TLDR
Classic UES French brasserie with a quintessential Parisian vibe. Renowned for top-tier steak frites, perfect martinis, and elite people-watching.
Details
Experience a touch of Paris on the Upper East Side at this classic, upscale French brasserie known for its authentic, old-school atmosphere [1]. Highly regarded for its traditional menu and sophisticated vibe, it is a preferred destination for lunch, museum-goers near The Frick, and those seeking excellent people-watching from the bar [2], [3], [4]. Guests consistently praise the high-quality fare, ranging from exceptional steak frites to house-made bread [5], [6].
Food Overview
This establishment excels in traditional French bistro staples, with standout praise for their steak frites, steak au poivre, and French onion soup [1], [2], [3]. Customers also specifically recommend the martinis, while the bread and fries—often cited as some of the best in the city—receive universal acclaim [4], [5].
Highlights / Recommended
"Signature recommendations include the steak frites, steak au poivre, and the highly-regarded French onion soup [1], [2], [3]. Patrons also suggest trying the escargot and pairing their meal with one of the restaurant's excellent martinis [4], [5]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •bread(2)
- •fries(2)
- •steak frites(2)
- •escargot(2)
Customer Sentiment
Patrons consistently express high satisfaction with the restaurant, frequently highlighting its professional, attentive service and sophisticated atmosphere [1], [2]. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with diners describing it as a delicious, classy destination perfect for varied occasions [3].
Caveats
While largely celebrated, some diners note the restaurant is part of a competitive local scene for French classics, with nearby alternatives like La Goulue sharing a similar demographic and menu profile [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ORSAY
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Bots Booking Up Reservations Is This A Things For
"The restaurant is located on the Upper East Side and is recommended for their steak frites and escargot."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Steak Frites In Nyc Non
"Claims they have the best fries in NYC and excellent bread."
PositiveFrom post: Does Anybody Know What Barrestaurant This Could Be
"This commenter suggested Orsay as an alternative with a Parisian cafe feel, mentioning steak frites and escargot."
NeutralFrom post: A Couple Recommendations Please
"Orsay was suggested for lunch near The Frick."
PositiveFrom post: A Couple Recommendations Please
"Orsay was recommended as a dining option near The Frick, known for its escargot and steak frites."
PositiveFrom post: Steak Recs
"Cafe Orsay on the UES is recommended for its nice steak au poivre and excellent martinis."
PositiveFrom post: A List Of French Onion Soups Ive Had Recently
"This user asks if the commenter has tried La Goulue's French onion soup, noting it's in the same area and crowd as Orsay."
NeutralFrom post: A List Of French Onion Soups Ive Had Recently
"Orsay is recommended for French onion soup."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Take Your Mentor To Lunch
"This user suggested Orsay as an old-school classy place suitable for an 'older' mentor (45+)."
PositiveFrom post: Near The Met
"Orsay was recommended as a restaurant near the Met."
PositiveFrom post: Lunch Ues
"This commenter listed Orsay as a dining option on the UES."
PositiveFrom post: Lunch Ues
"This commenter stated that Orsay is delicious, recommending it for lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Lunch Ues
"This commenter confirmed that Orsay was indeed the restaurant the original poster was thinking of."
PositiveFrom post: Lunch Ues
"This commenter suggested Orsay as a potential French bistro the original poster might have forgotten."
PositiveFrom post: Fun Place To Peoplewatch While Dining Solo
"The bar at Orsay was recommended specifically for its excellent people-watching opportunities."
PositiveFrom post: Fun Place To Peoplewatch While Dining Solo
"Orsay is noted to have a solid bar setup and is usually good for people-watching."
PositiveFrom post: What Current Nyc Restaurant Captures The Old Les
"This commenter suggested Cafe Luxembourg and Orsay as places that capture the old Les Halles vibe."
NeutralFrom post: What Current Nyc Restaurant Captures The Old Les
"This commenter suggested Orsay."
NeutralFrom post: What Current Nyc Restaurant Captures The Old Les
"This commenter suggested Orsay as a place that captures the old Les Halles vibe."
Neutral