Date - W. Vill/SoHo: Mod. priced French w/atmosphere

[fishermb]

Hey all, for a third date, I'm planning to pair a movie from the French New Wave series at Film Forum with, of course, French food.

Looking for rec's in the West Village/SoHo vicinity, somewhere relaxed where we can take our time, ideally not too loud, and would like to get out the door for under $100 max (glass of wine each, appetizer, 2 mains), though closer to $75 would be better, trying to keep it somewhat casual as it's still only a third date and it will be a weeknight.

No clue what the weather will be like, but in the event it's nice, the option for outdoor seating would be welcome.

[LRS]

Where did you go after all? BTW, it was not (it is not) a French new wave series, but a French crime wave (that is, French film noir) series. (I've been going everyday, that day I watched Borsalino).

[fishermb]

Plans changed for a different night...wound up going to Bar Pitti for dinner, and yes I realized it was crime and not new, we saw Bresson's A Man Escaped. I do have Jean Claude in my back pocket though and want to get over there soon.

[westvillageandbeyond]

I would have said Mas, on Downing, only based on ambiance. Haven't gotten a chance to eat there yet. Anyone know if it's any good? And what is that bar across the street from there?

[MMRuth]

I think Mas is very pricey though, if I recall correctly. We were rather astounded by our bill - it's been quite a while since we went so, while I recall enjoying the food on both occasions (and no, we weren't astounded by the bill the second time), I can't comment on how it is now.

[erin07nyc]

There's the Le Gamin location on Houston, just east of 6th ave. If it's still there, I'd recommend it for a very reasonable French meal. Good crepes and coffee, too.

Cafe Noir is French-influenced. They are further down in soho, and serve a lot of shareable plates, as I recall. Good drinks and louder atmosphere.

[westvillager02]

Perhaps La Sirène? It's within walking distance of the theater.

[kelea]

I went to Le Jardin Bistro (on Cleveland, just across the street from La Esquina) for brunch and they have a really cute garden terrace out back. Prices were reasonable and the food was pretty good. But this was over a year ago...and I've never had dinner there.

[Desidero]

You should consider Jean Claude on Sullivan (Houston/Prince). If you go, try the skate. It's just a few blocks from the Film Forum. Also, I think the price point at JC is lower than at Le Gigot; I know you will have a lot of trouble staying within your budget at Raoul's. I have eaten at Jarnac on a few occassions and although it is undeniably charming, I have always been underwhelmed by the food.

[fishermb]

Even Jarnac sounds like it might be a little tough to stay under $100 (not that I mind spending it, but as I mentioned, only a third date, and a week night). I went to Raoul's a solid year and a half ago but I remember it being rather expensive, and from what I've read on the boards lately, it's gone down hill a bit.

Jean Claude looks good to me, any other comments on it?

[Nehna]

Used to be one of my favorite restaurants in the area. BUT I haven't been for at least 4 years, so no idea if it's still as tasty as it used to be. Back then, they hanger steak was wonderful with a very rich pan sauce. And the fois gras was a steal.

[chow_gal]

Raoul's, SOHO.

[rrems]

Jarnac has very good food and a charming, cozy atmosphere with well-spaces tables and excellent service..

[JungMann]

I was about to say Jarnac myself.

[kobetobiko]

Le Gigot in W Village came to mind. Very cozy and food is quite food. It may be pushing your $100 limit, but if you don't have dessert (which you didn't mention), then I think you will be ok.

[financialdistrictresident]

Second Le Gigot. Lovely. We had a corner table and dined early so noise was not an issue for us. Only caveat is it's a small place and can get lively and noisy.

[erin07nyc]

Le Gigot is really cozy and probably your closest nice French option to the FF. But I would maybe save that one for a $150 night (though $100-$120 is doable).