Parisian Lunch in New York

Imagine stepping into a place where Parisian elegance meets contemporary French cuisine, right in the middle of Manhattan. The Parisian Lunch in New York tour offers just that—a chance to enjoy a taste of France without leaving the city. While I haven’t personally experienced this particular tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a delightful midday escape.

What makes this experience appealing are its balanced focus on quality food, its authentic bistro atmosphere, and the convenience of a fixed-price menu perfect for a quick yet satisfying lunch. The $35 price point for two courses, plus a soft drink, makes it a reasonable option for those wanting to indulge without blowing their budget. One thing to keep in mind is the limited window of operation—mainly weekdays between noon and 3 pm—so it’s best suited for those with flexible schedules.

This experience will resonate most with travelers seeking a calm, stylish lunch spot with authentic flavors, especially pre-theater diners or those on a midtown lunch break. If you love discovering hidden gems that offer a genuine ambiance and a taste of France, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Parisian Atmosphere: Stylish interior and al fresco options evoke the charm of a French bistro.
• Delicious, Well-Crafted Menu: Two courses that showcase classic French ingredients and techniques.
• Affordable Price: At $35 per person, the menu offers good value for high-quality cuisine.
• Convenient Timing: Perfect for midday meals, especially for busy travelers or pre-theater plans.
• Limited but Intimate Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized service.
• Includes a Soft Drink: No need to worry about extra costs unless you want alcohol.

What to Expect: A Taste of France in Midtown Manhattan

The tour takes you to Paris Bar 57 NYC, a restaurant that captures the essence of a Parisian bistro. The setting offers both indoor elegance and outdoor al fresco dining, making it adaptable to your mood or the weather. The ambiance is described as stylish yet relaxed, ideal for a leisurely lunch or pre-theater dinner.

Your fixed-price menu includes two courses, with a choice of appetizer and main. Alongside the meal, you get a soft drink, ensuring a complete, fuss-free experience. The entire experience lasts about one hour and thirty minutes, making it suitable for a quick escape or a relaxed break.

The First Course: Fresh, Flavorsome Starters

The menu features three enticing starters:

• Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing mix of endive, bibb lettuce, watercress, and baby gem greens, tossed with roasted shallot vinaigrette—perfect for cleansing the palate.
• Goat Cheese Croquette: House-smoked goat cheese paired with lavender honey, balancing savory richness with a hint of sweetness.
• Scallop Ceviche: Fresh scallops combined with peppers, pineapple, and cilantro, served with crispy wonton chips—this dish offers a vibrant burst of flavors and textures.

Based on reviews, guests appreciated the quality and presentation of these starters, particularly the scallop ceviche, which was described as fresh and thoughtfully prepared.

The Main Course: Options to Satisfy Different Tastes

For the main, you can choose from:

• Fettucine d’Été: Handmade pasta with summer mushrooms, asparagus, fava beans, and a delicate beurre blanc—an ideal choice for those craving a seasonal, vegetable-forward dish.
• Seared Salmon: Served over leek and mushroom hash with velvety vichyssoise, this option offers a hearty yet refined experience.
• Roasted Half Chicken: Herb-seasoned, paired with Patty Pan squash and a savory Glace de Poulet—great for lovers of classic roasted poultry.
• Steak Frites: A bistro staple—perfectly cooked steak with crispy fries and ravigote pistou, for anyone craving a satisfying, straightforward dish.

Guests have described the steak frites as a “classic bistro” dish that hits the spot, especially when paired with a crispy side and flavorful pistou.

Extras and Considerations

One of the tour’s highlights is its simplicity and focus on quality. The inclusion of a soft drink streamlines the experience, and gratuities are covered, making the price tag transparent. Alcoholic beverages are not included and require guests to be 21 or older if they choose to add them.

The small group size — a maximum of 10 travelers — ensures attentive service and a more intimate dining atmosphere. The tour operates mainly on weekdays, from 12 pm to 3 pm, so plan accordingly.

Authenticity and Practicality: What Travelers Say

While no reviews are yet available, the detailed descriptions suggest that guests can expect a well-curated menu and a charming setting. The fact that the experience is offered at a fixed location means you can anticipate consistent quality, and the location near public transportation simplifies logistics.

For those who enjoy French cuisine with a modern twist, the menu’s seasonal ingredients and focus on freshness are promising. The option to dine outdoors adds a layer of relaxed elegance, great for people-watching or simply soaking up the Midtown vibe.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the price of $35, the inclusion of two courses, a soft drink, and the intimate setting, this experience offers solid value. You’re not just paying for the food but for an atmosphere that evokes a Parisian bistro—a great way to break up a busy day or enjoy a quick yet memorable meal.

While it’s not a full-fledged culinary tour or a multi-course feast, this lunch delivers on quality, ambiance, and authenticity. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a taste of France without leaving New York City.

This tour suits food lovers craving authentic French flavors, busy Midtown professionals, and theater-goers who want a reliable, stylish meal before a show. It’s also ideal for those interested in small-group experiences that keep things personal and relaxed.

If you’re after a delicious, well-presented lunch with an unmistakable Parisian flair, this experience will satisfy that appetite. Just remember to book in advance, as the limited hours and small group size mean spots can fill quickly.

For anyone seeking a cozy, chic spot with great food and a touch of European elegance, Paris Bar 57 NYC is definitely worth a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu as described mainly features seafood, poultry, and beef. Vegetarians might find limited options, but the green salad or veggie-focused pasta could be suitable, depending on the day’s menu.

How long does the experience last?
The entire lunch takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick escape or a leisurely break.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each guest receives one soft drink with their meal. Alcoholic beverages are available but not included.

Can I dine outdoors?
Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating which adds to the Parisian bistro vibe, weather permitting.

Is this experience good for large groups?
The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate meal but not ideal for very large groups.

What is the location?
The meeting point is 120 W 57th St, New York—central and accessible via public transportation.

Is it a good option for a pre-theater dinner?
Yes, the timing aligns well with a quick, quality meal before shows in Midtown.

Are gratuities included?
Yes, gratuities are covered in the price, so you don’t need to worry about tipping separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it a family-friendly option depending on children’s tastes.

To sum it up, the Parisian Lunch in New York offers a neat blend of authentic French cuisine, charming ambiance, and reasonable pricing. It’s best suited for those wanting a taste of Paris in the city, especially if they appreciate well-crafted food and a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re seeking a quick yet memorable meal or a stylish break from the bustle, this experience fits the bill beautifully.