12+ Best French Restaurants in New York for First-Time Travelers

Atenas Burelo
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French Restaurants New York City offer an exquisite taste of Parisian culture right in the heart of the Big Apple. For first-time travelers eager to indulge in authentic French cuisine, NYC presents a plethora of options ranging from classic bistros to modern brasseries. In this guide, we’ve curated 14 top-rated French restaurants that promise an unforgettable dining experience, ensuring your first visit to the city is both delicious and memorable.​

French restaurants in New York

1. Le Bernardin

A three-Michelin-starred seafood haven, Le Bernardin offers an elegant dining experience perfect for first-time travelers seeking luxury. Renowned for its impeccable service and exquisite dishes, it’s a must-visit in NYC.​ To the delight of fans all over the world, 1998 saw the publication of Le Bernardin’s first cookbook, called Le Bernardin—Four Star Simplicity. Eric Ripert has also published a memoir, The New York Times bestseller 32 Yolks, and four other cookbooks: My Best: Eric Ripert, Avec Eric, On the Line, and A Return to Cooking. 

  • Address: 787 Seventh Avenue, New York
  • Phone: (212) 554-1515​
  • Email: reservations@le-bernardin.com​
  • Website: le-bernardin.com​

2. Jean-Georges

Located at Central Park West, Jean-Georges is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a modern take on French cuisine. First-time visitors will appreciate its refined ambiance and innovative dishes.​ If you have a chance to be in NYC go for lunch or dinner.

  • Address: 1 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023​
  • Phone: (212) 299-3900​
  • Email: info@jean-georges.com
  • Website: jean-georgesrestaurant.com

3. Le Coucou

Le Coucou brings classic French dining to SoHo with a romantic setting and exquisite menu. Ideal for first-time travelers looking to indulge in traditional French elegance. A gracious modern nod to fine European gastronomy, Rose shrinks the intercontinental divide separating the City of Light and the Big Apple, proving that the true essence of fine French dining can thrive in any time zone.

  • Address: 138 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013​
  • Phone: (212) 271-4252​
  • Email: lecoucou.reservations@starr-restaurant.com
  • Website: lecoucou.com​

4. Buvette

12 Best French Restaurants in New York City for First-Time Travelers
Photo via @buvettenyc / Instagram

A charming West Village bistro, Buvette offers a cozy atmosphere and delightful French small plates. First-time visitors will enjoy its authentic Parisian café vibe.​ Established in early 2011 by Chef Jody Williams, in the heart of New York’s West Village, Buvette combines the elegance of an old-world café with the relaxed feel of a neighborhood eatery.

  • Address: 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014​
  • Phone: (212) 255-3590​
  • Email: info@ilovebuvette.com
  • Website: ilovebuvette.com​

5. Frenchette

Best French Restaurants in New York
Photo via @frenchettenyc / Instagram

Located in Tribeca, Frenchette offers a modern twist on French brasserie fare. First-time travelers will appreciate its lively atmosphere and inventive menu.​ Chefs Hanson and Nasr have established a unique mark on New York City’s restaurant scene creating buzzworthy restaurants that are founded in collaboration, professionalism, and innovation.

  • Address: 241 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013​
  • Phone: (212) 334-3883​
  • Email: info@frenchettenyc.com​
  • Website: frenchettenyc.com​

6. La Grande Boucherie

An art nouveau-inspired brasserie, La Grande Boucherie offers a grand dining experience in Midtown. First-time visitors will be captivated by its stunning décor and classic French dishes. The menu at La Grande Boucherie showcases the artistry of French cooking, with each dish crafted from the finest ingredients and presented with impeccable precision.

7. Pastis

A revitalized Meatpacking District staple, Pastis serves up classic French bistro fare in a bustling setting. First-time travelers will enjoy its vibrant atmosphere and timeless dishes.​ Serving traditional French fare with a newly invigorated soul. Pastis features elements similar to the original such as the restaurant’s classic curved zinc bar outfitted with signature subway tiles, vintage mirrors with handwritten daily specials, and a mosaic-tiled floor.

  • Address: 52 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014​
  • Phone: (212) 929-4844​
  • Email: pastisnyc.info@starr-restaurants.com
  • Website: https://pastisnyc.com/

8. Le French Diner

A hidden gem on the Lower East Side, Le French Diner offers an intimate setting with authentic French cuisine. First-time visitors will appreciate its cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes.​ ‘Everyone Who Gets a Seat Feels Special’. Le French Diner is where your favorite chefs eat on their nights off, and this is the place.

9. Raoul’s

14 Best French Restaurants in New York City for First-Time Travelers
Photo via @raoulsrestaurantnyc / Instagram

A SoHo institution since the 1970s, Raoul’s offers a classic French bistro experience. First-time travelers will enjoy its historic charm and renowned steak au poivre.​ This is a place where diners return for consistently well-prepared French American cooking. The kitchen has a delicate touch as seen in the golden-brown jumbo lump crab beignets with a drizzle of Fresno chili remoulade.

  • Address: 180 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
  • Phone: (212) 966-3518​
  • Email: info@raouls.com​
  • Website: raouls.com

10. Amélie

Amélie is a charming bistro and wine bar located in the West Village, ideal for first-time travelers looking for an authentic French experience without pretension. Its cozy atmosphere and excellent wine selection make it a must-visit. With its euro-chic décor, sensual lighting and “the best bar music in the city”, Amélie wine bar has changed the way good wine is enjoyed and consumed. Patrons appreciate the generous pour, the low turnover of the staff, the international flair, and the great choice of good wines at fair prices.

11. Le Rock

Located in Rockefeller Center, Le Rock is a modern brasserie offering classic French dishes with a contemporary twist. Ideal for first-time travelers looking to experience French cuisine in an iconic New York setting. French Restaurants in New York City

12. Le Veau d’Or

Le Veau d'Or
Photo via @leveaudor / Instagram

First-time visitors will appreciate its authenticity and classic atmosphere, reminiscent of Paris of yesteryear. Established in 1937, Le Veau d’Or reopened under neo-bistro extraordinaires, Chefs Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson of Frenchette and Le Rock. The renaissance pays homage to the nearly 100 year history of the space while bringing an elevated level of execution to the food and beverage programs.

  • Address: 129 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
  • Phone:  646-386-7608
  • Email: info@leveaudornyc.com​
  • Website: https://www.lvdnyc.com/

13. Chez Fifi

Chez Fifi is a recent addition to New York’s French culinary scene, offering a cozy and elegant bistro experience. Perfect for first-time travelers looking for an intimate dinner featuring contemporary French dishes. A new French bistro nestled in a historic townhouse on the Upper East Side. In the main dining room, Executive Chef Zack Zeidman delivers Parisian classics with Basque flair. 

14. La Tête d’Or

Recently opened by renowned chef Daniel Boulud, La Tête d’Or combines French tradition with New York modernity. First-time travelers will enjoy its sophisticated atmosphere and carefully crafted menu.

Embarking on a culinary journey through these French Restaurants in New York City is a must for first-time travelers seeking to experience the city’s diverse gastronomic landscape. Each establishment offers a unique slice of France, blending traditional flavors with the vibrant energy of NYC. Whether you’re savoring a delicate soufflé or enjoying a hearty coq au vin, these restaurants ensure your introduction to the city’s dining scene is nothing short of spectacular.​

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