La Boite En Bois

03/18/10

Pleasant Enough, For the Right Crowd

by wclark1998 at Citysearch

My fiance and I spent a recent evening here, and while I can understand the appeal to some, it was not a restaurant we will go back to. Upon walking in, it was impossible not to notice we were the youngest by half in the restaurant. I immediately realized this was going to be a menu strong on classics, but short on creativity. The lighting was harsh, the restaurant so quiet everyone could hear the others conversation, and as I expected, the menu would have thrilled my grandfather. I was happy with my dish, though my fiance was less so with her lamb, but it was just an uncomfortable evening without enough payoff in the food to be worth it.

• Pros: Quaint
• Cons: Cramped, Brightly Lit, Older Crowd

11/09/09

Pleasantly Suprised

by D Tobias at Citysearch

I have been living in the area for a long time and a neighbor recommended this restaurant. I am not normally a huge fan of French food but this menu has something for everyone from traditional to unique dishes. I would highly recommend the veal scallopini, roast salmon, and pumpkin soup as an appetizer (when in season). For dessert the chocolate mousse was outstanding (I have not tried any other desserts). Decent wine list and solid service. It's small, but cozy and definitely worth the trip.

• Pros: Great Food
• Cons: Quaint but small

11/11/08

great

by agent99712 at Citysearch

arrived at noon to a quiet and quaint space. we were greeted by the owner, who quickly put on his chefs jacket and chatted with us. we ordered the veal, the salmon with cous cous, the whole wheat pasta and the delicate seafood crepes. i cannot do justice to the quality of food, it was impeccable. large chunks of lobster in my crepes! perfect size portions. the warm, crispy rolls were as fresh as could be, the onion soup was not too salty and just the right amount of gruyere. right down to the butter on the table, perfect. of course he makes all the desserts and we chose the tart. lunch special is $25 and dinner pre-fixe is $40. a bit more than typical pre-theater dining, but beyond worth it. it is small space so be sure to make reservations if dining during this time. gino thank you and continued success.

• Pros: quaint, super fresh ingredients, knowledgable staff...
• Cons: tart was not what i expected

03/01/08

nuanced flavors, gracious staff, cozy to cramped

by chipnyc at Citysearch

The oysters on the half shell were icy cold, full of their liquor, delicate Blue Points. Could not be better. Monkfish with saffron sauce was a subtle yet complex with the leeks and mushrooms, and the fish medallions had a perfect texture. The ricotta cheesecake with raspberry coulis had a lemony zing and was light and airy, a perfect finale to a completely pleasant meal.

The staff is lovely. The atmosphere is rustic as one should expect, but it is too cramped. A small price to pay. I'll be a regular -- and I had a feeling I was one of the few who are not, already.

01/11/08

Best little restaurant in NYC

by yingperez at Citysearch

My husband and I discovered this little gem one Friday evening for dinner and we've gone back again for Sunday brunch the same weekend! Unlike other experiences with many restaurants in NY, it's consistantly great. Fine service, quality of food and not heavy on the salt like many cuisines. Desserts are outstanding too. I hope they will be around for a very long time because it will be our regular place for dining.

• Pros: Everything a great NY restaurant should be.
• Cons: None.