Despite the recent restaurant closures around Greenpoint Ave, French Epi at 123 Greenpoint Ave is still supplying excellently executed French cuisine to foodies on this long stretch of street between Manhattan and Franklin Ave. Both Chef Brian and owners Beata and Tomasz (who’ve been in the neighborhood for decades) are known for their perfectionist natures, marrying ridiculous specials alongside their fresh French menu. With Happy Hour specials starting at $4, and their 3-course $15 lunch special; fresh and flavorful seasonal offerings make this a hidden gem within the ‘hood.
On the lunch menu: French Epi’s Epic Veggie Sandwich. Image by Lindsey Johnston.
Heirloom Tomato and Buratta Salad. Image by Lindsey Johnston.
Chef Brian, who you can find on weekends brunching at Brooklyn Label or grabbing pizza at Paulie Gee’s, cut his teeth by studying cuisine in Barcelona. Inspired by old French cookbooks, he changed careers from Nurse to Chef once discovering his passion and true talent lay in flavor. “French cuisine is the foundation of all cuisine,” He says, “And French Epi allows me to showcase my talent in an intimate neighborhood like Greenpoint.” Right now, his inspiration for dishes is “anything green,” english peas and fava beans — of which you can find on the seasonal menu for summer.
For a summer go-to libation, try the Hugo, a Prosecco-based cocktail super for summer brunch in their backyard garden. If you’re more into wine with your meal, she recommends the Barrel Road, a cabernet aged in Bourbon barrels for red wine lovers; and the Domaine Celestin Blondeau, a Sauvignon Blanc for those into white. Exclusive for our readers: mention “Greenpointers” to your server, you’ll get a free glass of rosé with your meal.
Now, on to their specials. First, if you’re around Franklin Ave from 12pm-3pm and feeling a bit peckish, try their 3 course $15 (yes, $15) lunch special. Important to note, that burger on the menu uses the same meat as Peter Luger’s, without the wait and cash-only issue.
Second, during happy hour they’ve got $4 glasses of wine, Monday through Friday 4pm-7pm. Don’t be afraid to switch it up with a couple cocktails—they make all their syrups and mixers in house and use fresh ingredients in almost all of their drinks.
Don’t forget! Mention “Greenpointers” to your server and get a free glass of rosé with your meal.
French Epi is located on 123 Greenpoint Ave and is open from Tue-Fri (12pm-10pm) and Sat (11am-11pm) and Sun (11am-10pm). Visit their site for more info and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Sponsored by French Epi: French Epi is a contemporary French bistro located in the heart of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. They provide seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and produce, while utilizing classic French techniques. The main dining room gives a romantic vibes with bistro seating, while the outside seating is beautifully lit with geometric wood accents– fantastic for brunch or a night out. Come taste their deliciously crafted dishes and the exquisite French wines at this neighbor foodie gem.