Parisian Dinner Steps from Central Park and Times Square

A Taste of France in NYC: An In-Depth Look at the Parisian Dinner Experience Near Central Park and Times Square

If you’re craving a genuine Parisian dinner without leaving New York City, this Parisian Dinner offering from Paris Bar might just fit the bill. This 1 hour and 30-minute culinary escape promises a 3-course meal straight from the heart of France, conveniently located just steps from iconic landmarks like Central Park and Times Square. While we haven’t tasted it ourselves, the detailed menu and consistent reviews suggest it’s a well-curated experience designed to transport your taste buds.

What draws us in are the authentic French dishes and the focus on quality—think house-made pasta, perfectly cooked salmon, and classic desserts. We also appreciate the value of including gratuities and a soft drink in the price, making it straightforward for travelers. On the flip side, the relatively short duration might leave some craving a more leisurely or extensive dining experience, especially if you’re used to lingering over meals in France. This tour suits travelers looking for a quick, flavorful taste of France in the city’s bustling heart—ideal for those with a tight schedule or wanting to combine an evening out with sightseeing.

Key Points:

• Authentic French flavor in a compact, 90-minute dining experience
• All-inclusive price covers gratuities and soft drinks for simplicity
• Convenient meeting point near Central Park and Times Square
• Limited group size (up to 10 travelers) for a more intimate setting
• Short duration offers a quick yet satisfying taste of France
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind

What You Can Expect from This Parisian Dinner

This experience is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to enjoy classic French cuisine in a lively NYC setting. Held at Paris Bar 57, the restaurant’s ambiance aims to evoke the elegance of a Parisian bistro, making it a charming backdrop for an evening of good food and conviviality. The entire experience is designed to be simple, efficient, and flavorful, perfect for travelers wanting a taste of France without a long sit-down.

The Itinerary and Menu Breakdown

The core of this experience is the thoughtfully curated 3-course dinner menu, which allows guests to select one dish from each section. This format works well for those who enjoy a bit of variety but prefer to avoid overly lengthy meals.

First Course:
You’ll start with a choice that sets the tone—a crisp Green Salad offers freshness, while the Goat Cheese Croquettes provide a creamy, herbaceous bite, finished with lavender honey for a sweet touch. The Beef Tartare is described as a “refined bistro classic,” featuring bone marrow aioli, a quail egg, capers, cornichon, Dijon mustard, and toast points—guaranteeing a flavorful, texturally interesting start. This dish is perfect if you’re craving the robust, savory flavors of traditional French bistro fare.

Second Course:
Entrées include Fettucine d’Été, a house-made pasta tossed with summer vegetables and beurre blanc, ideal for those who appreciate a lighter, pasta-based dish. Alternatively, Seared Salmon comes with a leek and mushroom hash, complemented by a delicate vichyssoise—a chilled leek and potato soup—creating a balanced mix of richness and refreshment. The Roasted Half Chicken promises herb-infused comfort paired with seasonal vegetables and a rich chicken-glace sauce, while the Steak Frites offers a classic, hearty option with crispy fries and a flavorful ravigote pistou sauce.

Dessert:
The sweet ending features Apple Tart Tatin, a warm, caramelized French classic that many find irresistible, or Profiteroles filled with chocolate mousse and topped with chantilly crème—perfect for chocolate lovers. The Chef’s daily Cookies provide a fresh, baked finish for those craving something light and sweet.

What the Experience Feels Like

The Paris Bar 57 NYC dinner is designed for a quick yet authentic French experience. The restaurant’s location near major landmarks makes it easy for visitors to fit into a busy sightseeing itinerary. You can expect a relaxed atmosphere, where the focus is on high-quality, well-prepared dishes served with friendly hospitality.

The inclusion of soft drinks and gratuities in the price makes planning straightforward, especially for travelers wary of unexpected costs. Since the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, it ensures a more personalized, less rushed dining experience—vital when you’re trying to enjoy a meal amid the city’s hustle.

Value and Practicality

At $75 per person, this experience offers solid value considering the quality of food and the all-inclusive nature of the price. The menu features authentic French dishes, and the portion sizes are generous enough for a satisfying meal without feeling overly indulgent.

While some may wish for a longer dining opportunity, this format is perfect for those wanting a taste of France without dedicating hours. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to combine this meal with sightseeing or prefer a concise, flavor-packed experience.

Accessibility and Logistics

The meeting point at 120 W 57th St is near public transportation, making it easy to reach whether you’re coming from Central Park, Times Square, or other parts of Manhattan. The dinner hours (from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM Monday) provide flexibility, whether you’re ending an afternoon of sightseeing or starting your evening.

Since this activity is limited to 10 guests, it maintains an intimate vibe, but that also means booking in advance is advisable. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking a quick, authentic taste of French cuisine in a lively New York setting. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy a high-quality dinner in a cozy, Parisian-inspired atmosphere without committing to a long, formal meal. It’s also a good pick for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate dining environment.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a full-scale French culinary immersion—it’s a focused, well-executed tasting experience. If you’re craving an elaborate multi-course dinner or an extended leisurely meal, you might find this a bit brief. But for those in a hurry or looking for a fun, flavorful evening, it offers a satisfying and authentic experience.

The Sum Up

In the heart of Manhattan, this Parisian Dinner offers a rare chance to enjoy French classics in a chic yet casual setting. The carefully curated menu, combined with the intimate group size and included gratuities, makes it a practical, enjoyable option. Whether you’re a Francophile or simply curious about French cuisine, this experience delivers a quick yet genuine taste of Paris, right in the city that never sleeps.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine a culinary highlight with sightseeing or those with a limited schedule. The price point offers good value, given the quality of dishes and the all-included setup. If you enjoy well-prepared, authentic food served with friendly service, this dinner could be a delightful addition to your NYC itinerary.

FAQ

Is the dinner experience suitable for vegetarians?
The menu as listed emphasizes dishes with meat and seafood, so vegetarians might need to inquire if options are available or if modifications can be made.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included in the price. Guests must be 21+ to order alcohol separately.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is the meal portioned adequately for dinner?
Yes, the three-course format with a choice of dishes is intended to be satisfying for most guests, offering enough variety and quantity for a complete meal.

How easy is it to get to the meeting point?
The meeting point at 120 W 57th St is near public transportation stations, making it quite accessible from most parts of Manhattan.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Specific accommodations aren’t listed, so it’s best to contact the supplier directly at +1 212-581-8900 or [email protected] to discuss any special needs.

This thoughtfully designed dinner experience provides a memorable, authentic French taste in the middle of New York City—perfect for those seeking a flavorful, quick escape to France without leaving Manhattan.