Vive La France.

Vive Libertine.

If you build it they will come…there is a French invasion and New Yorkers cannot seem to get enough of French wines and fare.

The latest opening is the charming Libertine, featuring French countryside dishes…there is not a single Pomme Frite in sight.

The intimate restaurant has been drawing big crowds since it’s recent end of May debut in the West Village.

The staff is welcoming.

A reservation is a difficult get…consider walking in between 5-7pm.

We took over a small round table by the window and were served by the adorably accommodating Alex.

I changed it up and order a delightful Sauvignon Blanc ($23) and my dining partner chose a chilled Dirty Gin Martini ($21).

We started with an outrageous Oeufs Mayo that was perfectly prepared with an amazing homemade mayo sauce, highlighted by perky, succulent trout eggs ($19).

The Bread and Butter pricing was ridiculous for 5 small slices of French bread, although the Normandy butter was fabulous. For $8 you should receive a refill, but that’s 2023 pricing.

The Broiled Scallop with Seaweed Butter and Leeks was divine and creatively presented in a scallop shell ($18).

The large portion of  Poulet Vin Jaune was tender and rested in a tantalizing wine sauce accompanied by fantastic grilled mushrooms. Again, overpriced at $64.

I think I missed the mark by not ordering the Monkfish…maybe next time. The price point was much more reasonable for a casual weekday night out.

Libertine is the brain child of Anfora’s former general manager and beverage director Cody Pruitt, who along with Executive Chef, Max Mackinnon (formerly of Relae in Copenhagen, Rose’s Luxury in Washington D.C. and a James Beard nominee for his work at Pistou in Burlington, VT) are the partners and founders of the new spot.

Libertine is located at the corner of Greenwich and Christopher Street. The 46-seat restaurant features bistro tables sourced from Pays de la Loire, France, burgundy leather banquettes, cream Venetian plaster walls with chalkboard menus prominently displayed.

If I lived in the neighborhood I would definitely revisit and stick with the impressive wine selection and the delightful and delicious appetizers.

The all-natural wine list at Libertine is robust with 12 selections by the glass and more than 200 bottles, including traditional Burgundy and Bordeaux, as well as wines from France’s lesser-known regions.

As Pruitt stated, the intent of Libertine is “elevated French grandma food.”

His goal is achieved.

Libertine 684 Greenwich Street West Village New York City. Open Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-12am. Reservations on Resy.