When Lawlor Media Group sent me a press release about their client Demarchelier Restaurant, I thought I recognized the name thru the art world, not in regards to a restaurant. I am an art collector with paintings and drawings on every wall of my home. My late father collected most of the work. The French Bistro is owned by artist Eric Demarchelier (his artwork adorns the walls) who began his art career in the 1990s and is managed by his daughter Emily. Marc Tagournet is the executive chef. The original restaurant opened in 1978 and moved to 50 East 86th Street in 1992. That is a lifetime for a New York restaurant. When I realized I had never eaten there, I asked their PR agency to book me for lunch on a Monday. I figured it would be rather empty, especially since it was raining very heavily. I was correct when I arrived at 12:30 but when I left around 2 PM the dining room (capacity 68) was ¾ full. Located a few steps from Madison Ave at 86th Street, it draws neighbors as well as tourists. I sat in the window table and was able to see and hear everyone entering the restaurant.
I started with Onion Soup Gratinée. I like to take a bit of cheese on my spoon and then press the spoon edge against the bowl and break through the layer of cheese to the soup; the soup could have been hotter for my taste. My main course was Steak Tartare with pommes frites which was excellent. The profiteroles for dessert were to die for. The next time I will try their grass-fed organic options brought directly from nearby farms.
The best selling wines on the list are also served by the glass:
White wine - 2017 Domaine Durand Sancerre
Red Wine - 2015 Chateau Francs-Bories St. Emilion
Rose- 2018 Chateau Trians Cote de Provence Rose
My lunch was rather expensive but there is an optional prefix lunch and dinner menu available. Open for lunch, brunch and dinner.
www.demarchelierrestaurant.com
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