Best Upscale French Restaurants in Carroll Gardens | Upscale French Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale French Restaurants in Carroll Gardens | Upscale French Food

• Sociale — Italian · rated 5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights, Sociale captures the spirit of a bustling European bistro where the clink of wine glasses provides a rhythmic backdrop to an evening of shared discovery. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into rustic, soul-warming plates designed for the center of the table, inviting guests to linger over vibrant flavors and spirited conversation.
• Carlotte Patisserie — French · rated 5/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched sanctuary, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of caramelized sugar and golden, flaky pastry fresh from the oven. Jewel-toned fruit tarts and meticulously layered cakes shimmer behind glass displays, inviting visitors to linger over artisanal treats that balance delicate textures with rich, classic flavors.
• Petite Crevette — French · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into this intimate bistro feels like discovering a hidden corner of the French coast, where the air is perfumed with garlic, browned butter, and the briny promise of the sea. Rustic wooden accents and flickering candlelight set the stage for an evening of soulful seafood classics, where every bite of velvety bisque or salt-crusted fish captures the simple, timeless elegance of a seaside escape.
• Swoony's — American · rated 4.7/5: Swoony’s invites guests into a polished yet soulful sanctuary where the warm glow of amber lighting dances across leather banquettes and the air hums with the convivial energy of a neighborhood gem. The kitchen breathes new life into American classics, turning out succulent, wood-fired proteins and refined comfort dishes that balance nostalgic flavors with sophisticated, modern technique. Every visit feels like a curated celebration of the timeless bistro experience, where effortless charm and culinary heart take center stage.
• Black Mountain Wine House — French · rated 4.7/5: Black Mountain Wine House, located in Brooklyn's Gowanus, is a cozy haven perfect for wine enthusiasts. With a rustic charm enhanced by a fireplace and a fenced-in patio, this romantic wine bar invites patrons to unwind. The extensive wine list complements a menu of shareable small plates, including cheese plates, crostini, and meatballs. Outdoor seating is available through NYC's Open Restaurant Program, making it an ideal spot for a delightful evening.
• Bar Bête — French · rated 4.6/5: Bar Bête glows with an intimate, amber-hued warmth, where the clinking of wine glasses and the low hum of a neighborhood crowd fill a space defined by rustic brick and sleek, modern finishes. The kitchen breathes new life into French bistro traditions, balancing bold, savory depths with delicate seasonal artistry to create plates that are as soulful as they are sophisticated. It is a place where the timeless elegance of a Parisian corner meets the vibrant energy of Brooklyn, inviting guests to linger over an evening of refined yet spirited indulgence.
• The Little Sweet Café — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the charming Boerum Hill, The Little Sweet Café is a cozy bistro perfect for breakfast, lunch, and quick bites. Renowned for its coffee and crepes, this spot also serves up delightful sandwiches, desserts, wine, and beer. With a unique atmosphere and friendly staff, it's a great place to unwind. The typical spend is $10-20. Find them at 77 Hoyt St, Brooklyn, NY, or call +1 718-858-8998.
• Levant on Smith — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Located in Carroll Gardens, Levant on Smith offers a warm, cozy bistro ambiance and a delightful modern twist on classic French cuisine. The menu caters to brunch, lunch, and dinner with popular items like steak frites, French onion soup, and black garlic gnocchi, plus vegetarian and organic options. Guests can enjoy a curated selection of cocktails, beer, and wine. With its welcoming vibe and exceptional service, Levant on Smith is perfect for any occasion.
• Surfish Bistro — Seafood · rated 4.6/5: Surfish Bistro offers an upscale dining experience with a trendy flair in Brooklyn. Specializing in Peruvian cuisine, it features delectable ceviches and paellas that excite the palate. With a 4.6 rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, it's evident that visitors appreciate the flavorful dishes and pleasant atmosphere. Ideal for groups and good for children, this restaurant ensures a memorable culinary journey. For reservations and more, visit surfishbistro.com.
• French Louie — French · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Boerum Hill, French Louie is a chic bistro that effortlessly blends French and American cuisine. With offerings for brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, this cozy spot shines with its charming atmosphere, alluring garden seating, and delightful kids' menu. Signature dishes like steak frites and crème brûlée French toast, alongside vegetarian and vegan options, make it a local favorite. Guests rave about the attentive service, delectable desserts, and a well-rounded drink menu featuring beer, wine, and creative cocktails. Ideal for family gatherings or a romantic date night, French Louie promises a memorable dining experience.
• June — French · rated 4.4/5: Bathed in a soft, romantic glow, June captures the effortless charm of a Parisian hideaway where velvet banquettes and flickering candlelight set the stage for an intimate evening. The kitchen breathes new life into Gallic traditions, weaving together the richness of velvet-smooth sauces with the bright, crisp snap of seasonal harvests. It is a place where time slows down over lingering pours of Burgundy and plates that balance rustic soul with sophisticated finesse.
• Jamit Bistro — American · rated 4.4/5: Welcome to Jamit Bistro, your laid-back spot in Brooklyn offering a delightful mix of Jamaican cuisine, Italian, and Chinese dishes. With a 4.4-star rating from 146 reviews, this family-friendly eatery serves delicious desserts and a kids’ menu. Enjoy the convenience of indoor and outdoor seating, and various dining options including dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Join us for brunch, lunch, or dinner at 367 Columbia St. Reservations recommended. Call us at +1 347-599-0941.
• Cafe Luluc — French · rated 4.3/5: This quintessential neighborhood bistro transports diners to a sun-drenched corner of Paris, where the clinking of silverware and the warm glow of vintage mirrors create an effortlessly chic atmosphere. The air is perfumed with the scent of golden, cloud-like pancakes and rich espresso, inviting guests to linger over buttery pastries or savory classics at cozy sidewalk tables. It is a soulful sanctuary where the simple elegance of French comfort food turns every meal into a timeless, leisurely escape.
• Le Petit Café — French · rated 4.3/5: Bathed in the warm glow of vintage sconces, this intimate bistro captures the effortless romance of a Parisian side street with its polished zinc bar and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused escargot. Time slows down over plates of tender coq au vin and bottles of deep Bordeaux, inviting guests to linger amidst the soft hum of conversation and the comforting crunch of a perfectly golden baguette.
• Bar Tabac — French · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Cobble Hill, Bar Tabac brings the charm of an old-world Parisian bistro to Brooklyn. With a lively atmosphere, complete with regular live music, the restaurant serves up classic and modern French cuisine for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy favorites like steak frites and moules frites, or explore their organic and vegan options. Families and groups are welcome, and the attentive service and excellent location make it a standout spot.
• Bar Bruno — Mexican · rated 4.2/5: Bar Bruno captures the sun-drenched spirit of a Mexico City bistro, where vibrant blue tiles and retro accents create a lively backdrop for spirited neighborhood gatherings. The air hums with the rhythm of cocktail shakers and the irresistible aroma of sizzling carnitas, inviting guests to linger over smoky mezcal margaritas and plates of zesty, street-style fare.
• Olivier Bistro — French · rated 4.2/5: Stepping into Olivier Bistro feels like discovering a hidden gem in the Marais, where flickering candlelight dances across vintage mirrors and the irresistible aroma of garlic and browned butter fills the air. The kitchen honors the soul of French cooking, serving up rich, wine-braised classics and delicate tarts that pair perfectly with a curated selection of regional vintages. It is a sanctuary of effortless elegance, inviting guests to slow down and savor the vibrant, storied flavors of a true Parisian neighborhood haunt.
• The New Daisy's Diner — American · rated 4.1/5: Nestled in the heart of Park Slope, The New Daisy's Diner offers an easygoing, cozy atmosphere perfect for any time of day. Known for its generous portions and classic American comfort food, the menu features crowd-pleasers like burgers, omelets, and French toast, along with all-day breakfast, milkshakes, and desserts. Kid-friendly with a dedicated children's menu, this spot is great for families and breakfast lovers alike. Open early and late, it’s an excellent choice for dine-in, takeout, or delivery.
• Ssam Korean Bistro — Korean · rated 4.1/5: Located at 170 Smith St, Brooklyn, Ssam Korean Bistro offers a delightful spin on traditional Korean fare. With standout dishes like fried chicken and BBQ, the bistro features a cozy, relaxed ambiance. It's an ideal spot for groups, complete with a full bar and notable vegetarian options. Rated 4.1 stars by nearly 500 patrons, this modern bistro also provides takeout and delivery services.
• La Bicyclette Bakery — French · rated 4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched bakery feels like a morning escape to a rustic French village, where the rhythmic dusting of flour and the warmth of the hearth create a sanctuary for pastry lovers. From the shatteringly crisp layers of a classic croissant to the deep, earthy tang of hand-shaped sourdough, every bite celebrates the slow, deliberate art of traditional baking.
• Petite Crevette — Seafood · rated 4/5: Stepping into this maritime-inspired gem feels like a retreat to a breezy coastal bistro, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of creamy crab chowder and garlic-kissed shrimp Provençal. The kitchen transforms the ocean’s bounty into artful plates, from the delicate silkiness of tuna carpaccio to the satisfying crunch of golden-fried oysters and hearty, overstuffed po' boys. It is a sanctuary for seafood lovers, where vibrant vine-ripened tomatoes and perfectly roasted sea bass celebrate the simple, honest beauty of fresh ingredients.
• French Louie — French · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched Boerum Hill sanctuary blends the effortless chic of a Parisian bistro with the soulful warmth of a Brooklyn neighborhood gem. Beneath the glow of brass fixtures or within the leafy embrace of the secluded garden, guests indulge in perfectly seared steak frites and vibrant, seasonally-inspired plates that celebrate the intersection of French tradition and modern American flair.
• Bar Bruno — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the expansive windows of this vibrant corner bistro, where the air is alive with the scent of charred chilies and the rhythmic clinking of salt-rimmed glasses. It is a neighborhood sanctuary that marries retro-cool aesthetics with the bright, zesty flavors of coastal Mexico, inviting guests to linger over crisp tacos and refreshing micheladas. Whether perched at the bustling bar or lounging on the breezy sidewalk, the experience is one of effortless conviviality and sun-drenched charm.
• Le Petit Café — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through large windows to illuminate marble-topped tables and woven bistro chairs, creating a charming sanctuary that feels like a hidden corner of Paris. The air is thick with the comforting aroma of buttery, golden croissants and rich espresso, inviting guests to linger over savory tartines and delicate pastries crafted with seasonal flair. This intimate retreat captures the effortless elegance of European café culture, offering a soulful escape where every artfully poured latte and quiet conversation feels like a celebration of the everyday.
• Popina — Italian · rated 4/5: Popina invites diners into a spirited space where the rustic charm of a neighborhood bistro meets the refined artistry of modern, Italian-inspired cooking. The air carries the enticing aroma of freshly baked sourdough and charred octopus, while vibrant plates of jewel-toned beets and delicate, hand-folded caramelle celebrate the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Whether sharing salty anchovies over a crisp glass of wine or lingering over a rich bowl of silken pappardelle, guests find a soulful retreat that balances bold Mediterranean flavors with an effortless, welcoming elegance.
• Poppy's — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood gem welcomes guests with the intoxicating aroma of spiced cardamom morning buns and buttery, golden-brown scones fresh from the oven. The kitchen seamlessly transitions from artisanal bakery to wholesome bistro, serving up herb-flecked roasted chicken and comforting pot pies alongside vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired plates and savory tapenades. Every visit feels like a warm embrace, culminating in decadent treats like the tiramisu choux that perfectly balance rustic charm with sophisticated flair.
• Brooklyn French Bakers — French · rated 4/5: The scent of toasted butter and warm yeast spills onto the sidewalk, drawing neighbors into a sun-drenched space where the rhythmic crackle of fresh baguettes provides the morning’s soundtrack. Glass cases glisten with golden, flaky croissants and jewel-toned tarts, each pastry a testament to traditional Gallic techniques reimagined with a soulful, artisanal Brooklyn spirit. It is a place where the simple pleasure of a shatteringly crisp crust and a rich café au lait transforms a daily routine into a brief, indulgent escape to a Parisian street corner.
• Bar Rêve — French · rated 4/5: Bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, Bar Rêve transports guests into a lush sanctuary where velvet textures and shimmering candlelight create an atmosphere of sophisticated escapism. Artfully crafted cocktails infused with botanical notes pair seamlessly with refined small plates, inviting diners to linger over delicate flavors in an intimate, dreamlike setting where time seems to slow down.
• Emma's Torch — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this airy Brooklyn bistro, where the rhythmic clatter of the open kitchen signals a transformative culinary journey for its refugee student-chefs. The menu breathes life into New American classics by weaving in global spices and soulful techniques, resulting in vibrant, seasonal plates that tell a story of resilience and new beginnings. It is a space where fine dining meets profound purpose, offering guests a seat at a table where every bite celebrates the power of community and craft.
• Cheese Plate — French · rated 3/5: This intimate haven celebrates the art of the curd, where marble counters are laden with artisanal wheels and the air carries the nutty, complex aroma of aged rinds. Guests linger over beautifully composed boards featuring creamy bries and sharp cheddars paired with wildflower honey and crusty bread, all complemented by a curated selection of wines that invite slow, thoughtful conversation.