This review is for the upstairs restaurant, Millesime, which is brand new and at the time I write this, I don't see a separate listing other than here:
For my first time at a restaurant in its first week of being open, I never would have expected such a fantastic experience!
First, we started in the lounge downstairs for some V&V cocktails. The atmosphere was sophisticated and private. I noticed the sound system and piano and thought I definitely want to return for evening drinks.
Upon ascending upstairs to the restaurant, we were promptly greeted by every (well dressed) staff member, and our request for a semi-private table was accommodated without question.
Since the restaurant is known for seafood, we started with the smoked salmon appetizer, a favorite dish of mine at French restaurants, so the bar was set very high. The salmon was very fresh, and there were so many details to the presentation, I could tell a lot of work and thought was put into it. Of course, it was delicious. I was cleaning the plate with pieces of the healthy grain bread they serve at the table. (Yes, they serve healthy bread!)
On a high from this dish, we spontaneously ordered the tuna tartare next. I was delighted to find that they artfully mix your tuna tartare table-side, a classic step that is rarely performed anymore. The tuna tartare was mind-blowing: I loved the poached egg and the palate-surprising moroccan spices influence-I have never had tartare like that in my life! This is a MUST!
As amazing as the fish was so far, I couldn't resist ordering another French Classic, the Roast Chicken For Two. I noticed the price, at $36, was a bargain (and less than most NYC brasseries where this dish is usually 40-something at minimum). The Roast Chicken was perfect. I appreciated that the chef mixes in tiny grain toast points that are marinated in the chicken, garlic and thyme sauce. It reminded me of ""stuffing"" and was a nice touch. Also, I usually indulge in pommes frittes (french fries) because roast chickens just make me want them. Well it was SO BRILLIANT of the chef to put the clumps of whole wheat marinated bread around the chicken because that craving for fries was satiated. Its a healthier choice. (Next time, though, Im indulging in one of their pomme de terre options).
As a side vegetable, we were interested in the Creamy Spinach Legumes, but told the server that we don't like cream (yes, we are a bit healthy.) I was very impressed when our friendly server offered the information that this dish is prepared "" a la minute"" and that they would be happy to tailor it to our needs--making it MOSTLY fresh spinach with just a dash of cream.
The service is professional and well-choreographed, My water glass was constantly refilled without my asking, and polite offers of another Pinot Noir by the carafe were perfectly timed. Another detail I appreciated: We requested that the lighting be adjusted a bit darker where we were sitting because a bright light happened to be pointing at our table. They promptly adjusted the light, no questions asked. I also adored the servers' uniforms and kitschy ""Eiffel Tower"" salt and pepper shakers. Even the restrooms are immaculate with Molten Brown products.
There are so many dishes on this menu I cant wait to try next time, clearly the fish is a winner and the tuna tartare is a MUST- HAVE!
I only have two questions: When can I come back, and where can I buy those cute salt and pepper shakers?
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