Best French Restaurants in Upper East Side | Top Rated French Food

30 restaurants in Best French Restaurants in Upper East Side | Top Rated French Food

• Les Gateaux de Marie — French · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of caramelizing sugar and browned butter creates an immediate sense of indulgence. Delicate, hand-crafted tarts and towering sponge cakes sit like edible jewels behind polished glass, inviting guests to linger over a masterpiece of French-inspired pastry in an atmosphere of quiet, sugary elegance.
• Eli Zabar — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this Upper East Side institution, where the intoxicating aroma of hearth-baked sourdough and artisanal pastries fills a space brimming with gourmet treasures. The experience feels like a sophisticated escape to a Parisian bistro, where guests linger over vibrant seasonal plates and impeccably sourced delicacies that celebrate the pure, unadulterated flavors of world-class ingredients.
• Supper Club By Le Petit Parisien — French · rated 5/5: Located at 355 E 78th St, New York, Supper Club By Le Petit Parisien offers an authentic French dining experience. Chef Josh Newman's expertise shines through meticulously prepared dishes like Roasted Long Island Duck and Creme Brulee. With a cozy Parisian ambiance, exquisite wine pairings, and exceptional service, this spot is perfect for an unforgettable evening. Reservations recommended.
• Gazette Restaurant & Wine Bar — French · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the upper East Side at 1582 York Ave, Gazette Restaurant & Wine Bar is a cozy spot with a stellar 4.9 rating from delighted patrons. Open Wednesday through Sunday, this charming venue offers an excellent selection of wines, cocktails, and a menu featuring well-prepared dishes, perfect for dinner or dessert. With attentive staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a neighborhood gem you won't want to miss.
• The Simone — French · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into The Simone feels like entering a hidden Parisian salon, where the soft glow of candlelight and the gleam of polished silver create an atmosphere of understated elegance. The kitchen honors the soul of French cuisine through meticulously layered flavors and silken, reduction-rich sauces, offering a graceful escape into a world of timeless culinary artistry.
• Al Vaporetto — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Al Vaporetto captures the soul of a bustling Venetian bistro, where warm wood accents and the soft clinking of crystal create an atmosphere of effortless European charm. The air is perfumed with the scent of slow-simmered ragus and fresh basil, setting the stage for a menu of silken, hand-crafted pastas and vibrant Mediterranean dishes that celebrate the seasons. It is a place where long, leisurely meals unfold over bottles of crisp Italian wine, turning a simple dinner into a transportive escape to the heart of the Old World.
• La sandwicherie upper east side — French · rated 4.7/5: La Sandwicherie Upper East Side is a charming French sandwich shop located at 217 E 85th St, New York. Rated 4.7 stars, this delightful spot is perfect for families, offering a menu for children and great coffee. With both indoor and outdoor seating, curbside pickup, and delivery options, it's perfect for any meal. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, it serves freshly made sandwiches, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and delectable desserts. Credit, debit, and NFC payments are accepted for added convenience.
• Lusardi's — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Lusardi’s captures the timeless elegance of a classic Italian bistro, where the soft glow of candlelight reflects off polished wood and crisp white linens to create an atmosphere of refined intimacy. The air hums with the sophisticated energy of a neighborhood institution, carrying the enticing aromas of slow-simmered Bolognese and fresh Mediterranean herbs to tables laden with silken handmade pastas and tender, golden-brown scaloppine. Every meal unfolds with a sense of storied tradition, offering a seamless blend of old-world charm and vibrant culinary artistry that turns a simple dinner into a celebrated occasion.
• Madame Bonté Café — French · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 318 E 84th St, Madame Bonté Café offers a versatile dining experience. By day, enjoy coffee, pastries, and artisanal sandwiches, while evenings feature small plates and a curated wine selection. This charming café also accommodates brunch, lunch, and dinner, with both indoor and outdoor seating. With a 4.6-star rating and 221 reviews, it's a delightful spot for all occasions.
• Cafe d'Alsace — French · rated 4.5/5: This sun-drenched brasserie transports diners to the heart of the French countryside, where the warm glow of vintage lighting illuminates tables laden with bubbling tarte flambée and aromatic choucroute. The air hums with convivial energy as guests linger over crisp glasses of Riesling, savoring a soulful blend of rustic tradition and refined elegance that feels both timeless and deeply comforting.
• Cafe Boulud — French · rated 4.5/5: Cafe Boulud envelops guests in a sanctuary of polished French sophistication, where the soft glow of elegant lighting dances across crisp linens and gleaming crystal. The kitchen orchestrates a soulful symphony of seasonal flavors, balancing the earthy depth of time-honored Lyonnaise classics with the bright, garden-fresh vibrancy of modern Gallic fare. Every plate is delivered with a seamless grace that captures the essence of a refined Parisian bistro, making each visit feel like both a grand occasion and a warm homecoming.
• Jacques Brasserie — French · rated 4.5/5: Jacques Brasserie transports guests to a sun-drenched corner of Paris, where the clink of crystal and the hum of lively conversation fill a space adorned with vintage mirrors and cozy leather banquettes. The air is thick with the irresistible scent of garlic-herb butter and slow-simmered red wine reductions, inviting diners to linger over golden-crusted baguettes and perfectly seared classics. This soulful retreat captures the essence of a timeless bistro, turning every meal into a celebratory escape into the heart of French culinary tradition.
• Antonucci Cafe — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Antonucci Cafe exudes the polished charm of a refined Roman bistro, where white tablecloths and warm, amber lighting set the stage for a quintessentially sophisticated Italian escape. The air carries the enticing aroma of slow-simmered sauces and fresh herbs, inviting guests to linger over plates of silken, hand-rolled pasta and vibrant seasonal dishes that capture the soul of the Mediterranean. It is a neighborhood jewel where impeccable service and a lively, intimate atmosphere transform every meal into a graceful celebration of tradition.
• Due — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Due radiates the effortless charm of a modern Italian bistro, where the clink of crystal and the aroma of slow-simmered ragu create an atmosphere of refined comfort. Hand-crafted pastas and vibrant, seasonal plates take center stage, inviting diners to experience a soulful celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The sleek yet warm interior provides the perfect backdrop for long, wine-filled evenings that bridge the gap between rustic tradition and contemporary elegance.
• Café Carlyle — French · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of New York City at 35 E 76th St, Café Carlyle offers an intimate and luxurious dining experience, perfect for an elegant evening out. Known for its charming old New York ambiance, this upscale venue features a cabaret setting with many celebrity appearances. Patrons can indulge in exquisite dishes paired with fine wines, all while enjoying mesmerizing live music performances. With exceptional service and a 4.5-star rating from 466 reviews, Café Carlyle promises a memorable experience best suited for adults. Whether it's lunch, dinner, or a delightful afternoon tea, this venue captures the essence of sophisticated New York dining.
• Madame Bonté Café — French · rated 4.5/5: Tucked into the cozy Yorkville block on the Upper East Side, Madame Bonté Café is a delightful, sibling-owned haven known for its warm ambiance and excellent service. Serving everything from coffee and pastries to breakfast and dinner, the café offers a menu filled with avocado toast, croissants, and gluten-free and vegetarian options. With its up-to-date design and inviting atmosphere, it's a popular spot for solo dining and working on a laptop. Don't miss the desserts and the well-loved tea selection!
• Osteria Nando — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of New York City, Osteria Nando is a cozy French eatery renowned for its romantic ambiance and elegant menu. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or brunch, this charming bistro offers delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a variety of desserts. Guests can enjoy a selection of fine wines and cocktails, making it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. Reservations recommended.
• Toloache — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: A vibrant Mexican bistro where the smoky perfume of a wood-burning oven and the rhythmic shake of artisanal cocktails create an atmosphere of sophisticated celebration. The open kitchen serves as a theatrical stage where rustic soul meets urban elegance, bringing together hand-pressed tortillas, complex moles, and the bright, bold flavors of contemporary Mexico in every spirited bite.
• Le Moulin à Café — French · rated 4.4/5: This sun-dappled bistro transports diners to a quiet Parisian side street, where the rhythmic hum of the coffee grinder and the aroma of freshly baked brioche create an atmosphere of timeless charm. Traditional flavors take center stage as guests tuck into golden-crusted quiches and rich, wine-braised stews, each dish celebrating the rustic elegance of French home cooking. With its cozy nooks and clinking glasses of crisp Chardonnay, the space offers a soulful sanctuary for those seeking a leisurely escape into the heart of Gallic hospitality.
• AOC East — French · rated 4.4/5: AOC East evokes the timeless charm of a Parisian hideaway, where the warm glow of amber lighting spills across intimate bistro tables and the air carries the irresistible scent of garlic-infused butter and slow-braised meats. Every meal is a sensory journey through the French countryside, pairing velvety sauces and artisanal cheeses with a curated wine list that invites guests to linger long into the evening.
• Jean Claude II — French · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into Jean Claude II feels like discovering a hidden gem on a quiet Parisian side street, where the soft glow of candlelight flickers against polished wood and the air carries the intoxicating scent of slow-simmered sauces and fresh herbs. This intimate sanctuary brings the soul of French bistro culture to life, offering a refined yet soulful escape where every plate is a masterclass in the timeless harmony of rich flavors and elegant presentation.
• Brasserie Cognac 70th — French · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Lenox Hill, Brasserie Cognac 70th is an upscale French restaurant that blends classic and modern cuisine in a romantic, inviting atmosphere. The menu spans lunch and dinner with favorites like cheese puffs, steak frites, and escargot, paired with an impressive selection of drinks. Perfect for date nights and group gatherings, this brasserie also offers outdoor seating, catering, and curbside pickup. Reservations recommended.
• QUATORZE — French · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Yorkville, QUATORZE is a quintessential Parisian bistro offering haute French cuisine for lunch, brunch, and dinner. The cozy, romantic atmosphere complements a menu that features classics like beef bourguignon, duck confit, and steak frites. With an extensive selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, attentive service, and a reservation-friendly setup, this establishment ensures a delightful dining experience.
• Jean Claude 2 — French · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Lenox Hill, Jean Claude II offers a charming and cozy French bistro experience. With a menu featuring classic dishes like steak frites and duck breast, along with an array of omelettes, soups, and delightful desserts, this spot is perfect for a romantic lunch or intimate dinner. Offering wine, cocktails, and brunch options, Jean Claude II promises a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Reservations accepted.
• Gracie Mews Restaurant — American · rated 4.3/5: This polished neighborhood gem exudes a timeless charm, where the warm glow of brass accents and deep leather booths invites guests to linger over quintessential American comforts. The air hums with the savory aroma of sizzling steaks and the crisp brightness of garden-fresh salads, capturing the soulful essence of a classic New York bistro. It is a vibrant social anchor where every meal feels like a homecoming, blending effortless elegance with the hearty, familiar flavors of the American table.
• Orsay — French · rated 4.3/5: Orsay captures the timeless allure of a Parisian brasserie, where the golden glow of candlelight dances across marble tabletops and the air hums with the sophisticated energy of a lively bistro. Guests are swept away by a sensory journey of rich, velvet sauces, crisp artisanal breads, and perfectly chilled carafes of wine, all coming together to create an atmosphere of effortless European charm.
• Caffe Buon Gusto — Italian · rated 4.3/5: This charming Italian haunt captures the spirit of a bustling Roman bistro, where the clinking of wine glasses harmonizes with the aroma of garlic-infused olive oil and toasted focaccia. Hand-stretched pastas and tender, herb-roasted meats arrive at linen-topped tables, offering a masterclass in simple, soulful flavors that transport the palate straight to the heart of the Mediterranean. It is a place where time slows down, encouraging long, laughter-filled evenings fueled by robust red wines and the comforting embrace of authentic hospitality.
• Nightly's Bar and Bistro — American · rated 4.3/5: Nightly’s Bar and Bistro captures the heartbeat of the neighborhood, where the low hum of conversation mingles with the enticing aroma of charred steaks and artisanal burgers. This polished yet approachable haunt invites guests to settle into leather-clad booths for a journey through bold American flavors, complemented by craft spirits and a vibe that transitions seamlessly from a sun-drenched afternoon to a spirited, moonlit evening.
• QUATORZE bis — French · rated 4.3/5: Quatorze bis captures the timeless spirit of a Parisian bistro, where the warm glow of amber lighting dances across polished wood and crisp white linens. The air is rich with the intoxicating scent of garlic-infused butter and simmering red wine reductions, inviting guests to linger over classic French comforts in a space that feels both effortlessly elegant and intimately familiar.
• B. Cafe — French · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side, B. Cafe is a charming spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, complemented by an impressive selection of Belgian beers. With a 4.3 rating from 491 reviewers, it’s a hit among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers outdoor seating, making it a perfect place for a relaxed meal. Families are welcome, and there’s a delightful range of desserts to complete your dining experience.