Balthazar Restaurant & Bakery

It may have opened in 1997, but this buzzy Soho hotspot remains the often imitated blueprint for transporting the essence of a Parisian bistro to the Big Apple. For wine lovers, it’s worth braving the crowds who clamor for one of Balthazar’s red leather banquettes to live out their Sex and the City fantasies or stuff their faces with the famous frites.

Beverage director Rebecca Banks has been in this high-profile role since 2005 and has built a list that balances approachable crowd-pleasers with big-named bottles for high-rollers and aficionados.

The extensive list is 100% French and spans multiple regions, vintages, and price points. Whether you choose to grab a quick glass of rosé or crémant at the bar or reserve a table to indulge in a full meal paired with Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Jura, the Rhône, and beyond, if you love fine French wine served in a lively and unfussy vibe, Balthazar is a must.