Food: ☆☆☆ ½

Service: ☆☆☆½

Ambiance: ☆☆☆ ½

Cost: $$$

Must try: Toasted Almond Ice-cream Bar

 

JoJo is where it all began for Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Over 20 years ago, Jean-Georges opened his first French bistro on the Upper East Side, serving homey yet delicious fare in an elegant setting. JoJo was an instant hit earning 3 stars from the New York times in 2003.

JoJo has maintained its beauty and grace over the years despite the immense growth of the Jean-Georges Empire. JoJo offers classic French dishes mingled with Asian flavors. There are no surprises on the plate, just really consistent good food.

The service is very casual and friendly which puts the diner at ease. There is no Upper East Side stuffiness pervading the room. The space is charming but a little awkward with a lack of cohesiveness at some tables. Request a table in the back room if you can.

JoJo is a wonderful neighborhood pick, for a somewhat staid yet intimate experience, with a special someone.

Here is some of what we ate:

 

Warm Asparagus Mesclun Salad

Peekytoe Crabmeat Mango and cumin crackers

Ravioli three cheeses, tomato sauce, basil

 

 

Salmon slowly baked with truffled mashed potatoes

 

 

Warm Chocolate Cake vanilla ice cream

 

 

Toasted Almond Ice-cream Bar