Raoul's
French restaurant · SoHo
180 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Highlights
Since 1975, Raoul’s has been Soho’s no-nonsense French bistro with a cult-fave peppercorn burger, classic steak au poivre, and buzzing, intimate vibe.
Since 1975, Raoul’s has been Soho’s no-nonsense French bistro with a cult-fave peppercorn burger, classic steak au poivre, and buzzing, intimate vibe.
"The burger at Raoul's is unlike any other on this list—because every inch of the patty is encrusted with black peppercorns. If you like black pepper, you'll love this thing. If you don't, you'll still probably enjoy it. The burger (there are only 12 available each night at the bar) comes topped with creamy St. Andre cheese, in addition to cornichons and watercress, and the whole thing is intensely buttery. The fries that come on the side are also perfectly crisp and salty, and you should dip them in a side of au poivre sauce." - will hartman, bryan kim, neha talreja, willa moore, kenny yang
"Nearly 50 years after this French bistro opened in Soho, it’s still not easy to get a reservation. The decor is charmingly eclectic, including tin ceilings and walls, plus a jarringly bright fish tank that divides the dining room. The same goes for the clientele. Squeeze into a white-tableclothed two-top (or better yet, sit at the bar) and you’re equally likely to find yourself beside decades-long regulars, sceney TikTok youth, or Robert De Niro. Only 12 of the peppercorn-encrusted, watercress-topped burgers are served each night, but the steak au poivre and frites are great, too." - molly fitzpatrick, willa moore, will hartman, bryan kim, sonal shah
"This Soho bistro has garnered a passionate following for its burger: The peppercorn-crusted Pat LaFrieda brisket blend is seared in butter, topped with creamy Saint-Andre cheese, watercress, onions and cornichons, and served on a challah bun from Amy’s Bread. Duck fat fries and a side of cream and cognac sauce for fry dunking accompany it. A dozen or so patties are available nightly at the bar, but it’s also available on the weekend brunch menu. Don’t miss the terrific range of bistro standards that comprise the rest of the menu, like pâté, frisee with lardons and a poached egg, or steak tartare." - Melissa McCart
"This off-menu one-per-barstool-per-night is one of the most coveted and toughest burgers to get during dinner. Yet for brunch, that same burger is accessible as it’s on the menu for anyone to order. Raoul’s Burger au poivre features St. André cheese, pickles, and fries for $32." - Robert Sietsema, Melissa McCart, Emma Orlow
"When Raoul’s is on, it’s the exact place in Manhattan where you’d want to be eating. The decades-old Soho bistro regularly hosts high-rollers and famous folks alike (and is the subject of a soon-to-run documentary on what makes it so special). In addition to it’s one-of-a-kind ambiance, the restaurant is known for its legendary burgers and steak au poivre." - Melissa McCart
