What should I order at Balthazar?
Balthazar
Steak Frites
One of the most frequently praised dishes in the reviews. It’s repeatedly described as delicious, perfectly cooked, juicy, and one of the best steaks people have had, with the fries also called great or on point.
French Onion Soup
Mentioned many times as a standout and even a must-have. Reviewers call it rich, flavorful, delicious, and outstanding, making it one of the most consistently recommended items.
Omelette
Recommended as a must-try breakfast item, with one reviewer saying the omelette and fries are essential and describing the restaurant’s breakfast as living up to its reputation.
Fries
Often mentioned alongside steak or omelettes and consistently described as tasty, great, thinly cut, or on point. They seem to be a reliable favorite side.
Tarte Tatin
Specifically singled out as something to try, with a reviewer explicitly recommending it after enjoying the rest of the meal.
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Thursday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 12 AM |
About Balthazar
Iconic French brasserie with steak frites, brunch & pastries in a classy space with red banquettes.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Balthazar known for?
Balthazar is best known for steak frites and onion soup, which reviewers repeatedly call standout dishes. The French brasserie setting in SoHo also gets mentioned often, along with fast, attentive service and a lively room that feels classic New York.
What dishes are most recommended at Balthazar?
Reviewers most often recommend the steak frites, onion soup, escargots, oysters, and the caramelized banana ricotta tart, with the Paris Brest and bouillabaisse also called out. Breakfast items like eggs Benedict, waffles with fresh berries, and the asparagus, leek, and sweet pea quiche are also praised for brunch.
What is the atmosphere like at Balthazar?
The atmosphere is described as buzzing, loud, cozy, and romantic, with a classic French brasserie feel and a historic SoHo setting. It works well for groups and tourists, but solo diners also report being seated well and treated attentively.
Is Balthazar good value, and what is the price range?
Balthazar is in the $50 to $100 range, and reviewers often say the meal feels worth the visit because of the quality of dishes like steak frites, short ribs, and dessert. The value is strongest if you want a full brasserie experience with strong service, though some note the menu is not especially wide.
Do you need a reservation at Balthazar, and what should you expect at peak times?
Yes, reservations are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and reviewers say walk-ins can face a 1 to 2 hour wait. The restaurant is especially busy at breakfast and dinner, so booking ahead is the safest way to avoid a long delay.
Is parking available at Balthazar?
Yes. Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Balthazar have vegetarian options?
Yes, Balthazar offers vegetarian options.
Is Balthazar kid-friendly?
Yes, Balthazar is good for kids.
Restaurants like Balthazar in New York
Why use AI food recommendations?
Skip the Menu
No need to trust waiters or get overwhelmed by the menu
Explained Choices
Provides context and explanations for why each dish is recommended
Find things to do & top restaurants in any city