Why Le Rivage NYC is the Must-Visit French Restaurant on Restaurant Row

Beatriz Fernandez
Sep 26
2 min read

If you’re looking for an authentic French restaurant in NYC, there’s one spot that has stood the test of time: Le Rivage. Located on the famous Restaurant Row in the Theater District, this family-owned gem has been serving French cuisine for over 40 years. On my recent visit, I finally got to experience why it’s such a beloved part of New York City’s dining scene.

Click here to view our featured instagram reel at Le Rivage: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOhF5sZkUl2/?igsh=MXBiNXdsbW8ydHU3Mw==

Starters: French Onion Soup and Salade Pépé

We started with two French classics that immediately set the mood for the evening. The French onion soup was everything it should be, bubbling hot, rich in flavor, and topped with a golden layer of melted cheese that cracked beautifully with each spoonful. Alongside it, the Salade Pépé offered something lighter and refreshing, the perfect contrast before moving into heartier dishes.

Dinner: French Onion Burger and Beef Bourguignon

The highlight of the night was without a doubt the French Onion Burger with Fries. This dish is a two-time NYC Wine & Food Festival award winner, and after one bite, it was clear why. Juicy, flavorful, and loaded with caramelized onions and cheese, it was easily one of the best burgers I’ve ever tried. And the fries? Hands down the best I’ve had in New York City, crispy, golden, and addictive. We also ordered the Beef Bourguignon, a French comfort food classic. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, slow-braised in red wine with rich, savory flavors that felt like a warm hug on a plate.

Dessert: Crème Brûlée and Molten Chocolate Cake

No French dining experience is complete without dessert, and Le Rivage delivered two showstoppers. The crème brûlée had the perfect caramelized sugar crust over silky custard, while the molten chocolate cake came warm, rich, and gooey in the center. Both were the ideal way to end the meal.

What Sets Le Rivage Apart on Restaurant Row

What makes Le Rivage so special isn’t just the food, it’s the history and passion behind it. Chef Paul and his family have been proudly running the restaurant for decades, carrying on a tradition of authentic French cooking right in the heart of Manhattan. With its warm hospitality, timeless menu, and prime location near Broadway, Le Rivage is more than a meal—it’s an experience.