Le Rivage

Went to celebrate my mom's bday. We set there for almost 2 hours, were done with food and paid the bill. But the conversation was flowing and we didn't leave right away. We paid cash and included good tip. Waitress decided that tip was too much and brought the change. We left it and didn't take. The other waitress came along and asked why we left such a small tip... That was embarrassing for my dad as she asked in-front of our guests. He explained how much he left and this was just a change.... She went and confirmed this with our waitress, then came back and apologized...But the mood was already ruined and we were unhappy with such service. Ridiculous. Tip is always voluntary and should never be questioned!!! And sad part is we left such a good tip that our waitress decided to give some back!!!!

Pros: Good location, interesting design

Cons: Service

Posted 11/15/09

Maybe we experienced this place on an off night, but I did not have 4 1/2 star food or service at Le Rivage on my recent visit. I had the "Artichoke and tomato salad" which consisted of a few lettuce leaves, 2 slim slices of tomato and 4 pieces of artichoke that looked and tasted like they had come out of a can. It looked like a plate you would get at a roadside (and I mean highway) cafeteria in Europe- minus the cellophane wrap. The main course, Coq au Vin was terribly dry and accompanied by very bland and also dry, not to mention uninteresting red potatoes and a birds nest of some unidentifiable vegetable, perhaps parsnip. It came off as a meal that had either been long prepared (a la a hotel banquet meal that sat in the hot box too long) or it had been microwaved. My husband's salmon tasted as though it had been pulled out of the Hudson- last week. Yuck. Dessert held little hope for us and we weren't surprised by the quality of the creme brulee which again smacked of something pre-prepared/frozen/purchased through a vendor like Sysco and definitely not made on premises , nor made recently. It was the worst creme brulee I have had; and I have liked creme brulee ever since the first time I had it in Paris when I was 12. It seemed to me by the staff on hand that the proprietors are not French, nor are the cooks (and I mean cook and not chef), which could be part of the issue. I regretted choosing this restaurant as the location where I had my last meal in New York before I left the next day. Talk about leaving a bad taste in your mouth.

Pros: Ambiance

Cons: everything else

Posted 06/17/09

Having read the reviews on city search my boyfriend and I decided to treat ourselves to a romantic night out. We were the only people in the restaurant which was concerning but we sat down and ordered. Although we ordered completely different meals it appeared we both had the same brownish sauce. Everything seemed to be made from this one sauce. We had the fixed price menu and they managed to get through all three courses in 40 minutes; this would have been fine if we were heading to a show but we weren't we were after a nice lesuirely meal. The service was good but it is certainly not a 4 and half star place and I wanted to let people know that perhaps this place has gone downhill somewhat and perhaps go somewhere else.

Pros: Location

Cons: Food and decor

Posted 04/13/09

SO me and the boyfriend did a Valentine lunch, cause of our hectic schedule. This restaurant has been here for like 40+ years so you;ll find a lot of umm Mature people in here during the lunch on saturday for the cheap prix fixe meal. and its opens at 12. we were there by one. the place was packed. its very popular. every course was so delicious, I couldn't believe it. cause there is always one course that's just okay.Not the case here. We both agreed its the best french food we had on restaurant row. and will definitely y come back again.

Posted 02/14/09

Aside the food being fantastic, the french Marie antonette fashion show was excellent and in very good taste. The designer was from Providence, R.I. and had the pleasure of meeting her at the restaurant. Her name was Bruna from Bruna Costumes . They make original designed gown, hats and wigs. The french would be envious

Pros: excellent food and atmosphere

Cons: none

Posted 01/27/09

I found the restaurant in need of a renovation. Its 1960s decor was not comfortable and its rest rooms were worse than Penn Station. The food is ok for someone just getting familar with French food but I would not suggest it for an experienced person. The presentation was awful. Coq Au Vin served with a lump of mashed potatoes and a few carrot stix . The Chinaware resembled something that was purchased from an OLD Greek Diner. The French Onion soup was no better than one can get at Cosmos Diner on 23rd Street. None of the dishes were bad. They were all decent. But with wine and tip the bill was $60.00 per person. I can get a much better meal in NYC for that price.

Pros: Traditional French Cuisine most people would be familar with

Cons: Traditional French Cuisine you can find in a Greek Diner.

Posted 12/27/08

This is one of the few restaraunts I remember really well. The food is unbelievable. I remember that the first time I came in I had the Salmon and it was the best I ever had. The servers were friendly and knowledgeable about the food and wine had a really nice relaxing dinner .I cant wait to go back.

Posted 12/07/08

Came here during lunch with a bunch of coworkers for my birthday. This isn't the best french food I've ever had, but the place does a great job of combining charm, convenience, and overall good experience. The food was around the price I'd expect for this type of place and area. In a great unassuming alley, there are places to eat outdoor or indoor on a colder day. Service was slightly slow, but since we were just taking a long lunch it didn't matter as much. Generally, everyone was happy with their food. I had the salmon and it was perfectly cooked. I would reccomend to anyone.

Pros: foods

Cons: slow service

Posted 10/01/08

This is not a trendy bistro, or brasserie but an honest to god real french restaurants. Not the same generic menu that you find all over. The food was great with plenty of authenticly prepared classic dishes. The service was very nice and the owner was very visible, how nice for a change.
Will return with friends and even more friends
Great experience

Pros: everything

Cons: none

Posted 09/07/08

Super low quality food. Chewy and over cooked steaks/meats. Tinny portions. Bad service. Cocky waiters. Overly priced. It's too dark. It's depressing. Creating a romantic atmosphere doesn't necessarily mean too dark. Unless you're creating a cave.

Pros: ?

Cons: Food ad Service!

Posted 07/05/08

The ambience at Le Rivage was good and there was enough space between tables to have a private meal. The service was attentive but not intrusive and the food really was good with a fantastic wine list to match.
I came here for an intimate dinner for two but would also happily bring a bigger group of girl friends to Le Rivage to sample some wine before dinner too. The only con is its a bit overpricey, you should be ready for a real bill.

Pros: Nice wine list and tasy food

Cons: overpricey

Posted 05/06/08

Great french food and fast, attentive service for pre-theatre diners. Dinner menu is prix-fixe and very reasonable. Owners are visible and make sure the waitstaff is paying attention. Charming, casual atmosphere is relaxing and very french. I plan to return.

Pros: great food, fast service, near Broadway theatres

Posted 03/31/08

I made a reservation for a party of 8 and we were seated promptly. The staff and manager were very friendly. The prix fixe menu has a large variety to choose from. Food was excellent, especially the roasted duckling! Will definitely go back and recommend.

Posted 01/28/08

I went with my family and my dad got the bill, but I still went with the Prix Fixe menu. First, the service was wonderfully proud. When asked for a recommendation, our server said, "Well, this is a French restaurant, so of course the duck." The coat check costs a dollar. I had the duck terrine as appetizer and it was wonderful. The chicken cordon bleu was a little rich in the sauce department, but overall very tasty. The cheesecake was not particularly memorable, a tad on the flakey side, but I had a bite of my sister's mousse and found it to be not too bland, not too rich--just right. Our beaujolais nouveau was good as well, but I noticed a bit pricey.

Pros: Good food, charming service

Cons: Decor was sort of trying too hard. as was the music

Posted 12/26/07

Charming & traditional French restaurant. Good food and service. Prix Fixe menu is the way to go!
$35 for large appetizer (large selection), salad, and choice of many, many entrees. Duck was good, lamb chops were really nice. Price included dessert & coffee.

If you go after 8:00 p.m., the price is only $25. Where in NYC can you eat all that for good prices?

Pros: huge menu choices, well prepared, and excellent service

Cons: wine is pricey.....

Posted 09/15/07

My inlaws introduced my wife and I to Le Rivage more than 25 years ago. I can assuredly say that in that time, Marcel and Paul have never created nor served a bad meal to us or any of our guests. In fact, if Paul knows we're coming, he'll prepare his famous Le Rivage peas as a side dish for us. The wait staff has always been pleasant, helpful and professional. We have recommended Le Rivage to family, friends and business associates because of the food and price value of the meals. My children now frequent the restaurant as well when they are in NYC. There has always been a table for my wife and I after the schlep in from Jersey with one exception when we forget to make a reservation (only one of many times with no reservation). I do strongly suggest a reservation, especially for pre-theatre dining. And, we have brought our theatre groups in for luncheons on many occassions and they, too, become patrons. Not only is the decor cozy, but in my opinion, Marcel treats all his guests as if they are long time patrons. Le Rivage is a must dining experience, especially if you're on a budget for gourmet french or a simply great meal.

Posted 07/17/07

WE HAVE BEEN GOING TO LE RIVAGE FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS. NEVER HAD A BAD OR SO SO MEAL . ALWAYS GREAT. SERVICE IE COURTEOUSAND ABOVE THE PLATES ARE NOT THROWN ON THE TABLE, BUT PLACED WITH A WARNING THAT THE PLATES ARE HOT. MEALS ARE NOT RUSHED AND AMPLE TIME IS GIVE TO EACH PERSON TO ENJOY THE MEAL. WINE LIST IS GREAT.

Posted 07/16/07

I am a resident of New Jersey and I look forward to our occasional visits to New York City. Whether it is to go to a museum, shop or attend a play, my visit is never complete without going to Le Rivage, my favorite restaurant. Over the years, I have introduced many of my friends to this charming restaurant in the heart of the theatre district and we have never been disappointed.
I most always order the duck, because I have never found another restaurant that could match the preparation of this delicious dish. When I find a good thing, I stick with it! While I have tried several of the other entrees and have enjoyed each one as well, I still consider the duck to be my favorite.
The decor at LeRivage allows for a very pleasant relaxing dining experience. If you are going to a show, the waitress generally will inquire if you need to leave at a certain time and with their friendly ,efficient service we have never missed a curtain call!
Thank you LeRivage for many enjoyable meals, we look forward to returning for more!

Pros: Great food, friendly service, lovely decor .

Cons: None

Posted 04/23/07

I created this citysearch account specifically because this restaurant was so bad. I went there on my friend's recommendation. He said his parents used to eat there when they were dating. Well, things must of changed. My date ordered lobster bisque, which was yellow in color. She said she was pretty sure it came out of a can. I ordered duck pate. It was easily the worst tasting food I've ever had in a fancy restaurant. They noticed us avoing the food on our plates so they brought us a plate of raw asparagus with creamy italian salad dressing as a courtesy. Thanks for that one, Le Rivage.

The "filet mignon" I had for an entree was drenched in a sauce that I'm pretty sure came out of a packet of powder from the grocery store.

Wow. I kid you not. I have no idea how this restaurant has such high ratings. I have pretty typical taste in food, and I'm not hard to please. But I would rather have raw macaroni for dinner than eat here ever again.

Pros: Courteous staff

Cons: Awful food. Awful, awful food.

Posted 12/10/06

This is a great place for pre- and post-theater dinners. The food is traditional, beautifully prepared and very reasonably priced. Where else can you get a prix fixe for under $25 that includes 4 courses (yup, they're so French they give you salad as well as a generous appetizer)? The wine list isn't stunning, but it has some good bottles and is likewise reasonably priced. Cozy enough to be romantic, brightly enough lit to go with friends. Friendly, capable service (the waitresses are Polish, the hosts French), Piaf and the like playing in the background, and pleasing decor make for a really wonderful experience.

Pros: Reliable French cuisine, good service, reasonable prices

Cons: None, really.

Posted 07/19/06

My wife and I often dine at Le Rivage before attending an evening performance. Best to arrive before 6:30 pm. The staff is friendly and experienced at getting customers out in time for the curtain. The food is always well prepared. Melon and proscuitto and escargo are great appetizers, the duck is always good and they make a hearty french-style beeef stew.

Posted 07/19/06

I went to this restaurant this past weekend, with my fiancee. We enjoyed the whole french experience. We have to bone up on our french though. I ordered the frog legs which seemed more like an appetizer than a main course. Glad I filled up on bread. I also had coquille soup which was wonderful; shrimps and scallops, in some kind of sauce. The frogs legs did taste weird, almost like chicken, but not close enough to where I did not rememeber what I was eating. My girl had the Monkfish. that was good, I ate some of it. A girl sitting next to me had duck, which was what I shoulda ordered. When I go back (hint hint), I will get the duck. Oh and the Chocolate mousse was extravagant! Service was somewhat slow, but thats time to enjoy your company. I know I did. Go eat here!

Posted 01/24/06

All of the Restaurant Row restaurants have to be good in order to survive, but Le Rivage outdoes them all: sumptuous entrees, wonderful desserts, and an appetizer display that'll knock your socks off. And all for a fabulous prix fixe that goes beyond being merely economical. If you're from out of town and doing the Midtown activities, this is the one restaurant you shouldn't miss.

Pros: Excellent value, Excellent staff

Cons: Somewhat small

Posted 12/08/05

My wife and I have eaten at this restaurant several times over the past two years, both pre and post theatre, and never been disappointed. Also the prix fixe menu has far more choices on it than most of the competition in the area. We have tried a wide variety of the entrees and desserts all of which were very good. Pre theatre can get a bit busy but it never has affected the food, service or ambience and we highly recommend this place. You can be sure we'll be back.

Pros: good food, good service, ambience

Cons: none

Posted 08/17/05

I browsed through the reviews of other patrons of this restaurant before I visited it today. The food is good especially it's a $18 lunch comees with 4 courses. You hardly find such a good value with such a tasty lunch in Manhattan! The restaurant is quiet and the service is good. I found the waitresses are friendly and very efficient. I'll recommend my friends to visit this restaurant and I will go there again! The veal is good but we don't like the salmon, it's kind of over cooked. i want to try out other main dishes next time. The menu provides a wide of food.

Pros: good , big portion, comfortable setting

Posted 08/12/05

I came to this restaurant for dinner, without a reservation. There was plenty of room. The prix fixe is a great deal. The food was outstanding. I've tried the baked mussels, the lobster bisque and the veal piccata. All were impeccable. I could not ask for better food, especially given that I have paid twice as much for food that wasn't as good at other places. The service was a little off. They were not as accommodating as they could be. However, the food was so good that I didn't care. The decor is very pleasant. I will be coming back to this restaurant and I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Pros: Food, Decor, Prices

Posted 06/30/05

Le Rivage is by far the best of the best when it comes to French food in NYC. The specials are always superb and the wine list is terrific. Great value and you are never rushed. Tell them you need to make a theather curtain and they will make sure you do.

Posted 06/05/05

The owner/family is wonderful. I ate in their resteraunt when I was a little girl and ate frogs legs happily when most kids would have never considered it. Now that I am living in the city and happily married the owner and staff still remember me and treat us like royalty. Why do they serve french fries? Because it's a traditional thing to serve in a French resteraunt - if you don't understand that you probably shouldn't be eating in such a wonderful place!!

Posted 06/05/05

The food is excellent always. The fish dishes melt in your mouth. If you are a meat lover, you will receive your order cooked, as requested. The serves is impeckalbe. If you should arrive late. No problem. Let know you will that eight o'clock curtain call.

Pros: Good Parking, Inexpensive, Fresh Food

Cons: none

Posted 06/03/05

Took my teenage daughter for a NYC French Restaurant experience. It was perfect. The prix fix lunch menu was failry priced and offered many options. It's close the theaters and service was very good. We liked the cozy atmosphere and will return.

Pros: good service, fairly priced, cozy atmosphere

Cons: not fancy

Posted 06/03/05

When we visit New York we always include dinner at LeRivage. The location is great for pre-theatre. The food is always good and the atmosphere is quiet enough to have conversations at your table, unlike some places. The service is prompt and the atmosphere is friendly. We have always had a most enjoyable time.

Pros: in theatre district

Posted 06/03/05

This is the ONE place we always go when visitng NYC from NC. The staff is friendly and helpful, the prix fix choices suit all tastes, the food is wonderful (especially the sweetbreads entree and sole bon femme), and the value can't be beat. We've never been disappointed with Le Rivage in 8 years!

Pros: Great Food, Great Value, Prompt Service

Cons: Decor is dated

Posted 06/03/05

The prix fixe menu was quite extensive. For $22 I got baked mussels, steak bordelaise (a kind of red wine sauce), and creme caramel (flan). My party of 6 didn't go in expecting much, especially considering the place was pretty empty on a Thurs. night at 7:30, but everyone was pretty pleased, and there were many choices on the menu (around 15 entrees). The service wasn't spectacular, but it was acceptable.

Pros: good value, good for groups, prix fixe choices

Posted 06/30/04

One of the best Restaurants I have been. The Food is great and the workers are good.

Pros: Good Food, Good Parking, Very Polite

Posted 11/30/02

If you are expecting excellent french food look elsewhere. Deserts are terrible and duck is dry.
But if you want to get to the show on time and are not very picky about food this place does the job well. THe wait staff is courteous and fast

Posted 06/20/02