Stepping inside Maison Premiere in New York feels like walking into a New Orleans living room, complete with dining tables, a marble U-shaped bar, a Napoleon-topped absinthe fountain, and a lush garden. I love Maison Premiere for its sophisticated ambience, decorative drinks, and top-notch seafood. Known for its absinthe and oysters, Maison Premiere attracts a cultivated Brooklyn crowd who seem to match the restaurant decor perfectly. 

There is an oyster happy hour from 16:00 – 19:00 every weeknight with $1 oysters. (Run, don’t walk — they don’t take reservations for happy hour.)

Not only does Maison Premiere have excellent food, but they also have amazing cocktails. My favorite drink is the Maison Pina Colada (pictured above), a delicious and Instagram-worthy pina colada served in a coconut and topped with fresh mint, cinnamon sticks, and gold straws. It is also a great ode to the bygone days of summer. In terms of food, obviously oysters are a must, as well as the arctic char. However, you really can’t go wrong here, whether you are stopping by for a drink, a meal, a date, or a combination of the three.