Many Miles Later

You can spot the red awning from down the block. A little weathered, perfectly welcoming, and promising exactly what the name says: everything’s fine. I first came across this restaurant while planning a bucket list girls’ trip to the city for a friend. I was simply looking for a pre-theater dinner spot near our hotel. What I found was a must-visit restaurant for every trip I take to New York going forward.

Side Note: I have a slightly deranged personal theory, and yes, I stand by it with my entire being.
If a restaurant makes you walk downstairs to get to it, it’s going to be amazing.
There’s just something about descending into a tucked-away little space that whispers, “This is where the good stuff happens.” La Tout Va Bien fits this energy exactly. It’s not technically underground, but it carries that same hidden-gem feeling that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.

The atmosphere inside is cozy and comforting. The space is small but not cramped, perfectly reminiscent of a neighborhood bistro in Paris. On a busy night, it’s full of energy, clinking glasses, and easy conversation. Is it visually stunning like some of the flashier French restaurants popping up around the city? Not really. But it’s friendly, unpretentious, and most importantly, delicious.

My usual order is the steak frites with peppercorn sauce. The steak is always perfectly cooked, the fries are crispy and well-seasoned, and I will never turn down a good au poivre sauce. They also offer daily specials. Last time, they had a chilled cucumber soup appetizer that sounded great, but I went with a Caesar salad instead. No regrets. Everything was exceptional.

And of course, no French meal is complete without dessert. La Tout Va Bien serves a Soufflé du Jour, which feels almost like a lost art. Most places avoid it because it takes extra time to prepare, usually around 20 minutes, and they want to turn tables quickly. Here, they take their time and let you enjoy it. Last Monday, the soufflé of the day was blueberry, which isn’t my favorite, so I went for the crème brûlée. It was smooth, rich, and deeply satisfying. That said, I’ve had their Grand Marnier soufflé in the past, and it remains one of the best desserts I’ve ever had.

La Tout Va Bien is the kind of restaurant that doesn’t need trends or theatrics to earn your loyalty. It’s warm, comforting, and consistent; the kind of place that feels like a little secret tucked into the chaos of Midtown. Whether you’re grabbing a pre-theater meal, lingering over wine and soufflé, or just want to escape the noise with something reliably delicious, this spot delivers every single time. It’s not flashy, but it’s real. And that makes it unforgettable.

Quick Info:

(Updated July 2025)

📍 Location:
343 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019 (Hell’s Kitchen, near 8th Ave)

💵 Price Range:
$$ — Entrees generally between $20–$35

Pre Theater Menu — $45 per person

🎭 Perfect For:
Pre-theater dinner, casual date night, classic French comfort food

📞 Reservations:
Recommended, especially on weekends or before shows
(Call or use OpenTable)

🚇 Nearest Subway:
50th St (C/E) or 49th St (N/R/W)