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Le Parisien Bistrot
Master Critic Review
Le Parisien Bistrot
8.6
Le Parisien is a compact Murray Hill bistro where steak frites, escargots, and moules marinières anchor a tightly focused menu of French classics. Since 2010, regulars have used it for cozy dates, low-key celebrations, and neighborhood dinners built around bistro standards and a short, well-chosen wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
French onion soup with Gruyère, Bistrot steak frites, Moules marinières with fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Compact neighborhood bistro serving straightforward French classics since 2010.
Who should go: Francophiles craving cozy steak frites and good wine.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early weekend evenings before it fills.
What to order: French onion soup, steak frites, moules marinières.
Insider tip: Ask for a two-top along the wall for the quietest tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages on 2nd and 3rd Avenue are usually the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many diners lean polished for date nights and business meals.
Noise level: Moderate—lively enough to feel energetic but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute pause during the office rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—salads, French onion soup (vegetarian stock when available), and sides can make a light meal.
Vegan options: Very limited—best approached with advance questions or special requests.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options like mussels, salads, and grilled proteins, but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it’s intimate, romantic, and classic without feeling stuffy, making it ideal for conversation-focused dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can, especially on weeknights or early evenings, but reservations are strongly recommended for Friday and Saturday dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Younger kids may feel out of place due to the cozy, adult-leaning atmosphere, but well-behaved older kids can work for early dinners.
Best For
Better for: Classic bistro staples like steak frites, escargots, and mussels in a small, intimate setting that feels genuinely neighborhood-driven.
Skip if: You’re looking for a trendy, high-energy French hotspot or an expansive menu with lots of modern experimentation.