Meet Me At New York City's Paname

Paname, a Midtown East restaurant in New York City is a Francophile's dream. The name itself is street slang meaning "Paris," the city that embodies food, art deco décor, and a warm atmosphere for all those who enter it. Bernard Ros, a longtime New York restaurateur, opened Paname in 2013 as an homage to his home country.

The menu, in its design and construction of actual dishes, is reminiscent of a splendid Parisian bistro you would find on any street corner in Paris, The City of Lights. Traditional French items are sprinkled throughout the list of options such as steak frites, as well as an omelet with herbs and French fries, and rounding out the menu is the escargots de Bourgogne with red potatoes.

I had the pleasure of sampling a classic Caesar salad along with Atlantic salmon that was coated with lemon rind and served with a bell pepper vinaigrette. For dessert, I was overwhelmed by the decadent chocolate options including the mouthwatering mouse and the flawless flourless chocolate cake. The creative dessert presentation is representative of the restaurant's artistic vibe. Not only will every forkful be delicious, it'll be visually stunning as well.

One of the best things about Paname is its cost-appropriate specialty menus. The restaurant offers a stellar $14.95 weekend brunch on both Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The meal includes a mimosa or Bloody Mary and you have the choice of several brunch items like French toast, eggs benedict (classic or with smoked salmon), or eggs any style served with salad and potatoes. A pre-fixe lunch menu is also available for $25 and a pre-fixe dinner for only $38.

While it may be serving bistro cuisine with haute accents, the restaurant's décor signifies a more elevated concept in a comfortable eatery. With white tablecloths and walls, the space is dressed with Art Deco paintings and fresh flowers on each table that produce beautiful light and authentic color.

For those looking for ambiance that represents a quiet night with loved ones or friends, stop by Paname, take in the sights, and linger at a luscious dessert. You will not be disappointed.