My Upper West Side friends always raved about Cafe Luxembourg, but I only recently got there. I should have gone when it was in its heyday.

We sat outside on an unseasonably warm day and had difficulty getting our server’s attention, who was more interested in flirting with one of the other waitstaff.

When we finally did, we ordered cocktails to enjoy while we caught up, as my dining partner was in from Florida to meet her new grandchild.  I loved my Better than Bond, a stirred, not shaken, blend of Hendrick’s gin, Tito’s vodka and Lillet Blanc; my friend tried their Luxembourg Manhattan made with Bulleit bourbon, Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth, Angostura bitters (both $18).

After trying to get our waiter’s attention to our order, we enlisted help from the manager, who took our order. My friend ordered the mixed greens ($15) topped with salmon (+420). The portion size of the greens was ridiculously small, but the salmon was fine.

My cheeseburger ($29) was good, cooked medium rare as requested and served with crispy, thin French fries. I’d recommend it.

I can recommend Cafe Luxembourg if you’re not in a rush and you find yourself on the Upper West Side looking for a place to eat.

Cafe Luxembourg
200 W 70th St
New York, NY 10023
(212) 873-7411
cafeluxembourg.com/