A hidden garden oasis serving stellar oysters & inventive cocktails w/ a NOLA vibe. A decade-strong Williamsburg gem.
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.
Step into a New Orleans-inspired oasis in Brooklyn, where a lush garden patio and expertly crafted cocktails set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. This long-standing favorite has charmed patrons for over a decade with its timeless ambiance and a commitment to classic flavors. From the extensive raw bar brimming with oysters to the inventive absinthe-based drinks, every detail is curated for a sophisticated palate.
The culinary focus is on seafood, with a renowned raw bar featuring a wide selection of East and West Coast oysters. The cocktail program is equally celebrated, with a strong emphasis on classic absinthe-based drinks and tableside preparation for some cocktails. While most dishes receive high praise, the lobster roll has been noted as a disappointment by some.
"The raw bar, particularly the oysters, is a highly recommended highlight. Customers also rave about the creative cocktails, with specific mentions of the 'Old King Cole' drink and absinthe-based concoctions. The steak tartare and Montauk shrimp pasta also receive positive mentions."
Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its exceptional ambiance, particularly the enchanting garden, and its high-quality seafood and cocktails. It's frequently recommended as a top spot for dates and special occasions.
Important Note
One commenter found the restaurant to be too expensive for a first date, and another noted that the lobster roll was disappointing due to an imbalance of brioche to filling.
"Maison Premiere is mentioned as a restaurant with an impressive aesthetic."
Positive"During an anniversary celebration at Maison Premiere, the commenter reported being accidentally groped by patrons at an adjacent table due to the tables being seated side-by-side and the neighbors being overly affectionate."
Negative"This user recommended Maison Premiere for its warm and cozy atmosphere with a New Orleans French Quarter twist."
Positive"Suggested Maison Premiere as a place to get a drink while waiting for a table at Four Horsemen, mentioning it's usually accessible for standing room."
Positive"Recommended Maison Premiere as a top choice for a drink while waiting, noting its proximity to Four Horsemen."
Positive"This commenter recommended Maison Premier for drinks and food, detailing several dishes like bay scallops, lobster roll, steak tartare, oysters, and a seafood tower, all of which they found great. They also praised the bar, cocktails, and desserts, advising to talk to the bartender for drink recommendations."
Positive"This commenter suggested Maison Premier for a drink."
Positive"Madison Premiere is recommended."
Positive"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