BEST BISTRO IN SOHO
The history of Raoul's is the stuff of neighborhood restaurant dreams. In 1975, two poor Alsatian brothers bought a speakeasylike space in SoHo, and, through little more than perseverance and word of mouth, transformed it into one of the longest-lasting and most beloved (reservations are a must) French bistros in town. Though it may be a bit pricey for today's cash-strapped creatives, a fashionable, Euro-centric crowd still packs the main dining room that retains the laid-back, sexy bistro ambiance of its early days: dark lighting, tin ceilings, chalkboard menus, black booths and art covered walls – for what it's worth, Martin Scorsese found the place compelling enough to use in a scene for The Departed. The French fare is classic and hearty, from the ever-popular rendition of steak au poivre to rack of lamb or the oysters du jour. Raoul's isn't progressive, but people love it, in part because it's changed so little over the years. Reservations suggested. Full bar. Serving dinner and late-night nightly.
Where the Locals Eat rating
Best Bistro in SoHo
Top 100 Restaurant, New York City
"With its Old World touches and its skepticism, for the most part, about the fads that bewitch less durable players, Raoul's has been packing in diners for three decades."
– Frank Bruni, The New York Times, Oct 7, 2005
"Decorated with nudes, jazz portraits, and tin ceiling and walls, this is where Europeans, kitten-like models, and longtime locals linger over thick steak au poivre with crispy frites, and fleshy steamed artichokes with thick dipping vinaigrette."
—New York magazine
"Keith McNally and his parade of copycats have been trying to achieve what Raoul's has been doing since 1975 – serving first-rate French fare in an authentic bistro setting."
—Time Out New York
"The kitchen turns out good, classic French food."
—Michelin New York City
How others rate Raoul's
Zagat 2009
23 food rating (very good to excellent)