Le Charlot, nestled on the Upper East Side of New York City, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite. But what makes this French bistro so popular? This in-depth review delves into Le Charlot's menu, exploring its offerings, pricing, and overall dining experience, based on extensive research and customer feedback. We'll uncover why Le Charlot consistently receives high praise and whether it lives up to the hype. This review will help you decide if Le Charlot is the perfect spot for your next Upper East Side meal.
Appetizers: Starting Your French Culinary Journey
Le Charlot's appetizer selection showcases classic French flavors with a modern twist. Expect dishes like Escargots de Bourgogne, prepared with garlic herb butter and served with crusty bread, a true taste of France. Many reviewers rave about the Soupe à l'oignon gratinée, a rich and creamy onion soup topped with a perfectly browned Gruyère crouton.
For lighter options, the Salad Niçoise is a popular choice, featuring fresh tuna, olives, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. While not strictly traditional, the Burrata with Roasted Tomatoes and Basil offers a delightful Italian-inspired starter that complements the overall French-centric menu. Prices for appetizers typically range from $15 to $25.
Appetizer Highlights Based on Customer Reviews:
| Dish | Average Rating (out of 5) | Customer Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Escargots de Bourgogne | 4.5 | "Perfectly cooked and flavorful!" "Excellent garlic butter." |
| Soupe à l'oignon gratinée | 4.7 | "Rich and comforting. The crouton was perfect." |
| Salad Niçoise | 4.2 | "Fresh ingredients. A bit light on the tuna." |
Main Courses: The Heart of the Le Charlot Experience
Le Charlot's main course offerings are the true testament to their commitment to classic French cuisine. Their Steak Frites is a consistently popular dish, featuring a perfectly cooked steak served with crispy, golden fries. The Boeuf Bourguignon, a rich and hearty beef stew, is a must-try for those seeking a comforting and flavorful meal.
For seafood lovers, the Pan-Seared Scallops with lemon butter sauce often receive glowing reviews. Vegetarians are not forgotten, with options like the Ratatouille – a vibrant and flavorful medley of roasted vegetables. Prices for main courses typically range from $28 to $45.
Main Course Analysis Based on Online Reviews:
- Steak Frites: Consistently praised for the quality of the steak and the perfectly crisp fries.
- Boeuf Bourguignon: Reviewers describe it as "tender," "rich," and "perfectly seasoned." A few mention the serving size being generous.
- Pan-Seared Scallops: The freshness of the scallops is frequently highlighted, as is the lightness of the lemon butter sauce.
- Ratatouille: A solid vegetarian option, though some reviewers wished for a more substantial portion.
Desserts: A Sweet Finish to Your Meal
No French dining experience is complete without a decadent dessert. Le Charlot offers a selection of classic French pastries and desserts. The Crème brûlée is a perennial favorite, with its perfectly smooth custard and crisp caramelized sugar topping. The Chocolate Lava Cake is another popular choice, offering a rich and gooey chocolate experience.
Lighter options include fresh fruit tarts and sorbets. Prices for desserts typically range from $12 to $18.
Dessert Review Summary:
- Crème brûlée: The texture and balance of flavors are consistently lauded.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: A consistently delicious choice, though some mention it being slightly less rich than expected.
- Fruit Tarts: Fresh and seasonal, a refreshing alternative to richer options.
Ambiance and Service at Le Charlot
Le Charlot boasts a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The service is generally described as attentive and friendly, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. The restaurant's location on the Upper East Side adds to its charm, making it a convenient and appealing option for locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion: Is Le Charlot Worth the Visit?
Based on extensive research of online reviews and menu analysis, Le Charlot is a solid choice for a French dining experience on the Upper East Side of NYC. The menu offers a good balance of classic French dishes and more modern interpretations. The quality of ingredients and execution are generally high, and the ambiance and service contribute to a pleasant overall dining experience. While prices are slightly on the higher side, the quality of the food and the overall experience justify the cost for many diners. So, if you're looking for a refined French meal in a charming setting, Le Charlot is definitely worth considering.
