Chez Josephine

Photo of Chez Josephine

Located in New York, New York

Address: 414 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036, United States

Phone: +1 212-594-1925

Rating: 4.3

Services

  • Outdoor seating
  • Kerbside pickup
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great tea selection
  • Live music
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Assistive hearing loop
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Late-night food
  • Private dining room
  • Spirits
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Bar on site
  • Toilets
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi
  • Cosy
  • Historic
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Upmarket
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Lunch reservations recommended
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • High chairs
  • Paid multi-storey car park
  • Dogs allowed outside

Categories

  • French restaurant
  • Bistro
  • Eclectic restaurant
  • Piano bar

Photos

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Comments

  • Review 1 (2024-11-26 - Rating: 5)

    Such a lovely place near Times Square. The food is good but the music, mood, atmosphere are even better. I went to this restaurant while traveling alone and it did not even feel like I was on my own. I ordered a three-course meal, wine and water and it did not seemed pricey to me.

  • Review 2 (2024-09-25 - Rating: 4)

    9/21/24Chez Josephine is a charming French restaurant that has long intrigued me. Finally, after years of walking by, I had the opportunity to dine there. The interior is beautifully decorated, evoking the glamorous Parisian atmosphere of Josephine Bakers era.French Onion soup - rich and flavorful, though a bit sweeter than I expected. The cheese was perfectly melted and formed a delicious, crispy top.Grilled Octopus - full of flavor, though I found it slightly chewy.Duck a lOrange - cooked to perfection and had a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.Seafood Casserole - a bit of a disappointment. While it was tasty, it was more like a soup than a casserole, and the seafood was slightly overcooked.The service was impeccable. Our servers, Ulises, Mayra, and Ariel, were attentive and knowledgeable, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.Overall, Chez Josephine is a delightful restaurant that captures the essence of Parisian cuisine. While there were a few minor hiccups, the overall experience was enjoyable, and I would definitely recommend it to others.

  • Review 3 (2024-07-25 - Rating: 5)

    Had a wonderful lunch for restaurant week today. Highly recommend with a great menu and absolutely delicious food. Menu for restaurant week includes one appetizer, one main course and dessert. The Country Pâté, grilled quail and steak frites were all a 10/10! So flavorful and delightful. The restaurant itself has such high end beautiful decorated Paris vibes. Spectacular for pictures and special events. I will definitely be returning for a date night!

  • Review 4 (2024-12-23 - Rating: 5)

    I had such an incredible time at Chez Josephine! Tea lights on each of the tables with low lighting and beautiful table settings created a romantic and personal atmosphere. The staff was extremely kind and professional, offering us some of the best service I have ever experienced. My friend and I enjoyed our delicious drinks from the bar (gimlet for me and French 75 for him) courtesy of the talented Sebastian. Our waiter, Alfonso, was the epitome of service. Providing us with recommendations and playful banter which helped set us at ease for our experience. There was a piano player/performer singing some holiday music in the background which only solidified the atmosphere created. Our food was next level delicious. I had the duck which was melt in your mouth amazing with a sauce I wanted to bathe in. I got to have a bite of my friends trout and it was just as good as the duck. We finished our plates and we were treated kindly to some champagne as performers switched out. The performer, Nikki, who took over for the first performed a few of her original songs that brought tears to my eyes and created an other-worldly experience in the restaurant. I was visiting NYC and have intentions to move in the near future to the city, and this experience is another reason I am going to make the move. There is nothing like this experience anywhere else, service like no other, and food worth every cent. If you are looking for amazing French cuisine with a perfect atmosphere, look no further. Chez Josephine is it.

  • Review 5 (2024-08-05 - Rating: 5)

    Quite possibly the best dining experience ever!My husband and I were on vacation in NYC June, and noticed the red and blue awning featuring a piano bar. We both love French food and quickly made a reservation. Every detail of our time spent here was perfect from the moment we walked in the door. The vibe is exquisite, intimate and romantic, the food and wine delicious (best sea bass and risotto ever!) and we received world class service from our attentive server Ray and the incredibly talented pianist Levi Pugh.At the end of the evening we were gifted a poster of Chez Josephine which we have hung in our living room as a cherished memory of such a magical night.We cannot say enough or give a higher recommendation for this incredible gem.Can’t wait to return!With love from Canada

  • Review 6 (2024-09-01 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite places in NYC! Went to Sunday brunch ($30 full three-course!so tasty !) Everything went so well, and they did not forget our 25th anniversary mention! I didnt expect it during lunchtime, but beautiful piano music and songs accompanied our meal. It was so beautiful!

  • Review 7 (2024-07-27 - Rating: 5)

    Perfect restaurant near Westside Theater for our show! The atmosphere takes you back immediately in time without being pretentious and the food was delicious! Drinks were well balanced. I had the Bakertini.

  • Review 8 (2024-04-28 - Rating: 4)

    Tables are close together as so many in NYC. Service was spotty but fine. Onion soup itself was delicious but the cheese is strong, too much for me but my husband really liked it. Trout almandine was very nicely done. Spaghetti and bolognese sauce was reported to be very good and not heavy or spicy. Pianist was excellent and not intrusive on conversation. It was too cold for outdoor seating although that looked really nice. Location is good for theaters and prices are fair.

  • Review 9 (2023-12-03 - Rating: 4)

    Great low-key French restaurant.Everything we ate was delicious - escargot, pate, steak frites, spaghetti. Okay that last one was Italian but it was still good!The servers were nice and attentive. The space is a bit narrow and dark; intimate but loud voices can carry. Live piano player was there when I had dinner - it was fine and not too overbearing.Recommended.

  • Review 10 (2024-12-31 - Rating: 5)

    The Food was fantastic and the atmosphere was amazing. The waiters were very friendly and Attentive. It really lives up to its name. The prices are not in the menu so beware of them.

  • Review 11 (2024-12-14 - Rating: 4)

    For the price, the kitchen is certainly lacking.Atmosphere is nice, staff are pleasant, its extremely close to the theater district.. theres a lot going on in their favor. However, for the higher cost of 2 drinks and 2 entrees, we expected more. I would suggest avoiding the trout if you do go to Chez.

  • Review 12 (2024-10-22 - Rating: 5)

    Chez Josephine! You are still as lovely and perfectly French as I remember! I celebrated my birthday at Chez Josephine with my daughter and it was fabulous in every way! We popped in without a reservation and they quickly made room for us. The live music (piano) filled the restaurant with ambiance, the service was impeccable and the food divine! After dinner we moved to the bar for a glass of wine (or two!) while admiring the amazing artwork hanging everywhere! Manuel chatted with us for a while, telling us the story of his journey with the restaurant and he even gifted us a book “The Hungry Heart” about Josephine Baker! We were reluctant to end the evening, as it was just so nice. Can’t wait to come back!

  • Review 13 (2024-08-01 - Rating: 5)

    Came for their restaurant week. We all had their country pate 👍🏻Main course we tried ravioli (3 pieces), quail and steak are very good choices. Dessert I like the hazelnut ice cream the best. It’s 4 stars because the place is a bit old, well you can say it’s traditional Parisian style. Nice to have piano live music but we only got the window seats. Only able to see the player when going up to see the bathroom:)

  • Review 14 (2024-12-23 - Rating: 5)

    Party of 4 for dinner after our musical. They sat us early and Lana was very attentive all night. We started with cocktails which all were great (Bakertini & house cab). Appetizers (shrimp cocktail and French onion) were all delicious. Entrees were the skate, boeuf bourguignon and breast of duck were all amazing. Highly recommend!

  • Review 15 (2023-08-22 - Rating: 4)

    I tried this place for Restaurant week,( I dont know why they still call it that) I wanted to get the fixed menu. I think of it as an introduction to the restaurant. We had the salad, the soup the steak, Quail and ice cream cake.The salad was good nothing too special. The soup was perfect I enjoyed every drop. The steak was skirt steak so I didnt have too much expectations on that but the sauce taste really burnt as did the Quail. The risotto was pretty good I enjoyed that part.The ice cream cake couldnt have been cut thinner they may have well shaved a piece to searve. Maybe its just the restaurant week menu. After eating here at restaurant week I woulnt be inclined to go back.The restaurant has a very romantic vibe it is perfect for a date night. They had live piano and a singer and the walls are adorned with photos of Josephine Baker. I wouldnt recomend to bring children but that is up to you.The staff were very pleasant and attentive I felt welcomed as soon as I arrived.

  • Review 16 (2023-08-28 - Rating: 5)

    First walking in I absolutely loved the warm vibe of this restaurant. Honestly with the comes and the dark wood it reminded me a bit of when I was in Paris. I didnt expect there to be live music but there was a lovely musician playing piano and singing very gently, just loud enough to add to the ambiance but still have conversation at the table.The service was just right. They were attentive but not naggy and our waiter answered any questions with a pleasant, dare I say even happy, demeanor. He plauded our choices which whether true or false was nice to hear.Now for the food. I heard this was a good spot for French food and I am happy to report that they did not disappoint. My friends have a tradition of eating it family style.*Appetizers*French Onion Soup - I am not usually a fan of French onion soup because there onions are burnt resulting in a bitter taste. However, this is honestly the best French onion soup Ive ever had because I actually really really liked it. Not only was there no bitterness, but the cheese they used was divine (I believe it was gruyere, one of my favorites).Escargots à la Bourguignonne - My friends and I had it in Paris and like to get it as a treat to reminisce about studying abroad. Here it is served pre-shelled and sitting in garlic and herbs so no need to fear accidentally catapulting snails at other diners. (Pro tip: soak up the sauce with the bread they give to the table, you wont regret it!)Tuna Tartare - I love tuna tartare and theirs was top tier. It is served over an avocado salad and features a ginger sesame oil sauce and it paired with toasted bread cut into triangles.*Main Course*Roasted Breast of Long Island Duck with an orange glaze and wild rice - I chose this French restaurant specifically because they had a duck breast dish and they did not disappoint! Im bias but if the 3 mains we got, this was my favorite. The duck was perfectly cooked, the orange glaze was a lovely compliment to the duck, and the wild rice gave it dinner great texture. Absolutely delicious. I would come back just for this dishVeal special with truffle mash potatoes - My friend ordered this one and if youre a fan of veal or mash youll be hoping they bring this special backPan-Seared Sea Scallops with green asparagus, potato purée, and champagne sauce - Admittedly, Im not the biggest fan of scallops. I will say, they were made very well and I enjoyed it when the pastor puree and asparagus.*Dessert*Crème Brûlée - We split this dessert and it was on par with the rest of our meal. I feel like the best way to describe it is that the custard seemed perfectly set. Not water, held its shape but still melted in the mouth. The perfect end to a delicious meal!I will definitely be coming back here again!

  • Review 17 (2024-08-04 - Rating: 4)

    I arrived at the restaurant after making a reservation in the morning, specifically requesting a cozy spot for a date. However, the waitress seated me by the entrance door, which was not what I had asked for. When I asked if we could get a better table, her immediate response was “no” without even checking.Fortunately, the manager was passing by and noticed our conversation. I asked him if we could get a better spot than by the entrance door, and he kindly accommodated us, seating us toward the back where there were many empty tables. Thanks to him and his excellent customer service, we had a good night.Unfortunately, the waitress displayed terrible customer service and should reconsider her position if she cannot provide better assistance. Once again, many thanks to the manager for his help and making our evening enjoyable.

  • Review 18 (2024-08-16 - Rating: 5)

    Food was great, happy we part took in NYC Summer 24 Restaurant Week. Watermelon feta salad was good, steak frites were great as well. Dessert options weren’t that exciting, I had a mango mousse, it was fine. The service wasn’t that good. Kept having to wait to order, get our drinks, order more drinks, or get the bill. Such a small place, with the upstairs closed and the service was just not it. Live piano is a fun addition, but they don’t play very late. Definitely ends the night early.

  • Review 19 (2024-01-14 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely music scene in an entertaining Saturday night. Enjoyed our cocktails, escargot and pate. Entrees skate wing and liver were well prepared and both were tasty and tender. Loved our dessert chocolate Lave cake with ice cream. Will be back for sure!

  • Review 20 (2025-01-02 - Rating: 4)

    Great service, quality food. Nice location when you have a show.

  • Review 21 (2019-12-17 - Rating: 5)

    It was a fantastic place to have dinner with live music. The menu is French...Josephine Baker inspired and the food was great! The ambiance was rich like the 20s feel. I felt like I was back in time. The service was excellent as well. My friends and I had a free drink for my birthday so I happy. Even the band came up to me to say happy birthday. I was delighted and I would definitely recommend this place. Ill be back!

  • Review 22 (2023-12-03 - Rating: 4)

    We made reservations ahead. I got there a few minutes early. Our table was available and they proceeded us to our dining experience. The restaurant, took a team approach to ensure that we were attended to and had everything we needed. Overall great experience. Warning, scandalous paintings in the restaurant area, not for little children.

  • Review 23 (2023-11-25 - Rating: 4)

    I’d like to value this restaurant 4 stars one as French cuisine restaurant, food 3 stars plus live piano performance 1 star.I ordered pre fixed course, but anything is not sophisticated given French cuisine. The taste/flavor was pretty normal, it was not beyond my expectations. If you pay $100 for here, it would be better to go another place than to come here.Moreover some staffs are insufficient to pay attention to customers.

  • Review 24 (2021-05-04 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely restaurant with friendly and attentive staff. The entire staff wore masks and we were seated socially distanced inside. Outdoor dining available on the sidewalk. The food was flavorful and delicious. Bathrooms are upstairs.

  • Review 25 (2022-10-05 - Rating: 4)

    Charming french restaurant with great ambience. We happened to stop in on a rainy night and they were able to seat us right away. The lighting was romantic with a live pianist’s performance filling the space. The food was great with a truffle-y pasta and a flavor packed pork chop.

  • Review 26 (2022-01-29 - Rating: 4)

    Here on the first night of the restaurant week for dinner which is $39 very reasonable price for 3 courses meal. Reservation recommended but not necessary, there were plenty of seats on weekdays: there was a live jazz music around 8pm. We were able to get the window seat which is cozy and more isolated. If you want to be close to the music might need to sit close to the stage.Service was good, our waitress didnt seem very friendly after we told them that we didnt want alcohol. But the runners are great always kept our empty plate removed and water filled.There are some good options for the restaurant week menuChicken terrin: portion is generous, wish there were more pieces of toasts (5 star)Coq Au vin: about half hen bone in, cooked well and great sauce just might need a bit more salt (4 star)Coconut Panna Cota: its a little bit too firm and passion fruit coulis is too concentrated too overpowering. (3 stars)In general their food is great but pastry is lacking, bread doesnt taste fresh and desert did not stand out. There are some room to improve but for this price its still a good deal

  • Review 27 (2024-02-13 - Rating: 5)

    If youre in NYC, add this place to your must do list. Josephine Baker themed restaurant, including family recipes. The liver dinner was toe-curling. Ill go back again . Piano player made it 10x better!

  • Review 28 (2020-03-08 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent! One of my favorite restaurants ever. Like walking back in time….Great food and service. We went 3 nights in a row! The first time we went there was filming and blogging going on. The space is so beautiful! We were also served a bottle of champagne FREE! This is not the norm I think we just got lucky!! The live piano players set an even more nostalgic tone…. Must go while youre in NY!

  • Review 29 (2024-12-14 - Rating: 5)

    We come here almost every holiday, and the vibe of this place is just unmatched. It manages to be both tranquil and vibrant at the same time. The rack of lamb is divine. Their drinks, starters, and entrée never disappoint. The desserts are hit or miss, and for some reason, getting coffee always takes a while. Overall we love this place and always return when we can.

  • Review 30 (2018-08-02 - Rating: 5)

    Came here for restaurant week lunch. The food was pretty good. I read up on Josephine Baker before coming here so the murals and decor made sense to me. The place feels unpretentious and there was no dress code. All in all I liked the experience.

  • Review 31 (2024-08-01 - Rating: 4)

    We visited for the Restaurant Week Sunday brunch. The service was excellent, but the food was average. My favorite was the sorbet.

  • Review 32 (2024-07-28 - Rating: 4)

    Cozy dim-lit little cafe with live piano that sets a perfect mood. Everything we tried on the Restaurant Week menu was perfect. The only thing that lets the place down is service, not very attentive and a little arrogant.

  • Review 33 (2024-04-14 - Rating: 5)

    First of all, this is the best restaurant I’ve been to in all of my 50 years. The staff were so kind, incredible and attentive. I really recommend the dish potato leek soup. My family and I could’ve ate that for hours and hours. Later on, a pianist came on in, and was playing the most exquisite music that I have ever heard at a public event. And just the atmosphere alone is worth a five starr review. I will be happy to come here over and over again, without a doubt. I hope that you also have had a wonderful experience at this simply divine restaurant. Thank you for reading this, and have a wonderful day.

  • Review 34 (2024-03-24 - Rating: 5)

    Live music was great, very intimate french vibe in the restaurant. Unique menu items that have oustanding flavor.

  • Review 35 (2024-11-09 - Rating: 5)

    My favorite place for celebrations!! Great food! Great Service!! And...the absolute most fun atmosphere with fabulous music!! The hidden gem of NYC!!

  • Review 36 (2021-03-29 - Rating: 5)

    Great service, little charming French restaurant with an amazing atmosphere and most importantly, food is incredibly tasty. Deserts, wine and all are so good. What a nice place!

  • Review 37 (2019-02-04 - Rating: 5)

    Chez Josephine has an amazing ambiance and style all its own. The staff is extremely friendly and the music is delightful. You really cant go wrong with anything on the menu. The food is absolutely delicious.

  • Review 38 (2025-01-04 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely amazing place! Excellent food - super charming ambiance (with live piano music and singer - and not too loud! just perfect balance to enhance the cozy ambiance). Last but not least, very fairly priced for such a good quality food. Well done guys 👍

  • Review 39 (2023-03-31 - Rating: 5)

    A stunning bistro just outside the bustle of the theater district. Quaint and timeless, with a fantastic menu and expert bar. Was there with a party of 8 for hours of relaxed dining and conviviality and had a blast.

  • Review 40 (2023-03-28 - Rating: 4)

    Enjoyed the music. The food was good. The service was slow, they are probably shorthanded as everyone nowadays

  • Review 41 (2022-03-01 - Rating: 5)

    Incredible staff, food and atmosphere. The service and espresso martini from and were exceptional. Ill be stopping by every time Im back in town

  • Review 42 (2024-03-31 - Rating: 5)

    It’s been a bit since I’ve been to Chez Josephine and so happy to be back and see it’s still wonderful! I visited before seeing a show at Playwrights Horizons and extremely convenient.I had the Lobster Bisque as a starter, Beef Bourguignon for main and Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet for dessert—all fantastic!The host was extremely welcoming as was my server and everyone else working. The pianist & singer were wonderful and made it a great night. Can’t wait to be back.

  • Review 43 (2024-03-27 - Rating: 5)

    This legendary spot is not just the magical heart of NYC but also an essential stop for those seeking an evening unlike any other in the city. The chefs French cuisine is absolutely exquisite. The manager exudes sophistication and warmth, while the pianist sets an enchanting ambiance. And finally... a rarity in the USA: a restaurant in NYC where people dont shout. A definite must-visit.

  • Review 44 (2024-06-08 - Rating: 5)

    This place is a gem, absolutely beautiful with great performers. We were a large group that was in a rush to catch a show, and the wait-staff were incredibly accommodating and kind. The food was also delicious, really a great place for a special occasion.

  • Review 45 (2022-12-26 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely tiny restaurant in town. Wonderful atmosphere of Chrismas to see people enjoy dinner even better when piano start playing. I love this place.

  • Review 46 (2021-08-28 - Rating: 5)

    Love being right around the corner from this little gem! Recommend if you enjoy nice cocktails and good food, along with a healthy side of NYC people-watching 🗽🤩😊

  • Review 47 (2024-06-03 - Rating: 5)

    Always a delight to get a pre or post-show dinner at Chez Josephine. The food is consistently very good, great cocktails and the atmosphere with the piano is delightful. Definitely recommended when youre in the theater district

  • Review 48 (2024-09-22 - Rating: 5)

    A chance find after a night at the theater. Wanted a place to have a meal and enjoy conversation with friends. Chez Josephine checked all of our boxes.

  • Review 49 (2024-08-24 - Rating: 5)

    What a beautiful unique restaurant ! Piano was great as well.

  • Review 50 (2024-12-24 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite French places in NYC! It is a must every time I visit.

  • Review 51 (2024-01-04 - Rating: 5)

    We came this time just for drinks but it was just amazing as always. They seem to always have live music which is soothing and relaxing, and the drink choices are super good. The food here is amazing too we just didn’t get the chance to eat this time as this place is perfect for a night cap in a romantic quiet scene. I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting or for those in the area, it’s a perfect place for a nice martini or glass of exceptional wine.

  • Review 52 (2023-12-13 - Rating: 4)

    We made a late reservation love the ambiance, the decoration and the older pianist playing classics and modern pieces made it better.We had an oysters and prosciutto and fig appetizer. The prosciutto felt domestic more like a good ham. But overall taste and balance was perfect.For entire we had the skate fish which was very well presented and seasoned with green beans and smashed potato.Our servers were great but the host was a bit strange or maybe he was giving us the “french” experience 😂We had an old fashioned for this restaurant it was very subpar.Overall I love the food and the ambiance.

  • Review 53 (2024-08-16 - Rating: 5)

    First time having French food. The food was great, the atmosphere was amazing with live music. Highly recommend

  • Review 54 (2024-12-02 - Rating: 5)

    A special place, there’s nothing like it. Good food, fabulous decor, good service, and live music.

  • Review 55 (2020-10-24 - Rating: 5)

    Hands down the best spaghetti I’ve ever had. Pork chop is also best of its kind! Will absolutely recommend.

  • Review 56 (2024-06-17 - Rating: 5)

    This is a long time 8 or 9 year favorite of my partner and I...it in midtown close to the theatres, and the food and atmosphere ♥️ is perfect...Familar enough and full of clear regulars from the neighborhood or people like us that visit NYC regularly, and want you feel at home. Cant recommend it enough...a d the lobster bisque delicious...we have gone both before theatre for full dinner or after for an appitizer or dessert, and relaxed piano music.

  • Review 57 (2023-08-31 - Rating: 4)

    I recently dined at Chez Josephine, a restaurant known for its classic French charm and exquisite cuisine. The ambiance, reminiscent of a bygone era, exudes elegance and sophistication. The menu, showcasing traditional French dishes, has always been a delightful journey for the palate.However, I was taken aback by the introduction of certain Italian elements in the service. As someone who admired the legacy of Jean Claude, the former owner who poured his heart and soul into the place, I felt a pang of nostalgia seeing these changes. While the service was still impeccable, the infusion of Italian vibes felt slightly out of place in a venue that was once a bastion of authentic French culture.Despite this departure from tradition, I must commend the chefs for maintaining the exceptional quality of the dishes. Each bite was a testament to the culinary prowess that Chez Josephine is known for. From escargot to scallops, the flavors transported me straight to the streets of Paris.In the end, Chez Josephine continues to stand as a remarkable dining destination, marrying French culinary excellence with a touch of the unexpected. While the Italian influences in the service did give me pause, they did not overshadow the overall enchanting experience. I hope the restaurant can find a way to pay homage to its founders vision.

  • Review 58 (2023-09-22 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely amazing dining experience. We had appetizers, soup and 4 entrees. The attention to detail was exceptional. One of us couldn’t decide on which entree to order and Alfredo, our server (as well many other roles) asked if he could surprise us with an entree. He presented the indecisive one in our party with a specially prepared dish that combined two of the items he was contemplating ordering. The lamb shank (a special) was perfectly prepared, fell off the bone. I can’t say enough great things about this wonderful restaurant. Highly recommended!

  • Review 59 (2023-11-24 - Rating: 5)

    This is my favorite special occasion restaurant in NYC! This was my French grandfather’s favorite restaurant so we keep coming back in honor of him. We came in for Thanksgiving dinner and we had the whole upstairs to ourselves. Food was delicious, service was great and the piano was excellent.

  • Review 60 (2023-12-26 - Rating: 5)

    Chez Josephine offers an incredible culinary experience! The food is undeniably delicious, surpassing anything Ive tasted in the city so far. However, our dining experience was slightly hindered by the service, as they seemed more focused on refilling water than taking our order. Nevertheless, the exceptional flavors make it a restaurant worth savoring.

  • Review 61 (2024-04-06 - Rating: 5)

    This is a classy spot. Very cozy and romantic. Excellent spot for a date. Great service and the bartenders are very knowledgeable. The food was delucious and the presentation was impeccable.

  • Review 62 (2024-02-24 - Rating: 4)

    We’ve lived in the neighborhood for two decades but had never been. My wife wanted to have a low-key birthday dinner here, just family. And we enjoyed it. The single most impressive aspect remains the decor and paintings of Josephine Baker. I wanted to take photos of the latter but it felt wrong to do so as the paintings are generally celebrating her physical beauty while in a state of undress. The restaurant and its decor are an homage to Ms Baker by her 13th child, though, evidently not adopted he was taken in and took her name. The late Chef Jean Claude Baker. The restaurant these days has a new owner. We had the French onion soup, endive with Roquefort cheese, sea scallops, and rack of lamb. All quite good.

  • Review 63 (2024-07-06 - Rating: 5)

    Share an enjoyable quick brunch with family and friends. Great service. Try the Eggs Benedict. You will not be disappointed!

  • Review 64 (2018-03-27 - Rating: 4)

    Old style NYc place, quite memorable with real piano and live singers, great food and service, great for a date

  • Review 65 (2022-12-26 - Rating: 5)

    We were here over Christmas dinner. A lot of people and hard go hear the pianist. The food was fantastic.

  • Review 66 (2024-11-03 - Rating: 5)

    Love this place!!!

  • Review 67 (2024-10-18 - Rating: 5)

    Most fabulous place to eat in NYC. Great food, music, ambience, service.

  • Review 68 (2023-09-08 - Rating: 5)

    Ended up here by sheer chance as I was staying in a hotel around the corner. The interior design tries to entertain a certain Parisienne cabaret chic. You could call it tacky but it gives the place a warm, cozy, and very private atmosphere. I was surprised by live music by a piano player singing French chansons (what else) adding to the atmosphere. The menu features a lot of French comfort food classics, which I appreciated after a long haul flight. I had pate and beef tartare, both up to solid French standard, an two glasses of a very drinkable Sancerre all served by very attentive and forthcoming staff. Overall a very pleasant experience. Pleasant enough o go there for lunch again the next day. Thank you!

  • Review 69 (2024-04-12 - Rating: 5)

    Incredible pre-show experience. Wonderful atmosphere, especially Ulysses our bartender. Impeccable service, delightful storytelling and incredible cocktails. Perfect evening! Thanks Ulysses!

  • Review 70 (2024-01-22 - Rating: 5)

    More than we expected! The feel of stepping back in time to the Folies Bergeres and the world of Josephine Baker. The decor is artful,eyecatching, yet soft. The pianist delights with tasteful selections that sync with style and grace of the era. A la carte selections and restaurant selections are both enticing,desserts delicious.

  • Review 71 (2023-07-04 - Rating: 5)

    I was only there for an after-work private party but the appetizers they were passing around were excellent and the service was spectacular. (Im not sure if its on their regular menu but I LOVED their smoked salmon on bread hors doeuvres as well as the blue cheese on endive with cherry tomatoes.)I was coming from a workshop rehearsal with my cymbals and the maitre d, recognizing all the stuff I had, took care of my instrument and stored them under the grand piano so I could go more easily upstairs and join my afterwork party.All the servers were very gracious and friendly. This place must have excellent management because everyone seemed really nice and friendly.

  • Review 72 (2022-11-19 - Rating: 5)

    This is my favourite restaurant ever! The best quality food, best customer service, lovely staff, and amazing ambiance!The young pianist Gabe is brilliant, and with no doubt has a bright future! Also follow Alfredos recommendations for food and wine pairings. You wont regret it!I definitely recommend everyone to try this place! An unforgettable memory is promised! 💫

  • Review 73 (2024-02-05 - Rating: 5)

    The atmosphere here is the thing. Great bar, lice piano music, and its a scene. Im always seeing famous actors there. And the lighting ... God we all look like were 25 in there

  • Review 74 (2024-12-23 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful restaurant with amazing food. Onion soup and beef Bourgogne were out of this world!

  • Review 75 (2024-05-12 - Rating: 5)

    If you are looking for a nice french restaurant in New York dont miss to go there. The dishes are delicious and the service is good and fast. I recommend.

  • Review 76 (2022-10-18 - Rating: 5)

    We had a terrific post-theatre dinner in this charming restaurant. My roasted salmon entree was exceptionally well-prepared. Cooked to perfection, juicy and served either spinach and a light, flavorful sauce. My companions scallops were similarly well-prepared. The chef made special orders of mashed potatoes and molten chocolate cake gluten free for my friend.

  • Review 77 (2023-04-24 - Rating: 5)

    Great food! Very good service. We loved the onion soup and the Tuna tartar. The Trout was great as well. My partner enjoyed the steak tartar. Service very good and nice atmosphere with live music (Saturday night).

  • Review 78 (2022-08-20 - Rating: 5)

    Great food for reasonable prices, but if youre an dessert type of person, look elsewhere. I really enjoyed the Chicken Liver starter which was served Fois Gras style! I read here about the aged Manhattan which Id also recommend. Atmosphere was great with lots of mirror walls cleverly used to make this small place look quite large. Live piano music was nice.

  • Review 79 (2024-02-11 - Rating: 5)

    Fair price, good food and amazing service! The place itself is beautiful! Lots of art and live music! A little piece of Paris in Manhattan!

  • Review 80 (2024-08-29 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful food and service! We were recommended to dine at Chez Josephine’s and the restaurant hit on all marks! Ulysses was attentive and professional which made the evening perfect. Fish, seafood and steaks were cooked to perfection and enjoyed by our group. The live piano music added just he right touch for a delightful evening. Thanks to all the staff for a special evening!

  • Review 81 (2022-05-21 - Rating: 5)

    If you think French, romantic and live music this is your spot. Tables are a little small if you want to order more or you are a taller or bigger person but waiter will make it work. Excellent service and amazing food. Only thing that I cant give 5 stars was apple dessert. Still worth the experience

  • Review 82 (2024-04-30 - Rating: 5)

    Stopped here for cocktails before a show. Great staff, yummy drinks

  • Review 83 (2023-03-13 - Rating: 5)

    Great night at Chez Josephine!We enjoyed the duck, escargot and the endives, as well as a couple of rounds of cocktails and desserts. The endives were a pleasant surprise. The duck was tasty as well!Panda cotta could have been fluffier and more flavorful but we didn’t mind it anyway. Would go back for cocktails, romantic atmosphere and live music.

  • Review 84 (2022-07-26 - Rating: 4)

    Leave NYC and step through time. One of the classic, old school New York places: central location, live music, unbothered servers, beautifully decorated and little signs of it weathered through the decades.Its French cuisine, so not very friendly for vegetarians and definitely a skip if youre vegan. Dishes are typical fares you expect to find, but everything is flavorful and well executed. Waitstaff are professional, quick, and with it is what it is outlook.Good for solo, date night, or small groups. Good classic dishes, no nonsense staff, great ambiance.

  • Review 85 (2023-12-18 - Rating: 5)

    Elegant and convenient restaurant. We had a beautiful table in the window and we enjoyed the piano and Christmas decorations. Great food and great service.

  • Review 86 (2022-09-02 - Rating: 5)

    Had an incredible experience here during “Restaurant Week.” The stand out was the chicken liver pâté that was accompanied with a mango chutney of some sort. The combination of flavors was truly unlike anything I had ever eaten. Everything else from the main course to the drinks were incredible.The interior of the restaurant is beautiful and the live music really transports you to Paris (or so it did for me).

  • Review 87 (2018-02-27 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely loved this place. Amazing French cuisine. Expect NYC pricing but its worth it. We visited twice in the past month, once for cocktails and a small bite to eat and then a sit down dinner. Their escargot is heavenly although very heavy on the butter sauce. Friendly staff and a wonderful pianist after 6pm. Works great for a place to eat before a show or after work. Its not a super formal place although mostly the patrons were dressed up or in business casual. A wonderful nod to Josephine Baker so dont be surprised to see her very risque portrait hanging up in all her glory.

  • Review 88 (2022-01-02 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful for post-theatre drinks and food. Staff is amazingly kind. Service CAN be a bit slow/relaxed. But this is a place where you SHOULD eat and drink slowly. With friends. Or sit at the bar and make new friends. It’s just a treasure, owned by Josephine Baker’s children.Order the classic French dishes. It’s what they do best. Or the bolognese because it was Josephine’s fave and they do that right.Definitely get cocktails.Definitely get wine.Enjoy the great atmosphere and go!!

  • Review 89 (2024-02-29 - Rating: 5)

    Not only was the atmosphere très magnifique, but the food was superb — only made better by Alfredo’s impeccable service. We are so grateful he was our server as he is patient and kind, with a touch of welcomed good humor. Live piano during dinner. Merci!

  • Review 90 (2022-04-11 - Rating: 4)

    This place was very lively and beautifully decorated. The atmosphere was awesome with live piano music and singer. This is definitely a lovely spot for date night. Overall the food was pretty good and the wine selection was decent. The service could have been much better. Our waiter couldn’t answer many questions about the menu or the wine list and wasn’t very attentive. This was not the best French food I’ve ever had but still a good meal. I eat escargot anytime I see it on a menu and this one tasted pretty good. The issue I had with the serving was the way they served it. The dish was too shallow and didn’t have much buttery goodness to dip bread. I had the lamb shank special and it was moist and very tender with a nice flavor. My friend had the steak and fries and thought it tasted good and was cooked nicely. It was a decent experience and I would consider going back for the atmosphere and some drinks or apps.

  • Review 91 (2022-02-16 - Rating: 4)

    Had a good restaurant week deal ($29 for lunch). Came on a sunday and there was live music (someone playing piano and singing). Great ambiance. Love the appetizer (chicken terrine) and dessert (poached pear). The entre (striped bass with cauliflower and saffron sauce) was neither here nor there - lacking something that I dont quite know. Butter for bread was a bit too hard. Love my experience but definitely could be better.

  • Review 92 (2024-10-02 - Rating: 5)

    Really great old school restaurant. We only came for drinks and dessert but they were very good and Im told that the food is good. There was a live jazz trio performing and they were excellent. Really nice atmosphere

  • Review 93 (2022-11-13 - Rating: 5)

    The food was stellar, the atmosphere was whimsical, the location in midtown was the best.

  • Review 94 (2022-12-13 - Rating: 5)

    GREAT atmosphere, really good food! We had Thanksgiving dinner here. The pianist was amazing. I am a bit disappointed that we had to pay full price for the prix fix meal for someone in our party that couldnt eat due to a stomach medical restriction.

  • Review 95 (2021-12-13 - Rating: 5)

    The very coolest restaurant experience Ive had. Service was the fantastic, Eduardo was our server and he was great to talk to, everyone was extremely helpful and cordial, live music was engaging and refreshing. I had tuna tartare for an appetizer and then roasted duck for the entrée. It was great, Im very picky with food but we highly recommend.

  • Review 96 (2024-01-29 - Rating: 4)

    Service with a smile, reservations recommended, outdoor seating available. Neat experience with live piano entertainment and colorful atmosphere. Lobster bisque was pretty skimpy on the lobster and darker than expected but pretty good. Great for a drink and appetizer.

  • Review 97 (2021-10-19 - Rating: 5)

    This is a french restaurant hidden gem in midtown. The decoration is decent. The food is also good. The price is reasonable. I came here in NYC resultant week. One soup + one brunch + one dessert only 20+. Nice! BTW, live music during dinner time.

  • Review 98 (2024-01-18 - Rating: 4)

    Joséphine Baker was an African-American and French icon. Shes the only American born woman to receive full French military honors at her funeral in France. Chez Joséphine on Theatre Row in Manhattan was opened by her sons in her honor. I had no idea that the restaurant was a homage to Josephine Baker. It drips with New York and it is a must if youre in New York. There was a piano player playing at the center of the restaurant on the first floor that gave it an even classier atmosphere. Its very elegant and great for a date night. There is a large collection of photographs and paintings throughout and the food and drinks were amazing.

  • Review 99 (2021-11-14 - Rating: 4)

    Love the night club ambience of this place. The colorful mural on the wall is so refreshing compared to the cookie cutter decor and bland, neutral colors of most of the new modern restaurants. As you well know, Josephine was a famous naughty nightclub performer in the go go days of glamor, chivalry, elegance and decadence!! Foodwise, it was so,so. Overall, a fun place to have an experience! We went there for supper after a play.

  • Review 100 (2013-05-21 - Rating: 5)

    My daughter and I enjoyed a delightful evening at Chez Josephine. The ambiance was intimate, inviting and elegant. Service was excellent We were joined at our table by the gracious host Jean-Claude who was engaging and cordial in giving information concerning his famous mother. A pianist played an evening of non-intrusive selections that added to our pleasure. Food is pricey, but good. We found it all to be a pleasant experience.

  • Review 101 (2021-09-15 - Rating: 5)

    This restaurant is an excellent little gem just off the incredibly busy tourist center of Manhattan. It is very romantic and the atmosphere is perfect for date night. The food was excellent and the wine selection, though limited, was perfectly matched to their ambiance and cuisine. My husband and I ordered the country pate and escargot for starters, both divine and perfectly prepared. We had the steak tartare and duck lorange for our mains, the steak seemed to be ground instead of sliced so while it tasted fantastic it had a bit of a paste consistency and could have done with some bread or toast points of some sort to spread it on rather than eating it plain with a fork. The duck was absolutely delicious as was the wild rice it comes with. We had tried to order the lobster cassoulet but they were unfortunately out :( Either way, highly recommend this restaurant - 5 stars!

  • Review 102 (2021-06-06 - Rating: 5)

    We enjoyed our dinner last night at Chez Josephine. The ambience was fabulous, and the food was delicious! But two things that made it a fabulous dinner were the waiter and the pianist. The waiter was very attentive and eager to please. The pianist, Dennis, was personable and played some really beautiful music. I do wish that at least part of the time that the pianist could play some unconventional music, not 80s pop, or the American songbook. Everyone does that! But I could hear in Denniss playing a hint of piano from George Winston and also maybe some of his own songs from his heart. At the start of every familiar song was a teaser of this kind. Give him some freedom. Hes a great pianist!!!!

  • Review 103 (2021-12-04 - Rating: 4)

    I worked an event here with the french consulate and the place was packed with people. The food was great but I think they were understaffed for 70 or 80 people. The restaurant is a bit small for that size of a party but everyone did the best the can.Didnt get to eat too much... The Coq au Vin was pretty good... Chicken was tender and juicy but that slab of foie Gras I had was heavenly. I mean it brought back memories of my trip to Paris many years ago. It was that good.All in all Id like to come back with more time and ha r a good meal.

  • Review 104 (2017-11-18 - Rating: 4)

    Pretty crowded on weekend nights given it’s proximity to broadway. Food was very good but we experienced a longer than expected wait time for an extra helping of lobster dip

  • Review 105 (2019-08-29 - Rating: 5)

    Fabulous food and service. Trout almondine was perfect and the lobster cassoulet a real treat. We had an apple rhubarb crepe cake which was outstanding—wonderful pairing of flavors and sauce. Our table was near the piano and the music was great but made it hard to talk at times. Also, tables to the back ate extremely close to neighboring tables— you feel like you are eating with the people next to you. Overall, a wonderful meal in a great restaurant.

  • Review 106 (2024-10-23 - Rating: 4)

    Quaint place. Staff seem to care about the service and food. Inside is adorable and well maintained. Fun place for a cocktail

  • Review 107 (2022-12-29 - Rating: 5)

    Last night my sister and I received a horrible service at a different French restaurant in Manhattan, so we were a bit worried about visiting this place but it turned out that was no necessary at all! The atmosphere was stunning with nice live piano music, and most of all, our server, Ray, was super nice and attentive! Although my sister is not fluent in English and we had so many questions, he was being very kind and sweet. We are really happy to bring good memories from here not some unpleasant memories from the other rude French place(La Grande Boucherie FYI)

  • Review 108 (2022-06-06 - Rating: 4)

    Ive been here twice now and each time weve enjoyed both the ambiance, service and the food. I ordered the classic angel hair pasta and meat sauce and omg I have to say many places get this very simple cuisine very wrong and Chez Josephine is not one of them. It was simple magnificent. If you want to dine or simple grab a coctail in a spot thats an ode to the great josephine baker, honors the Broadway family, then def add this place to your must go spot.

  • Review 109 (2023-09-17 - Rating: 5)

    Classic French food done really well. They are open late so you can eat after your show. The music is a nice addition. There is plenty of room to sit close if you want more music or farther away if you want to talk easily. Be sure to try the goat cheese ravioli... Its spectacular!

  • Review 110 (2024-02-13 - Rating: 5)

    Outstanding. Wonderful food. Excellent service. Great atmosphere with live music when we were there. Loved it!

  • Review 111 (2023-01-13 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely delicious! We had the crab cake and tuna tartar to start, followed by the lobster cassoulet and black tiger shrimp with pesto risotto. So so good. Classic French dining at its finest.

  • Review 112 (2023-08-14 - Rating: 5)

    5-Star ReviewDear Chez Josephine Management and Staff,I am writing to express my utmost appreciation and gratitude for the exceptional experience my family and I had at your esteemed restaurant in NYC. I am thrilled to gift you a well-deserved 5-star review, as our visit was truly outstanding in every aspect.From the moment we stepped into Chez Josephine, we were warmly greeted by your incredibly friendly staff. We were specifically looking for a kid-friendly restaurant with a piano, as my son Nicholas is passionate about music and takes piano lessons. You provided the perfect ambiance for him, and he was overjoyed to hear the beautiful piano melodies throughout our dining experience.I want to extend a special thank you to your staff for their attentiveness and thoughtfulness. When my son felt a bit chilly, they promptly offered him a sweater, which I had forgotten to bring. This small gesture made a world of difference and showcased the genuine care and hospitality that sets Chez Josephine apart.Now, let me take a moment to express my admiration for your drinks. The pineapple sensation, in particular, left us speechless. It was a delightful and unique experience, and I cannot find the right words to describe its incredible taste. I must confess, it even helped me get out of the dog house with my wife, who was equally captivated by the drinks flavors. We truly appreciate the creativity and mastery behind your beverage selection.Overall, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at Chez Josephine for providing us with exceptional service and an unforgettable dining experience. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, and we will undoubtedly be returning in the near future. Thank you for making our time in NYC so memorable.With warmest regards,Elkin Colorado

  • Review 113 (2024-12-18 - Rating: 5)

    Awesome experience. Pianist was a nice add to the ambiance.

  • Review 114 (2023-01-24 - Rating: 5)

    This was a pleasant surprise. I happened to be walking by and it looked interesting so I stopped in. So glad I did. I come to Manhattan a couple times a year and I have enjoyed some great places, but this place is now my favorite. The food was great, the service amazing and the ambiance was perfect with the candle lit tables, a pianist playing beautiful music of yesterday and almost today… I really can’t give this place enough props. Thank you so much Alfredo for the best meal experience I have ever had in NYC.

  • Review 115 (2024-01-31 - Rating: 5)

    Very quaint and relaxing atmosphere. Piano player was perfect for background music and the staff were exceptional.

  • Review 116 (2019-09-02 - Rating: 5)

    Came during restaurant week and thoroughly enjoyed myself! I had the lamb which was amazing. My friend had the chicken which was also delicious, as was his soup. My prosciutto and melon was my favorite appetizer though. While we dined, there was a live pianist setting the mood which made for a lovely background.

  • Review 117 (2024-01-06 - Rating: 5)

    A great place to come for dinner and. A drink before a show. The service is classically professional. The ambiance is beautiful. The piano player is wonderful and the food is great. Not super inventive but very very well done classic French dishes pitched right down the middle. I will be back.

  • Review 118 (2023-05-25 - Rating: 5)

    Cute little restaurant, beautiful music (piano player) The food was outstanding!! And so was the service. Will recommend to all my NY friends.

  • Review 119 (2021-03-10 - Rating: 5)

    I think anything less than 5-stars means it was a disaster, but I enjoyed my brunch at this venerated and storied gem just off the main Broadway strip. Its not a large seating area with about 8-12 tables in a long but narrow set-up with a bar dominating the front left of the establishment and a baby grand in the back for live mic nights. (There is an upstairs space for larger groups.) A 10 larger-than-life painting of Josephine Baker, who the restaurant is named after, is very eye catching, particularly as the highly beloved entertainer is topless, artistically so.The brunch special was a reasonable 3-course $2x prix fixe ($23-$26?). The bloody mary cocktails were served in a small stemmed cocktail glass, at a less reasonable $14. Each. That size would be expected if it were unlimited brunch cocktails, but I was not aware if that was an option. (The owner did bring a complimentary round of prosecco to the table after dessert and some friendly chatting about the place.) With all the challenges of reopening during a pandemic, this seems to have been a strategic choice, and shouldnt deter anyone not on a budget, because the ambience is wonderful with soft jazz and crooners of the 1940s and 1950s on the Pandora Josephine Baker radio station. The decor was in a style of the time, red velvet walls that looked new, transporting the diner back in time. But if your crowd is looking to celebrate with several rounds of drinks, that could really impact your bill.The food had a strong French flair, possibly a bit strong for less cultured palettes, but still very well done. The soupe à loignon (French onion soup) had a strong and generous portion of Gruyère cheese. Very strong and smoky. The chicken paillard was impeccable, nicely flattened and not overcooked so it was still tender and juicy with perfectly blanched greens. The sauce was quite salty, which might be the style, and may not have been from being oversalted, but was a bit much for brunch. The coconut panacotta was a dream. A continental portion, to fit in the palm of your hand, rather than an Applebees heaping portion. The fruit sauce (apricot?) was a perfect blend with the coconut flavor.The staff was also friendly and attentive, and the owner was present and proud of being able to keep a decades-old institution open. Id definitely give it 4.5-stars for creating a special memory, but the drink prices and slight heaviness of the brunch menu means I would probably go more for a special occasion or if particularly in the mood for atmospheric French cuisine. Be sure to ask about the history of the place if they arent too busy!

  • Review 120 (2019-09-14 - Rating: 5)

    Chez Josephine is a New York City staple that I hope stays around for another 50+ years. The food is *excellent* and the ambiance is unmatched, because it is uniquely itself: unassumingly nestled right off of Times Square, its especially perfect for anyone in the Theater District there for a play. When you walk in, youre often greeted by the melody of a live pianist playing tunes reminiscent of Josephine Bakers era. Josephine Baker was the inspiration for the restaurant, which will immediately become apparent, as the walls are decked in portraits of her - hand selected by her adopted son who owned and operated the place until his passing a few years ago. Im not sure who owns the restaurant now, but I hope they simply upkeep the place to its current standards, occasionally refine the menu, but please, please keep the essence of Chez Josephine intact.

  • Review 121 (2021-06-06 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely experience enjoying the Sunday prix fixe brunch for $23, which came with an app, entree, dessert and coffee or tea. The staff were great and the atmosphere is absolutely delightful for anyone who likes a pleasant soundtrack of jazz or just a great ambience/decor with high quality food.

  • Review 122 (2022-02-04 - Rating: 5)

    Restaurant week menu was perfect - lobster bisque, pan fried sea bass, dessert (chocolate ice cream or poached pear). Food is amazing, could tell the chefs are detail oriented. Presentation is nice and service was organized. Can’t speak to the regular menu/prices though.

  • Review 123 (2024-09-10 - Rating: 5)

    I attended a birthday party for a dear friend in the upstairs private dining room and everything was lovely! The room was charming, the food delicious and service professional and attentive. Bravo Chez Josephine!

  • Review 124 (2019-01-11 - Rating: 5)

    Fabulous live piano bar/lounge/restaurant. The unabashed show girl vibe and the integrity of a vintage Parisian has been beautifully maintained in honor of Josephine Baker. True Parisians can be seen sitting at the bar...everyone knows everyone...their thick French accents take you to Paris. Every cocktail is named in relation to Joséphine, a play, a song, an inspiration, her favorites. I had the Hungry Heart cocktail, per the bartender’s suggestion. LOVED it. Strong, rich, smooth, tart but not too sweet. I will absolutely be back!

  • Review 125 (2018-02-25 - Rating: 5)

    So french, so chic: the plates are just the right size and they are so so tasty! A guy played live the piano the entire evening and the waiters were super prompt and helpful! The main dish also came very fast and the food was just at the right temperature! Happy we picked it for supper!

  • Review 126 (2016-06-05 - Rating: 5)

    If youre looking for an experience, travelling in time, in NYC, this is a good place.Opened and managed by one of Josephine Bakers adopted sons, this restaurants is very unique by its decor, its music, its vibe.Ive been going there for the past 8 years, mainly for brunch. Great service, good food and a pianist that plays classic songs of Broadway etc.Always a pleasure to go back, never disappointed.

  • Review 127 (2024-12-05 - Rating: 5)

    Always amazing! Fantastic food, service, and atmosphere!

  • Review 128 (2024-08-01 - Rating: 5)

    My favorite place whenever I have to visit NYC! Incredible boho design and live music all the time. Great food and top notch cocktails. Alfredo is the best host ever!

  • Review 129 (2022-09-05 - Rating: 5)

    The live piano was delightful. Loved the food, atmosphere, drinks, and friendliness. Will definitely be back soon.

  • Review 130 (2021-03-15 - Rating: 5)

    Quaint place with a flare for the 1930s that has a personal touch of history pertaining to Josephine Baker. The Duck was exquisite and the best duck Ive had by far. My family was treated so perfectly and personally that theyve left a lasting impression as one of the best, if not the best, restaurants weve ever been to. Thank you so much for taking care of my family the way you did. ❤

  • Review 131 (2024-11-27 - Rating: 5)

    Great place with such a classy vibe and atmosphere.

  • Review 132 (2022-03-03 - Rating: 5)

    Great atmosphere in this local hotspot.Ditch the tourists and come for live music, excellent food and great service!

  • Review 133 (2019-06-09 - Rating: 5)

    My personal favorite when visiting the Big Apple!! Beautiful, ornate! Dont miss the bathrooms, hehe!Beef Wellington with marble potatoes & truffle sauce!!! Actually everything is so top notch!! Lobster bisque is divine & French onion soup is perfect!! Service is impeccable and has been everytime since my first visit in 1993!!!This place is old school service-wise and classic French gourmet food!! Pianist mostly playing period pieces from Josephine Bakers time. Artwork is mostly of her also.

  • Review 134 (2017-09-26 - Rating: 4)

    Cute and cozy restaurant with a live piano performance. The piano music was lovely throughout the evening. The food was good, but was not amazing as Ive come to expect from New York restaurants.We had the duck and lamb, two of their most popular dishes.

  • Review 135 (2022-07-11 - Rating: 4)

    This is now quite a bit more than a few weeks ago. I sent the below message the Chez Josephine 10 weeks ago, hoping to keep this issue private. No one ever responded. So...A few weeks ago I ate at your restaurant for the first time in a long time, for the first time since Jean Claude passed. Perhaps it is because I was used to his welcoming and convivial attitude that I was extra taken aback by the attitude of the maître d who greeted and seated us.For a reason that I did not feel was necessary to explain to the maître d, I (a woman) requested to sit in the chair, allowing my date (a man) to have the banquette seat. The maître d made a deliberate point of telling our party that it was customary for the woman to sit at the banquette. I informed him that knew that, but still preferred the seat I had chosen. Instead of accepting my answer with the grace and discretion befitting someone in the hospitality industry, he rolled his eyes and made a comment under his breath. This would be unacceptable at Applebees, let alone an establishment like Chez Josephine, which I routinely refer to as my favorite restaurant--anywhere.My date and I were both made to feel uncomfortable and embarrassed because of your maître ds attitude and insinuations--I because he was insinuating I was too uncouth to know better, and my date because of the insinuation that he wasnt treating his date appropriately.So, since this is now an issue, Im going to explain something I dont feel really should be necessary, but apparently is. People with post-traumatic stress disorder often experience heightened anxiety if they are seated with their back to a crowd; the banquette offered a much safer position. That is why I selected my seat, and why my date sat where he did. Not because either of us are ill-bred, lacking manners or generally clueless as to how to behave in a restaurant such as Chez Josephine.The attitude of your maître d was rude, condescending, and inappropriate. If my date had made a request for a menu modification due to an allergy, would your staff roll their eyes and make rude remarks then as well? Choosing to sit in a particular seat because of PTSD is as much a medical accommodation as an allergy menu item substitution.All we were planning on doing that night was going to dinner and a show to celebrate our anniversary. I was looking forward to introducing my partner to Chez Josephine. However, after the experience we had recently had, I deeply regret having ever taken him there.

  • Review 136 (2019-03-31 - Rating: 5)

    Really good meal. Very nice restaurant. Attentive wait staff. And we all enjoyed our dinners. My lobster cassoulet was delicious. My dining partners liked their ribeye steak and duck entrees. The lemon torte brulee was a perfect dessert.

  • Review 137 (2022-06-25 - Rating: 5)

    Very attentive service. Great selection in price fixe menu. Huge portions. Lovely ambience, just like a bistro in Paris. Live piano music & singer.

  • Review 138 (2019-09-08 - Rating: 5)

    Had a fabulous time... Food is pretty tasty. Had the Chinese Ravioli and Chicken breast along with Calamari, and Shrimp dish.... other than the food, I particularly enjoyed the nights band and had a FABULOUS opportunity to experience the Birthday celebration of Janet Dewart Bell. Janet, youre ICONIC!

  • Review 139 (2022-03-13 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing food, customer service, & atmosphere. We were so fortunate to have alfredo & cassidy as our servers, they were so friendly, attentive, & a riot to be near. Thank you so much for the dinner, we’ll be back next time we stop in New York again.

  • Review 140 (2023-02-01 - Rating: 5)

    The place was very crowded on a week night, and we waited even with a reservation. The atmosphere is great though (very red,) and we sat upstairs where it was less crammed but a little too warm. Entrees, wine, and dessert were all pretty good, and my fiancé loved the blood sausage, and its a rare dish apparently.

  • Review 141 (2023-02-14 - Rating: 5)

    French cooking. Everything with butter. Farmers omelet with veggies. Dish made no butter, good for gluten, fat and dairy free!Piano music live and delightful.

  • Review 142 (2018-08-27 - Rating: 5)

    Great food and great service!Loved the live music!The food was absolutely great and being it was our first time there the preset menu was a great choice. We had the sea bass and leg of lamb as main and a Watermelon, French Feta and Mint and duck liver Mousse as Appetizers finishing off with a Mango-Coco Parfait Glacé and French vanilla cheesecake. Was absolutely great!Loved the interior decor a nice and romantic setting. Great for a cozy night out with that special someone or a group of friends.

  • Review 143 (2022-03-01 - Rating: 4)

    The food was delicious. The pianist was wonderful and intimate cabaret like setting. The only out of sync issue was what appeared to be inexperienced waiters.

  • Review 144 (2016-02-21 - Rating: 5)

    Impression: Nice restaurant right off the street and just off the craziness of Times Square. It is within walking distance of Times Square / Theater District / Hells Kitchen though. Upon walking in you are greeted with seemingly over the top french decor, but its charming.Experience: We made a reservation (highly recommended because it was busy) and were immediately seated upon our arrival. We dined about 5:30pm on a Saturday. We were asked by the host if we preferred to be seated closer or further from the piano player, of which we requested a moderate place because I enjoy piano music but still wanted to be able to have conversation. We started with a bottle of wine (Brouilly, Chateu de la Chaize, Beaujolais 2012) per the recommendation of a wine similar in body and spirit to a pinot noir. The wine was served chilled based on the recommendation of the wine connoisseur (maybe a sommelier?) and it was delightful and light to the palate. I would liken it to a red savignon blanc... it would not compliment well a red meat though. For appetizer we ordered Maine lobster bisque and french onion soup. My partner enjoyed his french onion soup (despite it being lava hot for a long time) but I LOVED my lobster bisque. Like this is the appetizer to get, seriously. For entree my partner ordered the chicken breast and I ordered the halibut special. My partners chicken tasted delicious and I enjoyed my halibut, but the lobster bisque was served under quinoa and that absorbed much of the bisque to my disappointment (yes, there was lobster bisque in both of my dishes, dont judge me). Dessert we had coffee and creme brulee which was also delicious.Conclusion: This location is definitely one of my favorite NY restaurants yet. The total price of the meal for us was $170 (bottle of wine, two appetizers, two entrees, two coffees, one dessert). The price was not cheap but was worth the quality of the food you received and the great atmosphere. I will definitely bring other friends to this location next time I visit New York.Good for: small groups, dates, romantic dinner, high-quality dinner, pre-theater dining, wine menu

  • Review 145 (2015-01-30 - Rating: 5)

    Thanks to the love and expertise of Jean-Claude Baker, Chez Josephine is simply the best restaurant in Manhattan! The wait staff makes an effort to be so well mannered and elegant in their approach to serving their customers. The restaurant is wonderfully unique in design, immaculately clean and the food is the closest thing you can get to perfection!My heartfelt condolences to the Chez Josephine family and all who loved Jean-Claude Baker.

  • Review 146 (2018-12-19 - Rating: 5)

    Warm and cozy atmosphere with live piano and delicious food. This is my second time here. Ordered from a prefix menu - food was good and portions are quite large. Will surely come back.

  • Review 147 (2023-07-06 - Rating: 5)

    I was in NYC for a short trip from San Francisco and had dinner with a good friend here. The ambiance, service and food all deserve 5 stars. We could not have asked for a more exciting decadent delicious experience. Cannot wait to visit again in a few weeks. Thank you!

  • Review 148 (2018-07-31 - Rating: 5)

    Part of the wonderful eclectic neighborhood story that is Hells Kitchen NYC. Manuel and his team make you feel welcome and let you stay to enjoy the music and ambiance. Im a big fan of the fried chicken but the snails and trout were amazing as well. Try on a Monday to enjoy a slower pace and live music. Gracias Manuel!

  • Review 149 (2019-05-09 - Rating: 4)

    Solid yet slightly over-priced food, great decor, good service - and they make proper cocktails! The downside? The overly cramped airplane seating - they could remove just ONE table for two to allow for a bit more privacy and avoid a face full of butt as your neighboring diner gets up from their table.

  • Review 150 (2018-06-13 - Rating: 5)

    Fabulous wine, food, environment, + service! I lost my cc + they safely had it for me --- thank u !!!

  • Review 151 (2019-05-28 - Rating: 5)

    Chez Josephine sets the bar for me on French cooking. Their signature lobster bisque is a sublime balance of brown butter. I love how their food isnt camouflaged in butter and salt so the flavors of the food really shine. Cozy. The perfect couples spot.

  • Review 152 (2022-06-29 - Rating: 5)

    Great service, superb cuisine ~ looking forward to the next visit!

  • Review 153 (2023-11-14 - Rating: 5)

    This is a beautiful dining room that looks like it was grabbed from Paris of the 1940s. The food is classic, simple, and done with care. The service was spot on. It is located near the theaters and serves early to accommodate those that want to eat before a show.

  • Review 154 (2018-10-18 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent crab cakes, salad, spinach with chilli paste. Classic profiterole. Attentive wait staff. Eric is wonderful on the piano. Laid back, pleasant warm environment.

  • Review 155 (2016-05-14 - Rating: 5)

    Weve been coming here for YEARS. Did you know it was a massage parlor before becoming a restaurant. The memory of Josephine Baker and her son Jean Claude can be felt within these walls.They would be so proud to know the quality of the food and service honor their memories.Its a MUST do on your list of NYC places to dine.

  • Review 156 (2022-01-01 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing. Authentic French cuisine. Wonderful atmosphere. The BEST service. I got goosebumps eating some of these dishes.We went for the New Year’s Eve early dinner, what a treat!The macaroons are like the ones I had in Lyon, France at the Institute of Paul Bocuse (the top French culinary school).Expect premier steakhouse quality steaks and cuts of meat, prepared perfectly. We are quite picky, and goodness it was some of the best cuts of meat we’ve had. I got the rack of lamb and my husband got the filet.The cocktails are amazing as well. I loved the Bakertini, a little sweet but not too much. There was a spicy margarita my husband (the spicy lover) thought was quite tasty.Love jazz piano by a skilled vocalist, just lovely. Her name is Sheree Sano.Overall. A perfect experience. Please treat yourself to this slice of France.

  • Review 157 (2023-01-07 - Rating: 5)

    We had a mini family reunion at Chez Josephine. Great atmosphere. Live piano player. A delight.

  • Review 158 (2020-02-22 - Rating: 5)

    Never a false note when we go there. After 25 years, it is still our go to restaurant for out if town guests. Today, three friends from France raved about the Salmon appetizer, the Eggs Beneduct and the Spaghetti Bolognese. My Pate appetizer and Parisian Omelet were sublime.

  • Review 159 (2023-07-25 - Rating: 5)

    The food was great! I enjoyed the live piano playing and the decorations around the place.

  • Review 160 (2021-08-15 - Rating: 4)

    Beautiful sophisticated venue. Decorated lovely with the images of Josephine Baker.

  • Review 161 (2021-10-09 - Rating: 5)

    The service was exceptional, sat outside, took our time and ordered, did not feel rushed at all. Just walked in without a reservation. Had the black Angus filet mignon au piovre, roasted breast of long Island duck and spaghetti bolognese. More than enough for three people. Desert was the coconut panna cotta. Really enjoy being out again.

  • Review 162 (2021-06-12 - Rating: 4)

    This place was awesome. The atmosphere took you all the ways back in time. The playing of the piano just added extra to the experience. From th appetizer to the entree was great.I would certainly be back for any special occasions

  • Review 163 (2021-09-12 - Rating: 5)

    This is a very fancy restaurant that everything is just proper (environment, taste, freshness). If your budget allows, try!:)

  • Review 164 (2018-08-09 - Rating: 5)

    Delicious food and amazing atmosphere!

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