Jean Claude II, Upper East Side, Manhattan

I had to order a glass of Lillet ($11), a favorite summer drink — as I felt the French cafe atmosphere and hospitality as I sat down on the banquet at Jean Claude II. I somehow knew I was in for a treat.

My friend and I were heading to meet a contractor after lunch, and wanted to grab something simple. I highly recommend the veggies sandwich ($13, called Legumes!) on a crisp baguette.

It comes filled with zucchini, grilled portobello mushrooms and goat cheese, with the bread spread with olive paste and mustard. It’s also with just enough crispy fries to satisfy and a lightly dressed small salad. Perfection.

– bonnie
BonnieBOTB
Follow @BonnieBOTB

Jean Claude 2
Upper East Side
1343 2nd Avenue
New York, NY 10021
(212) 249-3400

About the Author: Bonnie Tandy Leblang

Blogger Bonnie Tandy Leblang has been covering food since before it was hip to do so! She’s penned magazine, newspaper and syndicated food columns in addition to cookbooks. Follow her on twitter @BonnieBOTB and on Instagram@BiteoftheBest and at @BonnieBOTB "I eat for a living!” is her mantra, sharing what she’s sampled so you’ll know where (or where not) to go, plus what food products and gadgets to try. For her full bio go to the about us page.

Jean Claude II, Upper East Side, Manhattan