Blue Ribbon Brasserie is a New York City institution, known for its upscale yet approachable atmosphere and consistently delicious food. This in-depth review will explore its menu, ambiance, service, and overall experience, drawing from various sources to give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes this brasserie a favorite among locals and tourists alike. We’ll examine customer reviews, analyze its menu offerings, and discuss its place within the competitive New York City dining scene.
The Blue Ribbon Brasserie Menu: A Classic with a Twist
The Blue Ribbon Brasserie menu is a testament to classic French brasserie fare, elevated with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a touch of modern flair. It’s a menu designed to please a wide range of palates, offering something for everyone, from the discerning foodie to the casual diner.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section showcases a variety of options, ranging from traditional French onion soup to more modern creations. Many reviewers praise the escargots, cooked to perfection and bursting with garlicky flavor. The steak tartare, another classic, is consistently mentioned as a highlight, prepared with meticulous attention to detail and the freshest ingredients. For those seeking something lighter, the salads are a popular choice, often featuring seasonal vegetables and creative dressings.
- Popular Appetizers: Escargots, Steak Tartare, French Onion Soup, Oysters (seasonal)
- Price Range: $18-$30
Main Courses: A Symphony of Flavors
The main courses at Blue Ribbon Brasserie are the heart of the experience. From succulent rotisserie chicken to expertly prepared steaks and seafood dishes, there's a clear focus on quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques. The rotisserie chicken is a perennial favorite, praised for its juicy meat and crispy skin. The steak frites, another classic brasserie staple, is often described as perfectly cooked and generously portioned. Seafood dishes, when available, showcase the freshest catches, prepared simply to let the natural flavors shine.
- Popular Main Courses: Rotisserie Chicken, Steak Frites, Bouillabaisse (seasonal), Seafood Platter (market price)
- Price Range: $30-$60
Desserts: A Sweet Finale
The dessert menu offers a selection of classic French pastries and desserts, perfectly complementing the savory dishes. The chocolate mousse is often cited as a standout, rich and decadent without being overly sweet. The crème brûlée is another popular choice, with its perfectly crisp caramelized sugar topping and creamy custard base.
- Popular Desserts: Chocolate Mousse, Crème Brûlée, Profiteroles, seasonal fruit tarts
- Price Range: $15-$20
Blue Ribbon Brasserie Reviews: What Do Customers Say?
Online reviews consistently paint a positive picture of Blue Ribbon Brasserie. Many reviewers praise the high quality of the food, the attentive service, and the vibrant atmosphere. The classic French brasserie ambiance is often highlighted, with mentions of the warm lighting, comfortable seating, and lively buzz of conversation.
While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention that the price point can be relatively high, reflecting the quality of ingredients and location. Occasionally, service inconsistencies are noted, though these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.
Example Review Snippets:
- "The steak frites were cooked to perfection! The atmosphere was fantastic, and the service was attentive."
- "A bit pricey, but worth it for a special occasion. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was wonderful."
- "The escargots were amazing! I'll definitely be back."
The Blue Ribbon Brasserie Experience: More Than Just a Meal
Blue Ribbon Brasserie is more than just a restaurant; it's a destination. The experience encompasses the food, the service, the ambiance, and the overall feeling of being transported to a classic Parisian brasserie in the heart of New York City. It's a place for celebrations, romantic dinners, or simply enjoying a high-quality meal in a sophisticated setting.
Conclusion: A Worthy Contender in NYC's Culinary Scene
Blue Ribbon Brasserie holds its own amongst NYC's top restaurants. Its consistently high-quality food, classic ambiance, and generally excellent service make it a worthy destination for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. While the prices reflect its upscale nature, the overall quality justifies the cost for many diners. If you're looking for a taste of classic French brasserie fare in a stylish setting, Blue Ribbon Brasserie is definitely worth considering.
