"The original Fouquet’s was founded in Paris in 1899. In the century since, outposts have opened in Cannes, Marrakech, and Abu Dhabi. Think of it as The Smith, but for billionaires. The New York location is hidden in the back of an ultra-pricey Tribeca hotel, and it tends to be populated by wealthy tourists, local penthouse dwellers, and neighborhood children who’ve developed a taste for foie gras. Decked out with parquet floors, crystal chandeliers, and red velvet chairs—half of which are occupied by Chanel handbags at any given time—the space is luxe and laid-back, not unlike a fancy department store. photo credit: Grace Harris This brasserie's French food is similarly upscale, and we regret to inform you that it’s entirely delicious. A naked plank of salmon with a petite side of spinach will run you a little over $50, and it’ll taste like buttery perfection. Good as most of the dishes are, however, we can’t bring ourselves to whole-heartedly recommend this spot. It isn't the restaurant's fault, but there’s something unsettling about a place where eight-year-olds snap their fingers at the waitstaff. Food Rundown photo credit: Bryan Kim Classic Beef Tartare What a lovely plate of meat. The tartare is heavily dressed, with a touch of heat from chili paste, and the tiniest cubes of comté. photo credit: Bryan Kim Broiled Faroe Island Salmon This salmon may look forlorn on its own, but it’s cooked to a pillowy-soft, melt-in-your-mouth medium-rare. On the side, you get a small pile of sautéed spinach." - Bryan Kim
