A French brasserie by definition but a New York institution by reputation, this Keith McNally wonder has been setting the standard for all-day dining since 1997. As soon as we stepped inside, we saw why. The lights glow just right, the mirrored walls reflect a scene straight out of a film, and the clatter of plates blends into a symphony of bustling energy. If New York had a heartbeat, you’d probably hear it here.

The best order? That’s a toss-up between the steak frites, the perfectly briny oysters, or the iconic onion soup. The menu reads like a love letter to the classic brasserie, with every dish executed with a level of precision that turns simple comfort food into something worth crossing the Atlantic for.

McNally, a London-born, New York-made restaurateur, has a knack for creating places that feel like they’ve always existed. Balthazar is the ultimate proof. It’s where you go for a morning espresso and a basket of impossibly flaky croissants, a power lunch that turns into cocktails, or a late-night dinner that reminds you why dining out is an art form.

The adjoining Balthazar Bakery ensures that even those who don’t have time to linger can grab a piece of the experience to take home. Fine ingredients, traditional methods, and a devotion to quality have made it just as much of a staple as the restaurant itself.

So whether you're in for the seafood tower, a champagne-fueled brunch, or just the thrill of being part of the scene, Balthazar delivers. It’s timeless, it’s theatrical, and it’s absolutely essential. Just like New York itself.