Timeless NOLA-inspired charm w/ outstanding oysters & absinthe-focused cocktails.
Molly Fitzpatrick reviews Maison Premiere, a Williamsburg establishment that has maintained its charm and quality for over a decade, offering a timeless New Orleans-inspired experience with exceptional cocktails and a standout raw bar.
This Williamsburg gem transports you to the French Quarter with its timeless New Orleans-inspired ambiance and exceptional cocktails. Decade-old, it maintains its charm as a premier date spot, offering a sophisticated experience with a standout raw bar and a curated selection of absinthe.
The menu shines with its focus on seafood, especially a highly recommended raw bar featuring a wide variety of oysters from both coasts. The cocktail program is a major draw, with many praising their expertly crafted drinks and absinthe selection. Some specific dishes like the Bay Scallop Crudo and Montauk Shrimp Pasta receive high marks, though the Lobster Roll has been noted as a dish to avoid.
"The oysters and the raw bar selections are consistently highlighted as must-tries. The Bay Scallop Crudo and Montauk Shrimp Pasta are also recommended for their unique flavors."
Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its romantic ambiance, excellent cocktails, and high-quality seafood, particularly the oysters. While generally very positive, some find it on the pricier side.
Important Note
Some users suggest that the restaurant can be on the expensive side, and one review noted that the martini's olives were mushy.
"This recommendation is considered fantastic, but it's noted that the date should enjoy oysters and absinthe."
Positive"This user believes Maison Premiere is too expensive for a first date."
Negative"This place is recommended, but another user commented that it might be too expensive for a first date."
Neutral"The author rated Maison Premiere a perfect 10.0 overall, with high scores for drinks, vibe, and food. They particularly enjoyed the Yellow Parrot cocktail, calling it a favorite, and praised the outstanding oysters and cherrystone clams."
Positive"Maison Premiere is listed as a recommended restaurant."
Neutral"Maison Premiere is recommended."
Positive"Maison Premiere is recommended."
Positive"Maison Premiere is recommended."
Positive"This comment sarcastically noted that tableside cocktail service at Maison Premiere should only take forty minutes."
Neutral"Maison Premier was identified as a top choice for oysters and advised booking in advance."
Positive"Maison Premiere was suggested as a place for oysters and cocktails, with an emphasis on their tableside cocktail service."
Neutral"Maison Premiere was recommended for oysters and cocktails, suggesting it as a precursor to dinner at St Anselm."
Positive"The commenter adds that the back garden can be quite romantic if a table is available there."
Positive"The commenter suggests trying the 'Old King Cole' drink if the diner enjoys dry martinis, noting it's a great tableside experience."
Positive"Following a recommendation, the commenter booked a reservation in the garden."
Positive"The Oyster Bar option is for a small bar within the dining room, not the main horseshoe bar. The commenter recommends requesting the main bar or a table in the garden for a better experience, based on their experience working there."
Positive"The commenter prefers the cocktail bar side and recommends any bar over tables, emphasizing the fun experience. Sitting at tables makes it feel like just another restaurant."
Positive"The commenter prefers sitting at the bar to watch the bartenders make drinks. Alternatively, a table in the back garden offers a quieter experience."
Neutral"Maison Premiere was mentioned by the commenter."
Neutral"Includes Maison Premiere on a categorized list of restaurants."
Positive
