This wildly popular Parisian-styled
brasserie has done what only a select
few New York restaurants can manage –
it began with a splash years ago yet remains
one of the hottest spots in town.
Red leather banquettes,
retro ceiling and lighting, big brass
mirrors, a bustling bar area, and a breathtaking
raw bar set the Balthazar scene in style.
The food is outstanding
– and we’ve tried nearly everything
in our many visits! The Le Grand raw bar
selection is a must-order. Mounds of sparkling
fresh oysters and shellfish arrive on
multi-tiered platters. It’s one of
the best we’ve ever had.
Our onion tart craze began
with Balthazar’s Warm Goat Cheese
and Caramelized Onion Tart starter –
and frankly, no one else’s has ever
quite measured up. French bistro classics
fill up much of the menu – other
starters include creamy Brandade, a satisfying
duck terrine, and perfect Coquille St.
Jacques. Entrees don’t miss a beat,
from exquisitely delicate Sole Normande
served with shrimp and cockles in a creamy
sauce, to a soul-satisfying duck version
of Shepherd’s Pie. Steak Frites and
Duck Confit are some of the best this
side of the Atlantic.
Artisan quality bread is
produced in-house, as are decadent desserts
and pastries, thanks to the Balthazar
Bakery, located right next door to
the restaurant.
Balthazar’s wine list
is large and strictly French. The selections
are solid and mostly pricey, but with
a solid handful of wine under $40, particularly
in the Languedoc and Rhone sections. Be
sure and try the carafe wines – they’re
a great deal and completely tasty.
Food is served virtually
around the clock here – from breakfast
through late-night supper. Popular weekend
brunch includes outstanding egg and waffle
dishes. We recommend dining here at every
meal. Seriously. (august 2002)
80 Spring St.
New York, NY 10012-3907
212.965.1414
www.balthazarny.com
