At Jean-Claude Baker’s lively homage to his adopted mother, Josephine Baker, the welcome’s so warm, it feels like a homecoming, and the piano is live every night. Bistro standbys—boeuf bourguignonne, deftly cooked salmon—are good enough. Southern fried chicken is fabulous, and le délice Josephine delivers paradise in chocolate. — Rob Patronite and Robin Raisfeld
Brunch
Sun., noon–4 p.m.
Recommended Dishes
Lobster cassoulet, $32
8.6
"Highly Recommended" Average Reader Rating on a Scale of 10
We had high aspirations after reading the other reviews, and decided to celebrate a special evening here. Being from the city, and living in the neighborhood, we ordinarily would not dine in the Times Square area. Once seated, we sat with an empty table for 20 minutes, until finally our server took our drink order. After another 10-15 min. we received our wine, water, and bread, only after asking for the last two items 3 separate times. Within moments our entrees were on our table before we even had a chance to toast the occasion. The food was decent, duck confit was tasty, however, for $28 a bit small. The Bolognese (a house “specialty”) was lackluster at best. When trying to leave ASAP, we specifically asked for change and waited 15 minutes until we reminded him we were waiting for change. He got $1!!! We eat out frequently and regularly tip 20%; for impeccable service (i.e. Antiqua Venezia, Spice Market, Degustation, Momufuku) as much as 25%. Mind you, I personally have worked in the food service industry for over 8 years, and would never have treated any table in the manner we were treated. Simply unprofessional, and disappointing!!!
First, the decor got my attention and then the gentleman playing the piano added a stageplay air to the room. I sat in the back against a draped wall and the food was out of this world. I am an advid soul food eater and this was a pleasant surprise!
Gotta go again this fall.