One of our favorite ways to warm up in the winter is with a piping, cheesy bowl of French Onion Soup. Whether you’re looking for something like the iconic Balthazar for a bowl of French Onion Soup or something a bit more low-key like local eatery Maison Kayser, here are some of our favorite renditions of this classic favorite in NYC.
La Bonne Soupe
PC: restaurantgirlThe phrase “La Bonne Soupe” translates to good life with health, wealth, and happiness, which is what you’ll find at this French bistro. Owners Jean-Paul and Monique Picot named the bistro after the avant garde comedy “La Bonne Soupe” which successfully ran in Paris for many years. Cozy up with a bowl of their soupe a l’Oignon and explore other classics like crepes, escargots, steak frites and more.
Balthazar
PC: Junah K.This iconic French bistro in the heart of Soho has been serving New Yorkers for over 20 years. Keith McNally and head Chef Shane McBride serve traditional french cuisine here, including everything from salads and soups to steak tartare and freshly baked bread. Our go-to here is their onion soup gratinee seasoned with garlic, thyme, salt and pepper, and of course, thick gruyere cheese.
Maison Kayser
PC: Maison KayserStepping into Maison Kayser is like stepping into a typical boulangerie in Paris. Eric Kayser started the chain in Paris back in 1996, and we’ve been fans ever since he opened the first NYC location in 2012. Here, you’ll find dough that sits for twelve hours before carefully being baked and an extra cheesy French Onion Soup prepared with their homemade baguettes.
The Odeon
PC: Michael HusseyAt The Odeon, another famed spot by Keith McNally, you’ll find comfort American food with French influences. Chef Vincent Nargi has been serving a fantastic version of French onion soup at this Tribeca eatery since 1980, so it comes as no surprise that it’s one of our favorites in the city.
Boucherie
PC: the skinny pigBoucherie is a stunning, French bistro located in the West Village brought to us by the restaurant group behind Omakase and Olio e Piu. Whether you go for a salad, sandwich or steak frites, make sure you have a bowl of their extra crispy French Onion Soup on your table.
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