0 Followers
Pardon My French
Master Critic Review
Pardon My French
8.3
A bustling, all-day French bistro that’s strongest when you lean classic—eggs at brunch, steak-frites at dinner, and a glass of something bright in between. The room runs loud and social, so it’s best for energy-forward meals where you want reliable French comfort over quiet refinement.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, Croque monsieur, French onion soup
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Classic French bistro staples in a high-energy East Village room.
Who should go: Brunch crews and groups who want a lively bistro.
When to visit: Weekday brunch or early dinner to dodge peak waits.
What to order: Steak frites, croque monsieur, French onion soup.
Insider tip: Keep it classic—one bistro main per person beats menu sprawl.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive, especially after 6pm. Rideshare or walking is strongly recommended.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but lean polished—this is more bistro-chic than ultra-casual.
Noise level: Loud and social—conversation is possible but expect raised voices during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of prime brunch windows
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several solid options including egg dishes, salads, soups, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with modifications, but not a vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some naturally gluten-free dishes, but no dedicated prep or labeling.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want energy and buzz. It’s better for daytime dates or confident, talkative pairings than quiet, intimate conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but timing matters. Arrive early for dinner or aim for off-peak brunch hours to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately. Brunch works better than dinner, but the noise level and crowd energy skew adult.
Best For
Better for: High-energy French bistro classics, brunch with friends, and social happy-hour-style meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet, romantic French dinner or refined, white-tablecloth service.