Florent
This restaurant is closed!
Address:
69 Gansevoort St (bet Greenwich & Washington Sts)
City:
New York, NY
Zip:
10014
Phone:
(212) 989-5779
Site:
Visit the restaurant site
Map:
Map
Cuisine:
French
2nd Cuisine:
French (Bistro)
Area:
Meatpacking District
Entree Price:
$15-20
Payment:
Cash only
Review:
It was bitterly cold near the river. The winds were whipping. The cobblestone streets nearly deserted. And here I was alone in the center of the meatpacking district.
There was no-one to meet at Meet (at least not at eight in the evening), and the crowds were sparse at Pastis and Spice Market. Then I found myself in front of Florent, a French bistro and neighborhood fixture that’s been around long before the others arrived. One look through the window and I could see why.
The place was alive, offering a bit of warmth on a cold winter night. It was packed and loud, and its occupants quite satisfied and happy. I squeezed my way to the counter and worked my way to toward the back where I was greeted with “What can I get you sailor,” from my blonde-haired waitress. I instantly felt at home. No longer alone. No longer a stranger in a strange place. The only other waitress, with a big bouffant, was barking out orders to the kitchen as I sat taking in the scene.
At this point, I was looking to warm up and ordered a bowl of onion soup with French Gruyère and crouton ($7.50). The rich, slightly sweet broth was instantly fulfilling.
So was the huge bowl of perfectly clean, steamed Prince Island mussels in a white wine sauce ($12.95) served with a heaping helping of fries. Then I realized I had made a huge mistake as I watched the kitchen produce delicious-looking steak frites, grilled salmon and filet mignon au poivre with whipped potatoes and sautéed spinach.
But then I thought what better reason to return!
Review By: Sam Sayegh