Chez Napoléon

- 365 West 50th Street Btw. 8th & 9th Aves, New York, NY 10019

Welcome to the heart of Midtown Manhattan, where a taste of classic France awaits at a true New York institution. Tucked away on West 50th Street, Chez Napoléon is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of culinary history. Since 1960, this family-owned establishment has charmed locals and visitors alike with its dedication to authentic French “bonne femme” cooking. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every moment and every bite of traditional, hearty French fare.

Unlike many modern eateries, Chez Napoléon prides itself on unpretentious, high-quality food rooted in cherished family recipes. The matriarch's magic, passed down through generations, lives on in every dish. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, a perfect blend of cozy, historic, and romantic. You’ll feel a sense of stepping into a different era, with a decor that has character and history, even a quirky, framed jigsaw puzzle of Napoleon’s Coronation. It’s this unique charm, combined with the serious commitment to incredible food, that makes Chez Napoléon a standout gem in the bustling landscape of New York City dining.

Located at 365 West 50th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, New York, NY 10019, Chez Napoléon is conveniently situated in Midtown Manhattan, making it easily accessible for anyone in the city. Its prime location near major transportation hubs and iconic landmarks makes it a perfect stop for a pre-theater dinner or a special night out. While the area can be busy, the restaurant offers a cozy escape from the city's fast pace.

For those traveling by car, paid street parking is available, though it can be competitive. The restaurant's accessibility is excellent for pedestrians, and it's a short walk from several subway stations. The establishment itself provides a warm, welcoming space for all.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, classic French dining experience within the restaurant's charming and historic setting.
• Table Service: The staff provides excellent and attentive table service, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable meal.
• Reservations: While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to secure your spot at this popular eatery.
• Accepts Various Payments: For your convenience, Chez Napoléon accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

• Authentic French Cuisine: Specializing in classic "bonne femme" cooking, the menu features traditional dishes rarely found elsewhere in NYC, such as Cervelle de Veau and Cassoulet, all prepared with time-honored family recipes.
• Historic Atmosphere: Opened in 1960, the restaurant has a cozy, historic, and romantic ambiance that transports diners to old-world France. It’s a place with character, from its decor to its unpretentious charm.
• Impressive Beverage Selection: The restaurant is known for its fantastic beverage offerings, including a great wine list, a wide selection of beer and cocktails, and an excellent tea and coffee selection.
• Great Desserts: No French meal is complete without dessert. Chez Napoléon is celebrated for its delectable sweets, including a sublime Soufflé with raspberry sauce and the classic Crêpes Suzettes.
• Welcoming to All: The restaurant has a friendly, inclusive atmosphere and identifies as a transgender-safe space and LGBTQ+ friendly.
• Family-Owned and Women-Owned: As a women-owned business, Chez Napoléon has been a cherished family institution for over six decades, maintaining its high standards of food and service.

• Address: 365 West 50th Street Btw. 8th & 9th Aves, New York, NY 10019, USA
• Phone: (212) 265-6980

The menu at Chez Napoléon is a celebration of French culinary traditions. While every dish is prepared with care, there are some standouts that make this restaurant truly special.

For starters, the Escargots de Bourgogne and the rich Soupe à L’Oignon are perfect ways to begin your meal. The Paté Maison is another excellent choice, showcasing the rustic and authentic nature of the cooking.

When it comes to the main courses, you'll be faced with an array of tempting options. Meat lovers will appreciate the classic Boeuf Bourguignon or the celebrated Cassoulet, a hearty and flavorful stew that one customer praised as being far superior to their own holiday version. The Steak Frites is a reliable favorite, and for those feeling adventurous, the Cervelle de Veau is an incredible, authentic offering that is hard to find elsewhere in the city.

If you prefer fowl, the Coq au Vin and Canard à L’Orange are timeless choices that are executed flawlessly here. For seafood enthusiasts, the Moules Marinières and the classic Truit Meuniére are both delightful and fresh.

And, of course, you absolutely cannot skip dessert. The Soufflé with raspberry sauce is a must-try; it's light, airy, and utterly divine. The Crème Caramel and Mousse au Chocolat are also perfect classic finishers to a wonderful meal.

What truly sets Chez Napoléon apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. The servers are known for being charming, friendly, and unhurried, creating a dining experience that is both superb and relaxing. While some may find the maître d' to have a bit of a cheeky attitude, it's all part of the fun, a sign that they take their food—not themselves—very seriously. This institution has weathered decades of change and remains a steadfast beacon of traditional French cooking in New York City.

In a city filled with new and trendy spots, Chez Napoléon stands out as a genuine article—a beloved, old-school gem that offers not just a meal, but an experience. It’s a wonderful place for a romantic dinner, a celebratory meal, or a solo dining adventure. You’ll leave feeling full, content, and delighted to have discovered this charming slice of France in the heart of NYC.

Chez Napoléon

365 West 50th Street Btw. 8th & 9th Aves, New York, NY 10019, USA