Exploring How Balthazar Became One of NYC’s Essential Restaurants

The Page Six rumors are true — Eater New York’s viewing the world through a golden-toned and brass lens this week as we plant ourselves at iconic Soho brassiere Balthazar all day on Friday in celebration of the restaurant’s 20th anniversary. The legendary French restaurant from Keith McNally opened on April 21, 1997, and was the hottest spot in town for years. Over time, its warm interior and classic brasserie fare reverberated to restaurants across the city, and 20 years later, Balthazar is still one of New York’s essential restaurants.

To commemorate the occasion, the editors, reporters, and other Eater staff will be spending the whole day at a table in the restaurant liveblogging the event. We’ll be visited by a slew of staff from the restaurant — including several people who have worked there for all 20 years! — and will be talking what’s old, what’s new, and what’s happening right now in one of the most influential restaurants in New York City. Watch out for live videos and more in the day of the life of Balthazar.