Restaurant

Benoit New York is a contemporary French bistro by Alain Ducasse. In August 2016, Alain Ducasse transformed the original Benoit into a more modern 21st century dining destination. While the updated look still retains traditional French bistro elements, such as the signature red velvet banquettes, the lighter color palette and brand new Wine Bar bring a breath of fresh air to the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Parisian bistro since 1912

In collaboration with New York based Dekar Design, Alain Ducasse reimagined Benoit as a classic French restaurant with a more inviting, residential feel and a modern new look. Whites, grays and blues create a warmer yet airier décor and atmosphere while the white washed wood paneled walls, vintage lights from a Paris flea market and stone mantel fireplace all contribute to Benoit's revitalized identity as an authentic Parisian bistro with a New York sensibility. The redesigned entrance now boasts an intimate lounge space, complete with a fireplace and antique club chairs from Alain Ducasse's personal collection. Signature brass elements and red accents from the original Benoit remain in the main dining room, which has nonetheless been refreshed with brighter walls, large mirrors and vintage swing arm sconces, creating a more open space. The once black-and-white bar has undergone a complete transformation, fusing the inside with the outside with vintage porch lights, light gray wood paneling, colorful cement tiled floors and plaster wallpaper, bringing life and texture to the space.

Benoit Bistro, the iconic French destination by Alain Ducasse, proudly highlights the culinary leadership of Chef Lucile Plaza, whose career reflects a seamless blend of classical French tradition and the vibrant energy of New York City. Raised in the suburbs of East Paris and influenced by her dual French-Spanish heritage, Chef Lucile began her culinary path early, training at École Hôtelière de Paris – CFA Médéric and honing her craft in some of Paris’ most esteemed Michelin-starred kitchens. She joined Benoit New York in 2014, where she developed her voice within a collaborative, female-led kitchen before leading the culinary program at Le Coq Rico, earning widespread national and international acclaim—particularly for what many critics hailed as the finest poultry dishes in the United States. Returning to the Alain Ducasse family at Benoit in 2020, Chef Lucile has been recognized by New York Magazine, Forbes, Wine Spectator, and The Daily Beast for her elegant, comforting approach to French cuisine, marrying classical technique with modern sensibility and ensuring Benoit’s continued standing as a cornerstone of French-American culinary excellence.