ZipPicks Awards
Best French in Soho
Best Bakery in Soho
Best Romantic Restaurants in Soho
Best Pet Friendly Restaurants in Soho
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Soho
Master Critic Review
Balthazar Bakery
8.9
Opened in 1997 by restaurateur Keith McNally, Balthazar is a benchmark SoHo brasserie for towering seafood platters, textbook steak frites, and one of the city’s most copied onion soups. Locals and visitors use it for everything from power breakfasts to late-night suppers in a room that still feels like old downtown New York.
Must-Try Dishes:
French onion soup gratinée, Steak frites, Seafood plateau
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Classic SoHo French brasserie with serious seafood, steak frites, and buzz.
Who should go: Diners wanting iconic, lively French brasserie energy.
When to visit: Weekday breakfasts, brunch, or early dinners before peak rush.
What to order: Onion soup gratinée, steak frites, a shared seafood plateau.
Insider tip: Book weekday breakfast or mid-morning to experience the room without the dinner crush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in SoHo; expect metered spots to be limited. Several paid garages sit within 1–2 blocks, but no valet is offered.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most diners lean polished. Jackets not required.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch and peak dinner. Conversation is doable but not hushed.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though prime noon hours can build a short line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options including salads, pastas, and sides; not a fully dedicated menu but workable.
Vegan options: Limited; most dishes contain dairy or butter, though some salads and vegetable sides can be modified.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free choices (seafood, steaks, salads), but no specialized prep environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm brasserie lighting, iconic room, and polished service create an instantly charming backdrop. Go during off-peak hours for slightly quieter energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, especially for breakfast, late lunch, or off-peak dinner. Evenings and brunch almost always require a reservation; try walking in early for bar or café seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle a lively, bustling room. High chairs aren't common, and the menu skews adult, but staff is accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere, classic brasserie hits, and all-day versatility—from power breakfast to late-night dining—surpass many nearby French spots.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, intimate meal, strictly modern French cooking, or extensive vegan/gluten-free accommodations.