"Balthazar is one of those restaurants that invokes serious pangs of jealousy every time you walk past its glowing brasserie lights and question why you’re not currently sipping on boulevardiers and eating oysters. Despite its obvious old-school charm, the French food here can be a little hit or miss so although you might be tempted by the whole grilled lobster or the hamburger, you’re much better off going for the lobster spaghetti that is a proper ‘summer on a plate’ tomato and seafood party. It’s also worth knowing about in case you find yourself in an Urgent Late-Night Weekend Steak Tartare Situation, or are looking for one last drink with a side of oysters." - Heidi Lauth Beasley