Time-traveling, old-school French bistro. Cozy, civilized vibe. Authentic, classic dishes. A true gem.
Step back in time at this beloved old-school French bistro, a family-run gem that has been a consistent favorite for its authentic atmosphere and classic dishes. From its cozy, civilized ambiance to its expertly prepared French fare, this restaurant offers a truly transportive dining experience reminiscent of a bygone era. It's a place where tradition and taste come together, making it a standout choice for those seeking a genuine French culinary journey.
This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic, classic French cuisine, with particular acclaim for dishes such as steak au poivre, beef bourguignon, bouillabaisse, and cassoulet. Sweetbreads are frequently mentioned as an exceptional and hard-to-find delicacy. While most feedback is positive, some comments suggest that certain traditional offal dishes, while available, may not appeal to all palates.
"Diners highly recommend the steak au poivre, beef bourguignon, and cassoulet. The bouillabaisse was once lauded as the best in the city, and sweetbreads are considered an exceptional and rare treat."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the restaurant for its authentic, old-school French charm and civilized atmosphere, often describing it as a step back in time. The food generally receives positive feedback, with specific dishes being highlighted for their excellence.
Important Note
Recent comments indicate that Chez Napoleon has permanently closed.
"Replying to recommendations, this user expressed gratitude and shared their weariness with the hype of fancy restaurants, preferring a quiet, well-prepared meal without elaborate ambiance or ingredients."
Neutral"In response to a request for recommendations, this user suggested La Boite en Bois as a classic old-school bistro and listed others like Tout Va Bien, Pascalou, and Cafe du Soleil, while also critiquing trendy, expensive, and over-produced 'neo-bistro' dishes and praising the unpretentious, authentic nature of Chez Napoleon."
Positive"This user commented that Hell's Kitchen, where Chez Napoleon was located, is now filled with overpriced establishments."
Negative"This commenter sought recommendations for traditional, non-overpriced French bistros in NYC, mentioning specific dishes like French onion soup, bouillabaisse, escargot, duck confit, and foie gras, and found places like Balthazar too crowded and expensive."
Neutral"This user expressed devastation at the closure of Chez Napoleon, calling it their favorite restaurant in the city."
Negative"The commenter noted that the closure of Chez Napoleon was not recent news, as the proprietors had announced it earlier to allow regulars to say goodbye."
Neutral"This user expressed their fondness for Chez Napoleon."
Positive"This commenter praised Chez Napoleon for its great, classic, cozy, and old-school vibes, noting it was a perfect pre-theater option and that newer French restaurants often fail to naturally replicate its atmosphere."
Positive"A short comment affirming that they ate at Chez Napoleon and found it to be a good place."
Positive"Responding to a question about who dined at Chez Napoleon, this user stated it was always full when they visited and was their go-to pre-theater spot, speculating the family may have gotten older."
Positive"In response to the closure, this commenter agreed that Chez Napoleon was the best among the remaining old-school French places and praised its great atmosphere."
Negative"The commenter expressed sadness over the closure of Chez Napoleon, noting the scarcity of old-school, unpretentious French restaurants in NYC that serve classic dishes like sweetbread meuniere or moules frites."
Negative"A brief comment expressing fondness for the restaurant."
Positive"This user lamented the closure of Chez Napoleon, describing it as an old-school French restaurant that served good food, including liver, kidneys, sweetbreads, and rabbit."
Negative"The commenter shared a link to an obituary for Chez Napoleon, expressing sadness over its closure and its uniqueness as a restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, which they feel has become a 'hollowed-out shell'."
Negative"Chez Napoleon is closing permanently on the 31st."
Neutral"Chez Napoleon is mentioned as a dining option."
Positive"This user recommended Chez Napoleon, stating they have a great croissant."
Positive"This user recommended Chez Napoleon, stating they have a great croissant."
Positive"The commenter suggested Chez Napoléon, describing it as intimate, not flashy, with a serious wine list, excellent French food, and experienced in pre-theater dining."
Positive
