But afterwards...we wondered why this ideally located gem- a few blocks from Manhattan's 'Museum Mile' (and mass transit) wasn't a regular dining destination...as it clearly was for the patrons partaking the recent Tuesday evening we went.
Like the best classic Parisian bistros -Demarchelier is warm and inviting-from the minute one steps inside. There's a cozy bar to the right of the entrance-while on the left-a bank of small marble round tables sized for two- stretch along the length of the two dining areas...adorn with white china/linens.The high ceilings hold a few spot lights -while a row of wall sconces- smartly brighten the interior- providing just the right amount of atmospheric light- enhanced by framed reflective mirrors.
The relaxed elegant vibe continues below-with a few small prints hanging alongside the colorful expressive artwork by the proprietor, Eric Demarchelier, a chalk board listing the day's specials, and a round retro clock ... easily transporting patrons to a polished Paris café-for a short time, anyway.
 |
| specials of the day... including daily French selections (Tuesday=coucous) +fixe prix options -3 courses |
What we ate...
A long life-in Manhattan's competitive restaurant scene---automatically conveys a winning menu as well...and Demarchelier's manages that and more-with 'typical' Gallic options (warm appetizers -Helix Escargots de Bretagne with garlic butter & herbs, a quiche of the day, onion soup gratineé, entrées-Coq an Vin, with fingerling potatoes, Hangar Steak with Béarnaise sauce, Moules Mariniere with pomme frites, or a classic Nicoise salad, ending with an iconic dessert-like Crepes Suzette, or a Creme Brulée) -along with enticing 21st century palate pleasers (organic 'farm to table' selections, hearty pastas, or gourmet burgers)... that clearly appeal to the faithful locals, area tourists and notably- native French diners.
 |
| There are several tempting cold appetizers choices for both devoted Francophiles...and typical USA eaters...like the pictured fresh organic red beet plate....with crême fraiche-perfectly accented with a light vinaigrette |
 |
| Avocado Crab salad -with fresh greens-is a crowd fav. The creamy soft avocado and huge tender chunks of moist crab meat-in a crisp shell. ..is practically a meal in itself |
 |
| A swordfish special-'American" size fresh flaky fish in a light, herb flecked cream sauce...accompanied by braised lemon half, fresh parsley/chopped tomato... |
Pictured below:
Sole with lemon-'simple' menu option that deceptively over delivers way more than the listing.
A barely there buttery crust encapsulating two perfectly cooked tender white filets of sole -in an equally light creme sauce that beckons to be savored with a hunk of the accompanying fresh bread (itself delivered in a wire basket with butter, naturally).
 |
 |
| PLUS: steamed broccoli florets and a scoop of the stewed vegetable Provencal staple-ratatouille.- gratis -with both main courses. Additional options include pomme frites (of course!!!) , French string beans, creamed or sautéed spinach... |
 |
| Beverage options- mineral water (avec gaz)... a full bar including by the glass red/white/sparkling wine options -think a wonderful balanced lightly acidic Sancerre, bottled beers, crafted cocktail specialties and after meal Digestifs. |
 |
| To finish-a made the right way - warm Tarte Fine Aux Pommes- is French through and through-with a flaky buttery pastry crust-thin sliced apples under a creamy cool vanilla ice cream scoop. |
 |
| Dessert menu cover--illustration of the beloved classic TinTin |
DETAILS
Demarchelier-50 East 86th Street, NYC (between Madison/Park Avenues
Website:
www.demarchelierrestaurant.com
Open:
Monday-Sunday 11:30 AM-10:00 PM
Menus Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Dessert, Prix Fix
Nearby:
Must see NYC museums, Central Park, mass transit 4,5,6 subways, cross town (86th street) and many MTA bus lines-up/down Fifth, Madison and Lexington Avenues
Prices:
Main courses: $22.50-$38.95
Cheese Fondue for two $40
Reservations- Onlne via Open Table/Walk Ins Welcome
AND
...available on GrubHub delivery
Back room area available for a private gathering of up to 22 people.
MERCI: Strollers outside only policy. So civilized.