By: Amy Rosner By: Amy Rosner | December 10, 2021 | Food & Drink
Executive Chef Laëtitia Rouabah brings a wealth of knowledge of traditional French cooking, to a modernized Benoit, an upscale French bistro modeled after the Paris original.
In 2013, critically-acclaimed chef, Alain Ducasse, took over Allard, one of the few remaining authentic bistros in Paris, known for its generations of female chefs at the helm. Ducasse hand-selected Laëtitia to carry on the legacy as Executive Chef.
For three years, she brought her personal touch to the establishment while still honoring Allard’s rich heritage and identity.
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Currently, as Executive Chef at Benoit, Laëtitia stays true to the spirit of quintessential bistro fare, focusing on using fresh market ingredients and utilizing sophisticated techniques to showcase the best of French classics.
Unlike her predecessors, Laëtitia brings a more contemporary flair to her menu, drawing inspiration from New York’s diverse background to create familiar yet unexpected flavors.
Below are the most fabulous French restaurants in NYC, according to this culinary guru.
155 W 51st St, Manhattan/Website
I think Le Bernardin is the best French restaurant in the city - Chef Eric Ripert is a dear friend of mine and it is always a pleasure to visit him. I always start with the Tuna, foie gras, and baguette. So delicious.
241 W Broadway, Manhattan/Website
Frenchette is a fantastic bistro with delicious French fare. I always go for their Hors D’oeuvres selection, like the Brouillade eggs and escargot.
948 1st Ave, Manhattan/Website
This restaurant has one of the best pied de Cochon in town, I really appreciate their rustic and authentic cuisine.
80 Spring St, Manhattan/Website
Balthazar fully embodies the ambiance of a French Brasserie. My go-to is the grilled Chicken paillard - I'm such a fan of Keith McNally and his story!
380 Lafayette St, Manhattan/Website
Lafayette has great Brunch items (especially all the viennoiseries), but this restaurant's decor is truly my favorite part of dining here. They have a very inviting outdoor setup - l loved sitting on the terrace all throughout the summer!
249 Park Ave S, Manhattan/Website
I love stopping in here on my way back from Union Market. I go to L’express - it's the perfect stop for a burger!
Photography by: Dana Devolk
