Balthazar Restaurant

"Balthazar serves traditional bistro fare from breakfast through late-night supper. Opened by Keith McNally in the spring of 1997, Balthazar offers a French menu prepared by chefs de cuisine Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson. Diners can also choose from an extensive wine list, a raw seafood bar, and breads and pastries from Balthazar bakery.Balthazar is renowned for its exceptional design. The building was converted from a leather wholesaler's warehouse to an airy space that can accommodate over 200 people in the dining room and at the zinc bar." - Balthazar Restaurant

On my way to Balthazar, I could not stop thinking about compliments about the restaurant. Everyone around me who went to Balthazar loved the restaurant and food. It was around 10 A.M. and I could see the line of people waiting to enter the Balthazar. Although it was freezing outside, no one seemed to be disturbed. I asked the lady in front of me "Why is there so many people coming to this restaurant?" She turned back and asked me if it was my first time here. I said "yes" and she said that she has been coming to this restaurant for 8 years. "Everything about this restaurant makes me to come back over and over." The lady suggested me few menu to try out.

As I entered, I was dazzled by the interior, atmosphere, and vitality of the restaurant. I was guided to sit in the corner section where I could see the restaurant in wide view. The tables were so small and crowded and it was a bit uncomfortable at first, but after 5 minutes when the guy next to me said hi and started chatting with me. It was quite odd situation, but at the moment, it didn't feel that way. Perhaps small tables were meant to provide customers to get to know each other.

I ordered Egg Benedict and cup of coffee. It was fantastic, perhaps the best brunch I ever had. Even after the meal was done, I wished I could stick around for another meal. It was beyond my expectations. If you are looking for great restaurant to visit, Balthazar is the one.