Maison Harlem

Two French New Yorkers opened this bistro on St. Nicholas Avenue in 2012, hanging menus in old record covers and stringing fairy lights across the room. The kitchen leans classic: boeuf bourguignon, a well-built quiche Lorraine, a risotto that holds its own next to lighter salads. A narrow bar draws Harlem regulars on weekend nights, while the larger dining room fills with brunch groups and after-work crowds during happy hour. Reservations go through OpenTable, though the bar seats walk-ins.