NYC｜French Classic: Lobster Soufflé & Fine Dining on a Budget 💰

Saw this dish nicknamed “Lobster Soufflé” online—actually it’s Quenelle de Brochet Sauce Nantua (pike dumplings in crayfish sauce). Benoit is part of chef Alain Ducasse’s group (the Paris location has a Michelin star). The NYC spot is easy to book and has a classy, minimalist vibe. 🍞 Bread – Crusty and rustic, served with warm, stamped butter. 🐌 Escargots – Buttery, garlicky, classic French. Perfect with bread. 🦆 Duck Foie Gras Terrine – Smooth and rich, served with toasted brioche. 🦞 Quenelle de Brochet – The star! Fluffy pike dumplings in an intensely savory crayfish sauce, served with baked rice. Deep, ocean-like umami. 😅 A small hiccup: My friend found an ant in her portion. The staff handled it gracefully—removed the charge, remade the dish, comped the main and dessert, and offered an extra brunch item. 🍦 Our Baba (Rum) – A traditional rum-soaked baba cake—sweet, moist, and aromatic. 🍮 Crème Brûlée – Silky with a perfectly torched top. They also gave us complimentary cream puffs. Despite the incident, Benoit’s response was professional, and the food left a lasting impression. And yes—this post could also be titled How I Ate a Full French Meal in Midtown for Only $20 😉. 📍 Benoit 60 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019 #NYC #FrenchFood #FineDining #AlainDucasse #NYCEats #BudgetFriendly #NYCRestaurants #FoodieStory #Quenelle #MidtownEats