La Lunchonette

Walking along 10th Ave last night at 8:30 my girlfriend and I stopped in for what we thought would be a lovely dining experience. Instead we were greeted by an snobby French hostess (who epitomized the stereotype) and told us that the empty resteraunt was booked solid. After some persuasiveness we were finally seated. The service was slow and grudging. Drinks were overpriced and the waiter spilled my girlfriend's wine in her pasta and did not offer to comp the meal. This was quite honestly the most disappointing dining experience in New York. Do not eat here unless you like snobs.

I'm astounded that someone has written a review criticising the cassoulet. Is everything about portion size?! This is one of the few places in NY that still does genuinely authentic food from southwest France -- the home of cassoulet. The other great dish here is the brains, if you can handle that sort of thing. Yum, yum, yum... this place is the real deal. The only downside: the service can be a little abrupt... but hey, it's French.

Perfectly pleasant if you are doing the West 20's galleries. The entrees are a bit overpriced. The one jarring note was the cassoulet--$21.50 for the smallest cassoulet I've ever seen. A handful of white beans, with an admittedly tasty duck leg and one small, thin slice of sausage. Lacked variety, spices or character.

I really enjoyed my meal. The atmosphere isn't amazing, but it is cozy, unique, with great authentic french food, and very very reasonable prices. I would highly recommend it if you like a unique french experience that isnt all about the trendy feeling.

Picture yourself in a small restaurant in the French countryside, and wave 10th Ave behind. I've eaten lunch there twice recently and enjoyed it both times. The wine suggested for the lunch was superb! A bit pricey for lunch, but well worth it.