Raoul’s Menu – A Complete Guide to the Iconic SoHo Bistro
Introduction
Raoul’s is a legendary French bistro located in SoHo, New York. Since 1975, it has been a place where classic Parisian dining blends with New York’s artistic and cultural energy. Diners come for the food but stay for the ambiance, which feels romantic, nostalgic, and uniquely New York.
The Raoul’s menu is known for its timeless dishes, from the famous steak au poivre to brunch favorites like smoked salmon and pork belly egg sandwiches. Unlike modern restaurant chains, Raoul’s thrives as a single-location institution, adding exclusivity to its charm.
Ownership and Legacy of Raoul’s
Raoul’s was founded by two brothers, Serge and Guy Raoul, in 1975. Serge managed the front of house, while Guy crafted dishes in the kitchen. Together, they built the reputation of the restaurant as a downtown destination.
In 2014, ownership passed to Karim Raoul, Serge’s son, who continues to run the restaurant today. He preserves the traditions that made Raoul’s famous while introducing small touches to keep it fresh for modern diners.
Ownership Table
Year | Owner(s) |
1975–2014 | Serge Raoul (front of house) & Guy Raoul (chef) |
2014–Present | Karim Raoul (Serge’s son) |
Raoul’s Menu – Types of Dishes
Raoul’s menu is crafted with French elegance and bistro charm. From small starters to hearty main courses, the dishes focus on fresh, bold flavors. Each plate tells a story, and many have become signatures over the decades.
Starters and Appetizers
The starters range from light salads to rich foie gras. Seasonal items such as the chilled corn soup and endive salad remain popular for their freshness and balance.
Main Courses
Raoul’s main dishes define its legacy. The steak au poivre is a must-try, and the burger au poivre, though limited, has cult status. Dover sole, lobster tortellini, and lamb pasta highlight the French influence with modern touches.
Brunch Specials
Brunch at Raoul’s is a weekend tradition. Dishes like the pork belly egg sandwich and smoked salmon plate make brunch as famous as dinner service.
Desserts
Classics like profiteroles and crème brûlée end meals on a sweet and satisfying note.
Signature Dishes with Prices
Raoul’s is not inexpensive, but diners often agree the quality justifies the cost. Here are the dishes with confirmed prices.
Steak au Poivre
The steak au poivre is Raoul’s signature. Served with peppercorn sauce and crispy fries, it costs $58.
Dish | Price | Description |
Steak au Poivre | $58 | Pepper-crusted steak with creamy au poivre sauce and hand-cut fries |
Organic Smoked Salmon (Brunch)
A refined brunch choice, this dish comes with cucumber salad, rye crouton, and a sunny-side egg for $35.
Dish | Price | Description |
Organic Smoked Salmon | $35 | Smoked salmon with cucumber salad, rye crouton, and egg |
Pork Belly Egg Sandwich (Brunch)
This savory sandwich mixes pork belly, organic eggs, Gruyère cheese, and pickles, priced at $35.
Dish | Price | Description |
Pork Belly Egg Sandwich | $35 | Pork belly with egg, Gruyère, and pickles |
Chilled Corn Soup
A light seasonal appetizer, the chilled corn soup with farm greens and herbs costs $24.
Dish | Price | Description |
Chilled Corn Soup | $24 | Creamy corn soup garnished with greens and herbs |
Endive Salad
The endive salad with figs, blue cheese, and quince vinaigrette is priced at $26.
Dish | Price | Description |
Endive Salad | $26 | Endive with figs, blue cheese, and quince vinaigrette |
Raoul’s Menu Opening and Closing Hours
Raoul’s keeps consistent dining hours, balancing dinner service with a popular weekend brunch.
Hours of Operation
Day(s) | Hours | Notes |
Monday–Friday | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Dinner only |
Saturday–Sunday | 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM | Brunch service |
Saturday–Sunday | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Dinner resumes after brunch |
Raoul’s Customer Reviews
Customers consistently praise Raoul’s for its food quality, unique SoHo atmosphere, and lively vibe. Here’s a summary of real experiences:
- On TripAdvisor, diners call the steak “the best in the city” and commend the service and ambiance.
- On Yelp, reviewers describe the restaurant as cozy, dark, and authentically SoHo.
- On Reddit, locals say Raoul’s feels like a true downtown institution, with long, fun meals and one of the best burgers in New York.
- Food blogs highlight the steak au poivre as outstanding, though some note variations in steak doneness.
Source | Customer Feedback Highlights |
TripAdvisor | Best steak in NYC, cozy vibe, excellent service |
Yelp | Vintage décor, intimate setting, classic SoHo feel |
Downtown authenticity, lively dinners, best burger | |
Food Blogs | Steak au poivre praised, occasional cooking inconsistencies |
✅ FAQs
Q1. What is Raoul’s famous for?
Raoul’s is best known for its steak au poivre and the limited bar-only burger au poivre.
Q2. How much does Raoul’s steak au poivre cost?
The signature steak au poivre at Raoul’s costs $58.
Q3. Does Raoul’s serve brunch?
Yes, Raoul’s serves brunch on weekends from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
Q4. Who owns Raoul’s in SoHo?
Raoul’s is currently owned by Karim Raoul, son of co-founder Serge Raoul.
Q5. Where is Raoul’s located?
Raoul’s is located at 180 Prince Street, SoHo, New York City.
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Conclusion
Raoul’s has stood the test of time because it offers more than food—it delivers an experience. From its famous steak au poivre to elegant brunch offerings, every dish reflects French culinary tradition with a New York soul.
Its single location in SoHo adds to the allure, making it a destination restaurant. Customers come for the legendary menu and stay for the vibrant, intimate atmosphere that feels like stepping into a slice of Paris in Manhattan.
With Karim Raoul now leading the way, Raoul’s continues to thrive as a culinary landmark, where the past and present of dining meet in perfect harmony.
Sarah Wilson, an accomplished writer and seasoned blogger, weaves compelling narratives that transport readers to new and uncharted worlds. With a talent for vivid storytelling and thoughtful insight, her work leaves a lasting mark, enchanting both the imagination and intellect.