La Boite En Bois

I have been living in the area for a long time and a neighbor recommended this restaurant. I am not normally a huge fan of French food but this menu has something for everyone from traditional to unique dishes. I would highly recommend the veal scallopini, roast salmon, and pumpkin soup as an appetizer (when in season). For dessert the chocolate mousse was outstanding (I have not tried any other desserts). Decent wine list and solid service. It's small, but cozy and definitely worth the trip.

Pros: Great Food

Cons: Quaint but small

Posted 11/08/09

arrived at noon to a quiet and quaint space. we were greeted by the owner, who quickly put on his chefs jacket and chatted with us. we ordered the veal, the salmon with cous cous, the whole wheat pasta and the delicate seafood crepes. i cannot do justice to the quality of food, it was impeccable. large chunks of lobster in my crepes! perfect size portions. the warm, crispy rolls were as fresh as could be, the onion soup was not too salty and just the right amount of gruyere. right down to the butter on the table, perfect. of course he makes all the desserts and we chose the tart. lunch special is $25 and dinner pre-fixe is $40. a bit more than typical pre-theater dining, but beyond worth it. it is small space so be sure to make reservations if dining during this time. gino thank you and continued success.

Pros: quaint, super fresh ingredients, knowledgable staff...

Cons: tart was not what i expected

Posted 11/10/08

The oysters on the half shell were icy cold, full of their liquor, delicate Blue Points. Could not be better. Monkfish with saffron sauce was a subtle yet complex with the leeks and mushrooms, and the fish medallions had a perfect texture. The ricotta cheesecake with raspberry coulis had a lemony zing and was light and airy, a perfect finale to a completely pleasant meal.

The staff is lovely. The atmosphere is rustic as one should expect, but it is too cramped. A small price to pay. I'll be a regular -- and I had a feeling I was one of the few who are not, already.

Posted 02/29/08

My husband and I discovered this little gem one Friday evening for dinner and we've gone back again for Sunday brunch the same weekend! Unlike other experiences with many restaurants in NY, it's consistantly great. Fine service, quality of food and not heavy on the salt like many cuisines. Desserts are outstanding too. I hope they will be around for a very long time because it will be our regular place for dining.

Pros: Everything a great NY restaurant should be.

Cons: None.

Posted 01/10/08

Took the boyfriend to La Boite last night for his birthday. We squeezed into our table and were immediately engaged in conversation with two great older couples on either side of us. Our martinis were crisp and cold, the escargot with roquefort was mouth-watering, and the leeks vinaigrette were spectacular. not a bad way to start a night. The boyfriend had a impeccably grilled swordfish for his entree and I was treated to the best entrecote au poivre I've ever tasted. A tender, falvorful cut of meat with the most exquisite cognac and cracked pepper sauce on top, served with julienned veggies and a wedge of shredded potatoes. Just fantastic. The service was great and the overall experience was enough to send us out into the night slightly inebriated and deliciously full.

Pros: Steak, Fairly priced, Friendly service

Cons: Tight squeeze

Posted 05/11/06

I have been to this restaurant many times and tried just about everything on their menu. I have never once been disappointed. This is a place that my family, friends and I would all recommend. The staff makes you feel at home and I love the intimate setting and ambience. It's hard to find a restaurant like this in Manhattan nowadays. One time I got to chat with a couple from out of state sitting next to our table. They used to live in the city and frequented there. They missed their food and service so much that they always make an effor to go back when they are in town. If you are tired of those commericalized, big, fancy restaurants with snotty servers and mediocre food, this is definitely the place for you!

Pros: taste of food, attentive service, feels like home

Cons: accepts cash chk

Posted 02/14/06

I felt right at home in this charming restaurant. It's soft lighting, woodpaneled walls. and antique furnishings provide a very romantic ambiance reminiscent of a French hunting lodge. Our French waiter was highly attentive (and cute!) and made some excellent suggestions. The salmon appetizer is smoked on presence and is the best I've ever tasted. Portions are generous without being excessive. Make sure and leave room for dessert! The chocolate mousse is rich without being overly sweet and the bread pudding is divine. Highly recommended for dates. Also might be good to rent the entire place for a party! Come later (around 8) to avoid the Lincoln Arts center crowd.

Pros: Delicious, Romantic, Attentive service

Posted 08/16/05

I frequent this charming restaurant often and it never ceases to amaze me. The quality of the food is superb. Whether it be lunch or dinner this classic bistro is always on top of my list.

Posted 05/16/05

I've been to this delightful little restaurant several times - with my boyfriend and my family - and have always found the service to be very friendly, prompt and cheerful. The menu is perfect for a pre-theater meal and I've never been disappointed. Definitely recommended.

Pros: friendly, fair pricing, great location

Cons: small

Posted 02/06/03

Despite being late for my reservation and not having that much time before the opera, my date and I were immediately accommodated. Our waiter recommended the specials which were excellent. The service was speedy and efficient. We thought about skipping dessert but the host insisted we have own of his recommendations, which was very thoughtful. For our first time at this restaurant, we were treated like his favorite regulars. - Perez

Posted 11/03/02