11.04.08
Review of The New French, Saturday brunch August 2008
522 Hudson St. & 10th St., 212-807-7357
Great for: pho, airy design enthusiasts, resting after West Village wandering
I did a long photo shoot one Saturday afternoon with my friend Tom (who is amazing, by the way, and looking for more subjects) and we went out for a well-earned brunch afterward. I didn’t have the energy to think of a place but he wanted to try this one and fortunately it was on my list.
We both got the signature pho with shredded brisket, noodles, broccoli, carrots, scallions, shallots and cilantro. You can also get it with chicken, though that would never be my choice. It’s rich and flavorful yet not too heavy. There are tons of veg so it’s actually pretty healthy as well. It could have been more spicy for my taste but they’re happy to bring you sriracha sauce. Overall, I was delighted after a hard day’s work. (Yes, modeling is real work.)
Rating: 7.5 / 10
Our cost: $40 (one diet Coke)
Noise level: quiet, but it was around 3 or 4 on a Saturday. Probably a convivial hum at peak times.
Chance of walking in: it’s a pretty restaurant near Magnolia. Don’t be silly, make a reservation.
