Best French Fries Restaurants in East Village (10003)
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Veselka
A decades-old East Village diner with fries as a flawless comfort-food side.
Notable Picks
#1
Veselka
8.8
An East Village institution where fries shine as the ideal partner to pierogi, goulash, and late-night diner plates. The fries are reliably crisp, lightly salted, and served fast even during the constant rush. Come hungry for comfort food and stay for the neighborhood energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy French Fries with house-made dips, Short Rib Pierogi, Ukrainian Breakfast Plate
What makes it special: A decades-old East Village diner with fries as a flawless comfort-food side.
8.6
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Birthday & Celebration Central
A high-energy French brasserie that leans into steakhouse indulgence with big bistro classics and a polished raw bar. The room feels like a Parisian grand café dropped into Union Square, making it equally good for long lunches or celebratory dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, French onion soup, Mussels marinières
What makes it special: A classic all-day French brasserie with steakhouse firepower and massive local validation.
#3
L'Express
8.4
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Business Lunch Power Players
A timeless Lyonnaise-style bistro that’s been feeding Gramercy late into the night for decades, with a menu full of comforting French standards. Expect steady execution, old-school charm, and a crowd that treats it like their second living room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, Soupe à l’oignon gratinée, Roast chicken with jus
What makes it special: A true NYC French bistro institution that stays open when you need it most.
8.3
A low-key, old-school diner just off Union Square that turns out dependable, no-fuss fries with a crunchy exterior and fluffy center. It’s a straightforward fry experience that feels like New York in the ’70s—in the best way. Perfect for a quick bite or a late-night craving without the scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic French Fries, Village Burger with fried onion, Matzo Ball Soup
What makes it special: Classic diner fries at a rare Broadway old-timer.
8.1
A preserved slice of old New York with stained-glass charm and a sturdy American bar menu. The kitchen focuses on dependable pub classics that pair well with a pint, and the room’s lived-in patina is half the appeal. Great for low-stakes meals that still feel distinctly local.
Must-Try Dishes:
Old Town Burger, Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken Pot Pie
What makes it special: Historic bar atmosphere with reliably good American pub fare.