Hole-in-the-wall French bistro w/ authentic Paris vibe & consistently great classic dishes. A true LIC gem.
This Long Island City gem offers a classic French bistro experience reminiscent of old-school New York. Patrons rave about the authentic atmosphere, friendly staff, and consistently high-quality dishes. It's a beloved spot for its value and reliable execution of French favorites.
This French bistro is celebrated for its classic dishes, particularly its steak frites, which has been called the best deal in NYC. Other frequently praised items include their French onion soup, cassoulet (on weekends), hanger steak, and martinis. The bread, salads, coq au vin, and desserts also receive positive mentions. The restaurant is cash or Amex only.
"The steak frites is highly recommended and called the best deal in NYC. Other popular choices include French onion soup, cassoulet (weekends), hanger steak, and martinis."
Customers have a long-standing affection for this restaurant, consistently praising its quality and authentic French atmosphere over many years. The service is noted as friendly, and the overall experience is highly regarded.
Important Note
The restaurant is cash or Amex only.
"Tournesol in Long Island City is recommended for its delicious hanger steak and martinis."
Positive"Tournesol in Long Island City serves steak frites."
Positive"Tournesol in LIC is described as a good restaurant with reasonable prices, though perhaps with a more limited menu than desired."
Positive"The original poster expresses gratitude for the recommendation of Tournesol and its affordable price for French onion soup."
Positive"Tournesol is recommended for French onion soup, noted as being around $8.50."
Positive"The user has been going to Tournesol in Long Island City for over a decade and consistently finds their quality to be excellent and unwavering."
Positive"Tournesol is the commenter's favorite restaurant in LIC, offering very good French food."
Positive"Tournesol in LIC is described as an amazing, homey French restaurant that feels like Paris, though it's unsure if they serve offal dishes."
Positive"Tournesol in LIC was recommended."
Neutral"The commenter noted that Tournesol, a French restaurant in Long Island City, still accepts only Amex or cash as of September 2025 and questioned why this is common among French restaurants."
Neutral"The user states that the best steak deal in NYC is the steak frites at Tournesol in LIC."
Positive"This user jokingly comments on having pancakes at Tournesol."
Positive"This user reports having pancakes there recently and notes that the restaurant accepts American Express and cash."
Positive"This commenter states Tournesol is great and reminds others that it is cash only."
Positive"This commenter enjoyed Tournesol when they worked in LIC from 2000-2011 and was happy to hear it is still open."
Positive"This commenter praised Tournesol as a lovely little gem that is not mentioned enough."
Positive"This commenter expressed fondness for Tournesol and wondered why they hadn't been in a decade."
Positive"This commenter suggested Tournesol in LIC as a place that captures the old Les Halles vibe."
Neutral"Tournesol is mentioned as a French restaurant."
Positive"Tournesol is recommended for French cuisine."
Positive
