Old friends.

Stopped by Balthazar on a recent Saturday night.

I had forgotten what a charming venue it is.

Before Keith McNally opened Balthazar, the building at 80 Spring housed a tannery. Upstairs was a leather wholesaler, downstairs a vast sweatshop.

Purportedly, there were about 200 women downstairs working the sewing machines.

Present day, the 189-seater entertains many more people daily, showcasing elaborate floral displays and deliciously classic French cuisine.

The Balthazar menu still features mainstays such as raw bar seafood towers, escargots, French onion soup, steak frites and profiteroles.

The restaurant remains relevant as ever. I love the tradition of treating solo diners as VIPs with a glass of champagne. The people-watching is unlike few places in New York.

We were seated at a strategically placed table. The host was attentive, pulling out the table for easy seating.

Our server was a woman of exquisite experience.

The cocktails and wine were perfection.

The Escargots were a must with an interesting addition of lemon essence ($26).

The peasant bread was hearty and freshly baked.

I never eat meat, but my daughter was part of the posse so we split Steak Au Pouvre which was absolutely delicious ($59). Approximately, 200 steak frites dishes are ordered daily.

The juicy, flavorful steak was served with crispy French fries and sauteed spinach.

My husband ordered Moules Frites which were very good resting in a rich white wine broth ($37).

Dessert was a decadent Toffee Pudding ($16).

Balthazar opened in the spring of 1997 and  is the quintessential Parisienne bistro.

The minute you walk in you are transported…In fact, 1500 people walk in daily.

All the woodworking is original and the atmosphere is inviting and sensual.

Balthazar provides a delectably unique, fun night out in New York City.

Balthazar 80 Spring Street SoHo New York City. Open Monday-Friday 8am-Midnight, Saturday and Sunday 9am-Midnight. Reservations on Resy.