Situated in the bustling heart of New York City’s Theater District, La Grande Boucherie, the renowned French-inspired restaurant that honors its heritage, is tucked in a semi-private hidden pedestrian pathway that runs from West 51st to West 57th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenue.
The restaurant, one of the most beautiful and unique dining spaces in the city, has truly transformed a section of Sixth-and-half Avenue. Situated at 145 West 53rd Street, this delightful Parisian-inspired restaurant brings a touch of Paris to Manhattan.
La Grande Boucherie opened its doors in late November 2020 during a challenging period. The restaurant’s opening challenged the idea that Manhattan was no longer the bustling city it was pre-pandemic and provided patrons and staff with hope that the city that never sleeps was still very much awake.
Emil Stefkov, founder and president of The Group Hospitality, which owns the restaurant, along with director Ben Digiacomo, chronicled the architectural resurrection of 6½ Avenue in New York into an authentic French brasserie from the ’20s in the documentary Making La Grande Boucherie. The film gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look into what it took to create the restaurant during unprecedented times.
RICH HISTORY
Cherry blossom trees decorate the grand entrance, an uncommon sight in New York City restaurants, offering patrons a sensation of stepping into Paris. Before making your way inside, take a moment to soak in the beauty surrounding you.
Located beneath a distinctive glass-covered passage, the glass itself holds a remarkable story. The ceiling pays homage to classic European culture and has touched almost every staple of French culture before making its way here to New York City. This beautiful artwork is also the most prominent feature at La Grande Boucherie.
The outdoor plaza, adorned with a 40-foot glass ceiling and a heated floor, accommodates up to 150 people year-round. Inside, the spacious interior seats over 400 guests, encompassing the dining room, bar, and mezzanine areas.
DINING REDEFINED
Exemplifying Joie de Vivre, La Grande Boucherie serves as a bastion of authentic French dining. Its menu consists of French classics and beloved bistro favorites, fostering a truly genuine French culinary experience in the heart of the city. The extensive wine selection and expertly crafted cocktails further enrich the dining experience.
The restaurant’s dedication to prime cuts of meat is evident, as a section of the interior resembles a traditional meat shop, showcasing an array of meats and cheeses.
With many culinary options to choose from, there is something for everyone. The classic French onion soup is an excellent option for enthusiasts of this beloved dish. For the meat-eaters, there are numerous cuts to choose from, such as the ribeye, NY strip, and beef tenderloin. The filet mignon au poivre, a pepper-crusted beef tenderloin, takes the traditional filet up a notch, and the Wagyu burger, served with a side of pommes frites, is a wonderful alternative to the traditional steak.
Other dishes include roasted duck, lamb stew, roasted chicken, veal chop, swordfish, and branzino, to name a few. Seafood enthusiasts will fall in love with the lobster and oyster bar, while those seeking a lighter start will find an array of meats and cheeses accompanied by a side of fruit and honey.
No meal is complete without something sweet, and La Grande Boucherie’s desserts do not disappoint. The profiteroles, a beloved French classic dessert, consist of light choux pastry filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with a delightful drizzle of chocolate sauce. The presentation is equally as impressive as the dessert itself.
Another equally delicious French dessert is the Paris-Brest. Created in 1910 by chef Louis Durand, the dessert was named after the famous Paris-Brest-Paris bicycle race. Made of choux pastry, like a cream puff or profiterole, this sweet dessert is typically filled with praline-flavored cream and topped with caramelized hazelnuts and Yuzu crème anglaise. This particular pastry is more than just a little slice of heaven. It’s also part of French history.
In addition to these two desserts, the menu features other beloved options such as crème brûlée, a rich dark chocolate tart available with a 23-karat gold option, mini madeleines, and a selection of ice creams and sorbets, to name a few.
Not only does La Grande Boucherie offer a delicious meal, but the staff’s exceptional service, displayed through a warm and welcoming attitude, enhances the dining experience.
Along with the midtown location of Boucherie, there are additional locations in Union Square, the West Village, and one on Christopher Street. For those seeking an authentic Parisian dining experience in the heart of Manhattan, La Grande Boucherie is the ideal destination, seamlessly blending exceptional service with exquisite cuisine.
For more information on La Grande Boucherie, visit boucherieus.com