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Brasserie Cognac Midtown East

Brasserie Cognac Midtown East, 517 Lexington Ave, New York

4.4
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCELLENT
4.4 out of 5 (139 Ratings)
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0.7 miles Carnegie Hall
About Brasserie Cognac Midtown East
The Spotlight on Brasserie Cognac Midtown East

Charming French Bistro Steps from Midtown's Concert Halls

Brasserie Cognac Midtown East is a cozy, Parisian-style bistro nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, just a short walk from some of the city's biggest concert venues. With its vintage decor, warm lighting, and authentic French cuisine, this charming spot delivers a taste of Paris in bustling NYC. Think steak frites, escargots, and fresh baguettes all served with a smile in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.

Why Concert-goers love it

This brasserie is beloved by concert-goers for its proximity to major Midtown venues—you can dine and still make your show with time to spare. The restaurant offers efficient service, perfect for squeezing in a quick meal before the curtain rises. The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and intimate, so whether you're gearing up for a high-energy gig or a quiet acoustic set, it sets the right tone.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a shared cheese board and wine before the show
  • Solo travelers who want a quiet corner with a glass of Bordeaux
  • Couples kicking off a romantic weekend in the city
  • Fans who want a vibrant, pre-show energy
  • Budget-conscious diners seeking quality French fare at fair prices

What People Say

Diners rave about the authenticity of the menu and the welcoming staff. Many highlight the croque monsieur, duck confit, and onion soup as must-tries. The sidewalk seating is a hit in warmer months, and guests often mention the classic French ambiance that makes every meal feel like a mini escape to Paris. Fast service and accommodating staff are also frequently praised, especially for pre-show planning.

Areas for Improvement

Some reviewers note that it can get a bit crowded during peak hours, especially before major events. A few also mention that the prices lean toward the higher end, though most agree the quality makes it worthwhile.

The Bottom Line

For concert-goers craving classic French cuisine in a charming, convenient Midtown location, Brasserie Cognac Midtown East hits all the right notes.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
French
Opening Hours
Breakfast
Mon-Fri 7:00 am-10:30 am
Brunch
Sat, Sun 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Lunch
Mon-Fri 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Dinner
Daily 4:00 pm-10:00 pm

Brasserie Cognac Midtown East Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Brasserie Cognac Midtown is #6108 of 14695 things to do in New York City

2 of 5 stars2 out of 5
By: Q9473IAjohnd, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Sun 30 Mar, 2025
l Server was good, but not the best. The atmosphere was worthily of a date night. My wife’s dinner was pretty okay but mine was actually pretty poor. I had the roast beef sandwich. I had maybe 4oz of...

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: nodrama1, Darien, Connecticut
Mon 17 Mar, 2025
l The restaurant has a nice buzz at lunch. Good for a business discussion where it's not too loud but any conversation is covered with ambient noise. The salmon burger was good and the service fast.

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: J2474FLbettyg
Wed 18 Dec, 2024
l The tuna tartare was extraordinary, the steak tartare very good. Alas, the French onion soup was disappointing as the broth lacked flavor. The bread for the fondue was slightly toasted, a plus...

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Brasserie Cognac Midtown East 517 Lexington Ave, New York