Location: Chelsea
Champignon and Cafe Champignon
200 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Catering: 212 366-4410
Cafe: 212 929-3002
I have to admit, I was a little confused the second or third time I went to Champignon. And with good reason. Part deli, part cafe, this French restaurant actually serves some of the same lunch staples in two next-door establishments — and table service comes at a premium. In Cafe Champignon, dainty tables and dim lighting class up a moist Sirloin Burger ($9.50), served on brioche with all the fixings. But hop next door, and get a hearty soup and panini combo for just $7. The paninis, while pre-made, include delicious ensembles like the New Yorker (roast beef, American, caramelized onion, and Thousand Island dressing) and Chicken Caprese (grilled chicken, tomato, fresh mozzarella, and pesto), and pair well with their soups. Stick with the homier options like Chicken Noodle and Cream of Mushroom, and steer clear of the Lobster Bisque, unless you’re in the mood for artificial lobster flavoring. Champignon also serves breakfast and dinner, with a classic French twist. For dinner, their Crispy Red Snapper comes drizzled with champagne clam sauce with a side of spicy rice and toasted almonds. The eponymous ravioli, stuffed with wild mushrooms and ricotta cheese, is hot, creamy, and flavorful. As for those in the Bronx or Brooklyn, don’t worry. A popular third division, Champignon Catering, services business functions and parties in all five boroughs.
Lauren Wang
