle French music plays in the background, enhancing the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails were crisp, refreshing, and beautifully balanced."

"The French food here is amazing, with such attentive service."

"The decor here is elegant and thoughtful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is great for a pre-concert meal at Carnegie Hall.

2

The Paris Bar is located within the Le Meridian hotel on 57th Street.

3

The restaurant offers excellent creative French cuisine.

10
Empire Steak House West image 1

Steak house offers understated sophistication with handcrafted chandeliers and polished mahogany tables creating a timeless charm. Atmosphere stays calm and hospitable with live music and occasional fire performances adding energy. Staff often celebrate special occasions with singing and desserts, enhancing a welcoming vibe.

Rich, flavorful French onion soup stands out with its deep, savory taste. The fresh oysters offer a crisp start, while the lavender crรจme brรปlรฉe provides a light, floral finish to the meal.

Warm and inviting atmosphere features elegant decor and perfect lighting. The vibe balances lively yet intimate with music that suits both casual dinners and special occasions.

People are saying

"I thought the steaks here were the best I've ever had."

"The steaks here are cooked and seasoned to perfection."

"Our server Ardie was a pleasure to talk to."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

2

The pre-theater menu offers 3 courses for an unbeatable price of 50 dollars.

3

The happy hour lasts until 7 PM with discounted drinks.

Discover more

Midtown West, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...