Hole-in-the-wall French bistro w/ authentic Parisian vibe. Known for legendary steak frites & cassoulet.
This long-standing French bistro in Long Island City is celebrated for its authentic Parisian atmosphere and consistently excellent food. It's a beloved spot recommended for its classic French dishes, including standout steak frites and a rich cassoulet, making it a go-to for both locals and those seeking a taste of traditional French dining.
This French restaurant is highly praised for its traditional offerings, with particular acclaim for its steak frites, often cited as the best in NYC. Other recommended dishes include salads, bread, soups, fish, coq au vin, and a weekend cassoulet. Desserts and pancakes are also mentioned positively. The restaurant is noted for its old-school, unpretentious vibe and great value.
"Standout dishes include the steak frites (hailed as the best steak deal in NYC), steak au poivre, cassoulet (weekends only), salads, bread, soups, fish, coq au vin, and desserts. Pancakes are also mentioned positively."
Customers rave about this classic French bistro, praising its authentic atmosphere and delicious, well-executed traditional dishes. The high regard for the food and overall dining experience is evident in numerous positive comments.
Important Note
The restaurant is cash-only, or at least Amex and cash are accepted, which has been noted as a common practice among French restaurants. It is located in Long Island City, not Manhattan, though easily accessible.
"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"This commenter recommended Tournesol in LIC, noting that the staff is actually French."
Positive"This user has dined at Tournesol multiple times and praises their bread, salads, fish, coq au vin, and desserts."
Positive"Tournesol in LIC was described as an old-school, unpretentious restaurant with great value, though it might slightly exceed the user's initial budget."
Positive"This user expresses strong affection for Tournesol and is glad it's being mentioned. They recommend trying their steak for two if you enjoy their steak au poivre."
Positive"Tournesol in Long Island City was recommended for its good cassoulet on weekends at a nice price, noting it's not in Manhattan but easily accessible."
Positive"Tournesol in LIC was recommended as a spot to impress an out-of-town foodie, described as a hole-in-the-wall establishment. The Infatuation confirmed they feature Tournesol in their guide to the best steak frites in NYC."
Positive
