John Grisham’s The Associate isn’t the first pop-culture nod that springs to mind when describing Soho hotspot Balthazar, but the legal thriller pits its main character, ambitious first-year attorney Kyle as landing a coveted seat at the bar during Sunday brunch, where he dines on eggs Benedict and tomato juice while being thoroughly entertained by the rowdy crowd. Opened by restauranteur Keith McNally in 1997, the popular restaurant is modeled after an Parisian bistro, with high-backed red leather banquettes, peeling brass oversized mirrors, high tin ceilings and antique lighting combining to create an traditional brasserie vibe. Known for its celebrity clientele, the venue is raved about in all the guide books – even nabbing a spot on the seating outside is sure to have you witness at least one or two star-spotting encounters. Always bustling and packed to the rafters, Balthazar is reminiscent of the New York from a power broker ‘90s era gone by – think Samantha Jones trying to land a pitch with the head of the latest Thompson Hotels project over frites and a bottle of sauvignon blanc on a Monday afternoon. The restaurant serves traditional bistro fare throughout the day and a French menu by night, and boasts a booming champagne menu for those preferring a meal of the liquid variety. If you’re unable to land a spot on the iron-clad reservation list, check out the adjacent Balthazar Bakery, which offers a range of freshly-baked breads and pastries for those patrons looking to enjoy a slice of the stalwart at home, work, or while people watching on Spring Street.
