Raoul’s Restaurant in Soho

I am not a huge meat eater but I cannot visit Raoul’s without someone, if not me, ordering the Steak au Poivre.  It is consistently delicious.  A really great cut of steak cooked just right is a rare treat.  I first visited Raoul’s for a company dinner a few years back and at the time I was just beginning to experience all the culinary choices Manhattan has to offer. One of my favorite parts of Raoul’s (besides the food) is it’s decor and setting.  You immediately know you are entering into a place that has a strong history and local following.  There is artwork strewn about the walls including prints, water colors and photography.  The narrow booths, white cloth linens and old-style “saloon” bar make for a unique and nostalgic experience.  Raoul’s is a small place that asks to take your coat the moment you cross the threshold.  The loo is up a narrow circular staircase and there is always a tarot card reader awaiting your participation.  Although traveling through the kitchen to get to the rear “Garden Room” is definitely cool, I prefer sitting in the main dining room where you can take in all the action.

A friend of mine was in town on business from San Francisco and I took him to Raoul’s because it is good and reliable.  As I suspected he ordered the Steak au Poivre and was very pleased.  It is always nice when you take one of your “foodie” friends to a favorite and they agree on your choice.  He is a bit of a wine afficionado and he chose some delicious wines that we paired back to our experience.   I must also call out the mixed greens with warm goat cheese and the tuna tartare.  They too are consistently enjoyable and exactly the way to begin the meal.  The service is pretty consistent and although they can be a very busy restaurant with a need to turn the table to waiting reservations, I have never felt rushed like many Manhattan restaurants. 180 Prince Street near Sullivan, 212.966.3518

Category: -