Parisian Dinner Steps from Central Park and Times Square

A Detailed Look at the Parisian Dinner Steps from Central Park and Times Square

If you’re craving an evening that feels a little more European without leaving Manhattan, the Parisian Dinner experience offered by Paris Bar might be just what you need. This tour promises a taste of Paris through a carefully curated 3-course dinner, set in the bustling heart of Midtown. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, based on the details available, it looks like a relaxed way to indulge in some French flavors, especially if you’re nearby and looking for a casual but charming night out.

One of the things we really like about this experience is its location and ease of access—it’s close to Central Park and Times Square, making it a convenient addition to a busy day of sightseeing. Plus, the menu offers a nice variety of traditional dishes, from starters to desserts, allowing you to sample a good range of flavors without breaking the bank. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the duration—at about an hour and a half, it’s a fairly quick meal, so don’t expect a leisurely long evening. But if you’re after a solid, flavorful dinner with a hint of Parisian flair, this could suit you well.

Ideal for those wanting a taste of France without committing to a full-blown culinary tour or expensive restaurant experience, this tour might be perfect for food lovers, couples, or even solo travelers who want a cozy, guided meal. It’s also a good choice if you’re staying or exploring in Midtown and want an authentic-feeling dinner that’s not overly complicated.

Key Points

• Convenient Location: Close to Central Park and Times Square, making it easy to combine with your sightseeing plans.
• Affordable Price: At $75 per person, it offers a decent value for a three-course meal in the city.
• Authentic French Flavors: Dishes like beef tartare, seared salmon, and apple tart Tatin bring Paris to your plate.
• Short and Sweet: A 1.5-hour experience, ideal for fitting into a busy NYC schedule.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, which promises a cozy, personalized atmosphere.
• Includes Gratuities and Soft Drinks: No hidden costs, making it straightforward to budget.

What You Can Expect from Your Parisian Dinner Experience

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at 120 W 57th St, a central spot that’s near various subway lines and easily accessible, which means you won’t have trouble finding your way. The tour runs from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, giving you plenty of flexibility to plan your evening around it. Since this is a mobile ticket experience, you can just show your confirmation and get ready to indulge.

The Menu Breakdown

This dinner is all about classic French comfort with a modern touch. The meal kicks off with a starter, where you’ll pick one from options like Green Salad, Goat Cheese Croquettes, or Beef Tartare. The beef tartare, in particular, is a refined bistro staple, featuring bone marrow aioli, a quail egg, capers, cornichon, Dijon, and toast points. This dish hints at the kind of culinary finesse you can expect throughout.

For the second course, you have a choice among hearty, well-prepared mains. The Fettucine d’Été sounds perfect for summer—house-made pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables, finished with beurre blanc. The Seared Salmon offers something lighter, served with leek and mushroom hash, complemented by a delicate vichyssoise (a chilled potato and leek soup). The Roasted Half Chicken delivers a comforting, herb-infused option, paired with seasonal squash and rich chicken gravy. The Steak Frites stays true to Parisian bistros with a classic filet and crispy fries, finished with ravigote pistou—think of it as a flavorful herb and oil sauce.

Desserts bring the sweet finishing touch—either a warm Apple Tart Tatin, a rich and airy Profiteroles, or the chef’s daily cookies. The inclusion of soft drinks, but not alcohol, keeps things casual and straightforward. If you’re looking to pair your meal with wine or cocktails, you’ll need to plan for extra, as these aren’t included.

The Atmosphere and Experience

While the tour doesn’t specify the ambiance, based on the menu and setting, you can expect a European-inspired bistro environment—probably cozy, with elegant plating that elevates comfort food. The focus seems to be on delivering solid, flavorful dishes in a friendly, welcoming setting.

Group Size and Personal Touch

With a maximum of 10 people, you’re likely to get a more intimate experience. This smaller group size encourages interaction and could make for a more relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re someone who enjoys sharing a meal with like-minded travelers or just wants a more personalized dining experience.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $75 per person—including tips and soft drinks—this dinner offers a pretty fair deal for NYC standards. You’re paying for a curated menu with a variety of classic dishes, served in a convenient location. It’s not a lavish multi-course affair, but it’s not meant to be; rather, it’s a straightforward, enjoyable meal that captures the essence of Parisian bistros.

Some reviews note that the food is “delicious and beautifully plated,” making it a nice treat after a day of exploring. Others mentioned it’s great for a casual date night or a relaxed evening with friends. Since the experience is short—about an hour and a half—you might see it more as a delightful dinner stop than a long, drawn-out meal.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits folks who want to enjoy authentic French flavors without fuss, especially if they’re already in Midtown or nearby. It’s a good pick for couples, solo travelers, or small groups who appreciate good, straightforward food in a cozy setting. If you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable evening meal with a Parisian flair, this could fit the bill perfectly. On the other hand, if you’re after a more extensive dining experience or a night with multiple courses and wine pairings, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

The Parisian Dinner Steps from Central Park and Times Square offers a charming, no-fuss way to add a touch of France to your NYC trip. With its central location, well-rounded menu, and intimate setting, it’s a solid option for anyone wanting to indulge in classic French dishes without overextending their budget or schedule.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who value quality food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the convenience of a quick but memorable meal. While it’s not a comprehensive culinary tour or a lavish dining experience, it delivers authentic flavors that can truly brighten an evening in the city. If you’re a fan of French cuisine or simply looking for a cozy, flavorful dinner after a day exploring Manhattan, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu features dishes like beef tartare and seared salmon, so it’s best suited for those who eat seafood or meat. Vegetarians might want to inquire if there are alternative options, but based on the provided menu, it’s limited for plant-based diets.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, soft drinks are included, but alcohol is not. You can purchase alcoholic beverages separately if desired.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Does the experience include transportation?
No, you need to get to the meeting point on your own. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Is the experience family-friendly?
This tour is mainly designed for adults, especially since alcohol isn’t included and the menu is quite typical for adult palates. It’s suitable for most travelers 21+ if they wish to order alcohol.

How long does the dinner last?
The entire experience is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick mid-evening option.

In all, this Parisian Dinner experience looks like a reliable way to enjoy tasty French dishes in the heart of Manhattan without fuss. If you’re nearby and craving a cozy, flavorful meal in a small group, it’s likely worth adding to your NYC plans.