Originally established in 1937 and steeped in history, this charming bistro is intimate in scale and rocks a decidedly throwback look. Dark wood, a liberal use of red, and small closely set tables draped with linens produce a cozy yet sexy ambience that has diners swooning.
The team of Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr, the founding chefs of Balthazar and Minetta Tavern, have ushered in a new era at Le Veau d'Or which offers a prix-fixe menu reverential to classic French cuisine. Pâté en croûte is among the greatest hits, as is the golden-roasted poulet à l'estragon with an unapologetically buttery sauce flecked with tarragon. A small salad arrives after the entree to cleanse the palate, paving the way for sweets, such as a warm gratin au chocolat.