Balthazar was my first nice restaurant in NYC. I had first dined here with two friends for the 2004 NYC Marathon, and was instantly entranced and bewitched. Ok, I’m being melodramatic. It was really neat. Howa ’bout that?

This place epitomizes Paris (I think). Even if it doesn’t, it should. It’s just gorgeous inside. Like Paris in the 1930’s. Or whatever. I’ve never been. Just go with me on this.

Balthazar has my 3rd favorite burger in NYC. It’s really simple and really delicious. FYI, my 1st favorite burger is at Emily and my 2nd favorite is at Saxon + Parole in the Bowery.

Another thing I always order here (besides the absolutely perfect Manhattan) is the chicken liver and foie gras mousse. It comes with onion jam and little toasts and the flavors are just out of this world.

I think Balthazar is NYC’s most beloved and popular restaurant. Not counting the super expensive Michelin star, $400 per person places. Balthazar is everyman’s fancy restaurant. I mean, it’s not cheap by any means. You’ll have to save up your shekels.

Upon exiting, I was chided by an employee “Sorry sir, there are no photos allowed. You can take pictures of yourself. Just not of the restaurant”. Instead of brazenly continue taking my final photo, I decided to be polite, drop my iPhone sheepishly to my side and leave with my head hung low, as if a store detective had caught me shoplifting and asked that I never return!

A silly rule, but one I can forgive, considering how truly great this place is. And as the stern employee who scolded me advised, they do apparently encourage selfies.

80 Spring St
New York, NY 10012
b/t Crosby St & Broadway
SoHo
(212) 965-1414
balthazarny.com

Bowl of COffee

Champagne Pick-Me-Up – Champagne, V.S. Cognac, Orange Juice and Grenadine – $16

CHICKEN LIVER AND FOIE GRAS MOUSSE with red onion confit and grilled country bread – $18.00

Steak Tartare (small) $21

Balthazar Cheeseburger