Historic Glamour, Modern Soul: Inside The Paris Cafe’s Dazzling Revival

Aug 6

Aug 6 Historic Glamour, Modern Soul: Inside The Paris Cafe’s Dazzling Revival

After a meticulous restoration, The Paris Café has officially reopened down the street from South Street Seaport, and it’s a must visit. First established in 1873 and once frequented by icons like Teddy Roosevelt and Thomas Edison, this legendary landmark has been lovingly reimagined by Legeard Studio and OPUS Hospitality as a brasserie-meets-jazz-lounge that pulses with both heritage and modern touches. The reopening marks a bold return for one of the city’s oldest restaurants—now a portal to Parisian charm, live music, and a beautifully executed French menu.

Tucked along the cobblestones of South Street, The Paris Café immediately transports you from NYC. The historic façade remains intact, but step inside and you’re swept into a cinematic swirl of Belle Époque elegance.

The interiors are a feast for the eyes: hand-plastered walls, custom mosaic floors, and a gleaming pewter-topped bar that anchors the room like a vintage postcard come to life. Velvet banquettes surround a jazz stage at the center, promising late-night allure as sultry as the lighting itself. It's easy to forget you're steps from the Seaport and not tucked into a golden-hour bistro on the Left Bank.

Our meal began with the bread service, and what a beginning it was, served warm with butter from Normandy that deserved a spotlight of its own. We also indulged in the Panier de Gougères: delicate, cheesy puffs that dissolved into pure decadence. For starters, we shared the Foie Gras Terrine with housemade brioche—slightly sweet, almost like cornbread—rich, silky, and indulgent. The Endive Salade was a study in balance: crisp, creamy, and punctuated with candied walnuts and Roquefort. But the true standout was the St. Jacques à la Paris Café—perfectly roasted diver scallops served in stunning shell presentations, topped with caper butter and crispy shallot breadcrumbs. Each bite was a buttery, texture-rich triumph.

To sip, we chose two standout cocktails that matched the evening’s mood. The Soleil Spritz, made with prosecco, watermelon, Cap Corse, and lavender cordial, was a vibrant and refreshing ode to summer. The St. Germain des Prés, a mix of gin, strawberry, elderflower liqueur, and cucumber tonic, felt like a floral breeze in a glass. For mains, the Loup de Mer en Papillote impressed with its delicate texture and the layered flavors of tomato, fennel, lemon, and a whisper of Pernod, the French anise liquor that added just enough intrigue.

But the dish we’ll be dreaming about for weeks? The Steak Frites au Poivre, cooked to a perfect medium-rare and bathed in a peppercorn sauce so divine we considered asking for it by the bottle.

We ended on a sweet note with the Clafoutis Nectarine, a warm, custardy delight made all the more elegant by the Cognac Crème Anglaise poured tableside. Though tempted by the towering La Révolution, a showstopping selection of boutique pastries meant for two to four, we decided to save that indulgence for a fall visit (bathing suit season, after all!).

As the sun dips and the chandeliers begin to glow, Paris Café After Dark comes alive. Starting this September, weekend nights will feature live jazz, turning this downtown gem into a sultry, sonic sanctuary. Whether you’re in search of an intimate dinner, a spontaneous nightcap, or a new go-to brunch spot (hello, Bastille Day brunch and DJ sets), The Paris Café is ready to charm.

We already can’t wait to return. For reservations, menus, and upcoming entertainment schedules, visit pariscafenyc.com.