An ode to Le French Diner

This week took a while to get inspired to write about a dining experience, so I thought I would look back at one of my favourite’s in New York- Le French Diner. Somehow a perfectly kept secret, but also a place you want to tell everyone about.

Le French Dinner’s charm lies in its small interior with only seven tables in the entire restaurant, but the real magic happens in their tiny kitchen. Personally, my favourite seats are at their counter top, where if you’re lucky you’ll get to have a lovely chat with the restaurant’s owner. Sharing stories, discussing the menu, and receiving personal recommendations really makes this place so special. And somehow, you find yourself looking over two finished bottles of wine by the end of the night.

My absolute favourite item on the menu is the perfectly cooked Hangar steak- some might say it’s pure witchcraft how it tastes exactly how you would want it to be, but even better than you could have imagined. Pair the Hangar steak with a side of Gratin Dauphinoise and you’ll be talking about this meal for a long time.

Although Le French Diner may be a well-kept secret, it is undoubtedly a place that you want to share with friends and loved ones. The restaurant exudes a sense of charm that makes it a perfect destination for a romantic date night or a much needed catch up with friends. So, if you find yourself in New York City and yearning for a dining experience that feels like a hidden treasure, make your way to Le French Diner- a place very close to my heart that reminds me of how much I miss the city.

They only accept walk ins, so I’d recommend putting your name down around 6/7pm if it’s a weekend and then head over to Bar Goto for a pre dinner drink.

188 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, United States

*Photo from The Infatuation