Les Enfants Terribles, New York, New York

Les Enfants Terribles is one of my weekend hangouts. My friend Christy introduced me to Les Enfants when I first moved to NYC and I've been back just about every other week since... Les Enfants Terribles resembles a French bistro thanks to the sultry bartendress, the elbow-to-elbow seating arrangement, and the ubiquitous kirs found in the hands of its patrons.
Even the waiters and bartenders are French... although this can sometimes result in very French-style service (aka slow and nearly nonexistent). Nevertheless, Les Enfants is a great hangout spot, whether to catch up with some friends for dinner or to meet des expatriés over drinks at the bar. The menu is distinctly Franco-African, with inventive dishes like "Koroghofefemugu" (steak marinated with spices from Côte d'Ivoire) and "Bozo-Bozo" (potato crusted, pan-roasted seasonal fish).

The location is a little off the beaten path, on a rather dead section of Canal Street, which arguably contributes to the ambiance... one would say that you're in a quiet section of Montmartre or back in colonial Casablanca rather than downtown New York. In any case, Les Enfants Terribles comes highly recommended whether you're looking for a champagne cocktail or some African cuisine. There's also a DJ on weekend nights. Be sure to reserve a table if you're planning on dinner.

-Marcus

Les Enfants Terribles
37 Canal Street (and Ludlow)
New York, NY 10002