Upscale French bistro near Lincoln Center w/ great lunch & pre-theater options. Known for refined ambiance & superior food.
Experience refined French cuisine in a chic, upscale setting. This popular spot offers a delightful lunch and is praised for its ambiance, making it a great choice for pre-theater dining near Lincoln Center. While some note it can feel quiet late at night, its food is considered superior to nearby competitors, with a special mention for its 'joie de vivre' cocktail.
The French cuisine is generally well-regarded, with specific mentions of its suitability for lunch and as a pre-theater meal. Patrons have noted it as superior to competing establishments nearby. While some enjoy its refined atmosphere and offerings like oysters, charcuterie, and a notable cocktail ('joie de vivre'), there are mixed reviews suggesting a recent decline in quality for some.
"The 'joie de vivre' cocktail is specifically mentioned as a highlight. Other recommended items include sharable plates like oysters and charcuterie, and the prix-fixe menu is noted."
Customers generally have a positive view of the restaurant, praising its French cuisine and ambiance, particularly for pre-theater dining. However, some recent comments indicate a decline in quality or a temporary closure for renovations.
Important Note
There are conflicting reports regarding its current quality and operational status, with some recent comments suggesting a decline or a temporary closure for renovations. It may also feel quiet and deserted late at night and closes early.
"This comment states that Bar Boulud is currently closed, uncertain if it's permanent or temporary due to renovations."
Negative"Bar Boulud is identified as a favorite pre-Lincoln Center spot but is currently closed for renovation."
Neutral"Bar Boulud is mentioned as a potential dining spot near Lincoln Center."
Neutral"This commenter suggested going to Bar Boulud and then the Opera as a combined activity suitable for wearing a tuxedo."
Positive"Bar Boulud is mentioned as a restaurant where solo diners can book outdoor tables without restrictions."
Neutral"Bar Boulud is recommended for its clean, upscale yet approachable French atmosphere, offering an extensive wine list, cocktail specials, and various sharables like oysters and charcuterie, located a short walk from Lincoln Center. The commenter notes its strong French focus."
Positive"Bar Boulud is mentioned as a fine dining option closer to Lincoln Center."
Neutral"Bar Boulud is recommended as a dinner option near The Beacon."
Neutral"Author believes the food at Bar Boulud isn't particularly noteworthy and considers it inferior to Felice. The original poster had an outdoor reservation for Boulud."
Negative"Author states that Bar Boulud is currently terrible, expressing disappointment about its perceived decline in quality."
Negative"When suggesting Rampoldi as an alternative for a pre-opera meal, the author mentions Bar Boulud as a comparison point, without stating whether Rampoldi is better or worse than Bar Boulud."
Neutral"Author enjoys a specific drink called 'joie de vivre' at Bar Boulud. Otherwise, they consider Bar Boulud and Felice to be pretty much the same."
Neutral"Author finds Bar Boulud to be reliable though uninspiring. They note its cuisine is a bit more refined and interesting compared to Felice, which was another option being considered by the original poster."
Neutral"Considers Bar Boulud excellent."
Positive"Recommends Bar Boulud, mentioning its great $70 prix-fixe menu and suggests checking other Daniel Boulud restaurants."
Positive"Bar Boulud is a backup option if El Fish Marisquería doesn't work out."
Neutral"Food considered much better than competitors Cafe Fiorello and Luxembourg, but potential patrons should check closing times as it closes early."
Positive"Recommended over Cafe Fiorello but can feel cold and deserted late at night compared to Cafe Luxembourg."
Negative"A viable option alongside Cafe Luxembourg, suggesting checking the menu before deciding."
Neutral"Bar Boulud is recommended as a place that does a nice lunch."
Positive
