Liberty Bistro | Restaurant Review
I’m looking out at glittering water, a beautiful garden beside me. Flowers surround me, hanging from the over-hanging roof. Édith Piaf’s Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien plays softly in the background as I sip on a sparkling, refreshing glass of lemonade. No, I’m not in France – it took less than a 45-minute drive to get here. Because if I squint at the water, looking past the brilliant reflecting rays of the sun, I can make out the outline of a green-robed lady holding up a torch. I’m at the Liberty Bistro in the Financial District of New York City.
La Salade Lyonnaise
Liberty Bistro is a fairly new and beautiful brasserie stationed next to Battery Park. It’s positioned so that it looks across the Hudson River with a fantastic view of Jersey City. It is part of Le District, a french food hall with a Patisserie, Creperie, and more. Wanting to eat out during the summer, but still being in a place where many of us are still being affected by the pandemic, Liberty Bistro and its large outdoor seating area was perfect. When we were pleasantly surprised with a nice day, my family and I made the quick drive to check it out.
Despite them being busy, we were quickly seated in a nice spot due to the abundance of tables they had set up outside. The staff was warm and friendly, and quickly came to bring our drinks. I had the Liberty Lemonade, which I would totally recommend getting, especially with the warmer weather we’re seeing come along day by day. Dishes that stood out to me and me family were the Salade Lyonnaise, Salade Niçoise (the c is pronounced like an s), Steak-Frites, and the oysters. I preferred the two salads the most. They were both incredibly refreshing, and filling in a way that makes you feel satisfied but not stuffed. It wasn’t like I was just chewing on leaves. The Steak-Frites, while a popular dish even outside of French cuisine, stood out to us as well due to how incredibly well-made it was.
Steak-Frites
Everything that seems so simple is taken to another level at Liberty Bistro. They really pay attention to the finer details. Take a closer look, and you’ll see it too – the paper versus plastic straws they use, the sauces made fresh for every meal. The authentic French cuisine was spectacular and beautifully presented. It was a delight to dine there, and I believe the experience is worth your money.
However, there are a few cons I think some should keep in mind. If you are vegan, you will find it very difficult to dine there. I did not see many vegan options, although there are quite a lot for vegetarians. Another thing to keep in mind is that the Financial District is a busy area and, while I believe the tables are decently spaced out, people are constantly passing by. It may be prudent to keep this in mind, in regards to potentially contracting COVID-19.
Nonetheless, if you are looking for a new cute dining spot, Liberty Bistro is the way to go. After your eating, you can check out the rest of Le District and get a nutella crepe from the Creperie, or a cupcake from La Patisserie. Even when you’re done dining, you can lounge on the green nearby or walk near the water. For more information, check out the restaurant’s website at https://libertybistro.nyc/. While I may not be the world’s toughest critic, check out Le District! The views and food you just can’t refuse!
Pictures by Dasara Kurti.
