Chateau Royale

205 Thompson St New York, NY 10012

New York has so much to offer, but nothing is more indicative of The Big Apple experience than a spontaneous dinner at a downtown cocktail bar. You’re in Greenwich Village. The original, movie-like bustle that you might shy away from post 40. Behind an ivy wall and some vintage lanterns, you are removed from the busy street and transported to an intimate, low-key, high-brow scene that made the entire trip worth it.

We sat in “The Bar Room” downstairs which is nothing unworthy of a dinner out. It’s a killer vibe right from the entrance. Properly soft lighting, a long bar and about 8 well-appointed tables set the tone. At the bar, classics are elevated and made with care. A refined Sidecar, the always hard to find “Tuxedo No. 2,” and even a martini and burger combo offer for the economically conscious! The menu is classic French fare, but with a playful New York edge. A “Chien Chaud” which delivers the savory, grown up hot dog experience we all crave. Escargot served with an ethereal brioche pastry that even makes the snails jealous, and a burger that is substantial, delicious, and still fancy enough for the white cloth napkin. They give you the option to have it with Bleu Cheese or without, I’d skip it.