Seemor
Monsieur Bistro RestaurantB+Worth Trying
853 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10065
· French restaurant, Dessert restaurant, Health food restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (149 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming Upper East Side French bistro with standout classics, a cult-favorite XL cookie, and warm hospitality, but service consistency and pricing can disappoint during busy periods.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Monsieur Bistro delivers solid neighborhood bistro dining with strong food quality anchored by standout dishes like steak au poivre and branzino, paired with exceptional Parisian ambiance that captures authentic charm. However, inconsistent execution during peak service and slower pacing prevent it from reaching grade A territory—reliable but not exceptional enough for the area's premier dining tier.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and intimate with soft lighting and Parisian touches. Guests highlight genuinely kind service on many visits, though some nights run slow. One diner summed it up: "It felt like a cozy corner of Paris, and the branzino sang." In the kitchen, the approach is classic French cooking with polished bistro staples rather than showy fusion. Expect peppercorn-sauced steaks, well-seared fish, rich braises, and a cult-favorite XL cookie for dessert. When the line hits, execution can wobble, but on form it delivers satisfying, ingredient-led plates. Families will find it surprisingly suitable. Kids can share burgers, fries, simple pastas, and ice cream scoops; brunch is frequently praised with children. Vegetarians get salads and ravioles, but there are limited meat-free mains—ask staff to clarify stocks for soups and sauces.
At a Glance
- Charming Parisian ambiance and welcoming hospitality
- Standout dishes include Steak au Poivre, branzino, and the XL cookie
- Service can be slow with order errors at peak times
- Limited vegetarian mains and occasional stock miscommunication
- Expect UES pricing; mains $36-$55
What Sets It Apart
- signature_XL_cookie
- true_Parisian_ambiance
- neighborhood_regulars_culture
What People Love
- Parisian vibe that feels authentic
- Attentive staff who guide choices
- Branzino and steak frites done right
- The warm, shareable XL cookie
Points of Concern
- Busy services can mean long waits and order mistakes; several brunch delays reported
- A few diners found dishes under-seasoned or lukewarm
- Vegetarian options limited; confirm broth and sauce bases
- Pricing is premium for the neighborhood and may feel high for simpler items
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$70-95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Branzino ($37) with green beans ($12) for a lighter set
- For comfort: Steak Au Poivre ($55) plus fries ($12) and Crème Brûlée ($14)
Perfect For
- Date night in a cozy bistro
- Neighborhood dinner with friends
- Brunch with kids
- Pre- or post-show meal away from Times Square
Location Insights
Area: Upscale Upper East Side corridor with residential buildings, boutiques, and steady neighborhood foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and maintained; comfortable for evening dining.
Nearby: Near Lexington Ave shops, Central Park a short walk west, museums a bit north; office and residential mix.
Lenox HillLenox Hill is characterized by its elegant residential streets and a dining scene that includes high-end restaurants, classic New York delis, and sophisticated cafes. The area is safe, accessible, and frequented by locals who appreciate quality and tradition in their dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →