The remake of The Exorcist isn’t nearly as chilling as what Jean de Noyer must have gone through ridding the demons from this place. But from the ash of Mortimer’s musty chicken hash, Orsay has risen, a brasserie swirling with seductive arches and good cheer, giving the Upper East Side the kind of French tickle it sorely needs. — Rob Patronite and Robin Raisfeld
Brunch
Sun., 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Recommended Dishes
Escargot au pernod, $12; salmon tartare, $19
7.7
"Recommended" Average Reader Rating on a Scale of 10
This restaurant is an absolute delight! We feel happy just walking into this beautiful bistro. The service is warm and unpretentious, the wine list, excellent; the menu, perfectly French, and the price moderate ! Particularly the 3 course prix fixe for $35.00! We have tried most menu items and recommend the burgundy escargot, the artichokes gratine, the sumptious braised beef shortribs, the goat cheese salad, and the bouillabaisse! We've held two special occasions at Orsay, and once hired an Edith Piaf impersonator, who got the crowd clapping by singing the French classics. I've never had one experience at Orsay that was anything less than delightful!!
Good, fresh, honest food, nicely cooked and served
What more does one want in a restaurant? The two of us shared an Orsay house salad, and each of us had a generous serving of steamed sea bass in vierge sauce. To accompany the bass I had delicious fingerling potatoes and a wonderful medley of vegetables. This was a lovely dish, beautifully cooked. Our dinner was topped off with tarte tatin and creme fraiche, a dessert to die for. Our waiter was courteous and efficient. Orsay has the authenticity of a French brasserie. I highly recommend it.