An excellent place for a morning cup of coffee or a late night meal, French Roast has found a corner (literally) for itself on the Upper West Side. While sometimes overcrowded, especially outside in the summer and inside in the winter when it is usually too loud for conversation, it nevertheless offers a simple yet tasty menu. Calling it French Cuisine might be a little unfair as it is more a French-American joint (highly recommend the brie burger). Wine selection could use some improvement but I have heard of people bringing their own bottles for a corking fee. If you really want to experience the restaurant, however, don't go at peak hours. It is usually packed and not with quiet upper west siders. Go first thing in the morning or at 3am if that happens to be where you find yourself after a busy night. It usually only closes for an hour or two for cleaning but even then, the friendly wait staff has allowed me a warm seat when in need of a place to read and start/end the day. The Warm Chocolate Cake is a way to end any meal.
more