Because of the comments in the reviews, we started the line in front of the door at 5:20 pm on a Sat. By opening time, there were10 people behind us. By 6 pm, the restaurant was full, including seating at the bar. There are only 6 two-tops, 6 seats at the bar and ?5 booths that can seat 6. They do take names and numbers to contact later arrivals when a table opens. Tonight, it was after 7 pm before one did. We absolutely enjoyed our meal with an excellent 2006 Pomerol. There was a large lag before our main arrived, and I forgot to take a picture until we had already dug in. Service was friendly and efficient. The Beef Tartare was prepared classically and was delicious. The côte de boeuf was somewhat tough inn places, but the demi-glace was heavenly and made up for it. It was served on the rare side of med.-rare. I splurged on chocolate cake, and it was worth every calorie! (light and fluffy with excellent cocoa flavor). My husband loves Pedro Ximenez sherry, and deigned to eat it over vanilla ice cream. ;)
Overview
Located at 110 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850, Le Café Cent-Dix offers a charming and inviting atmosphere for those seeking a delightful dining experience. The café captures the essence of French bistro culture, blending authentic flavors with a relaxed ambiance perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings. With a cozy yet sophisticated vibe, it's a place where locals and visitors alike can savor delicious meals while enjoying the beauty of downtown Ithaca.
The menu at Le Café Cent-Dix is a true reflection of French culinary traditions, offering a range of dishes that showcase the best of both classic and contemporary French cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for a simple yet flavorful croissant or a more indulgent meal, their offerings never fail to impress. The brunch menu is particularly popular, with fresh, made-to-order crepes, quiches, and a variety of freshly baked pastries that are perfect for starting the day on a delicious note.
One standout item is their signature croque monsieur, a savory French sandwich made with perfectly toasted bread, creamy béchamel sauce, and rich ham. The croque madame, topped with a sunny-side-up egg, takes this classic to another level. For those looking for something lighter, the café offers a selection of fresh salads and delicate soups, which pair wonderfully with their house-made dressings and rustic breads.
Le Café Cent-Dix is also known for its exceptional coffee and artisanal beverages. The café uses locally sourced beans to brew some of the best cups of coffee in Ithaca, whether you prefer an espresso, a rich cappuccino, or a smooth latte. Pair your drink with one of their many pastries, and you'll find that this café truly knows how to deliver an authentic taste of France right in the heart of Ithaca.
The service at Le Café Cent-Dix is friendly and attentive, with the staff always eager to offer recommendations or make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable meal. The atmosphere is relaxed yet professional, making it an ideal spot for both a quick bite or a leisurely meal with friends and family. Whether you're visiting for a morning coffee or an evening dinner, the staff ensures a pleasant and memorable experience from start to finish.
The location itself adds to the café's charm. Situated in the heart of Ithaca, it's the perfect spot for a break after exploring the local shops or enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Its proximity to downtown makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a quiet moment or a meal after a busy day.
For dessert, the café offers an array of treats that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Their rich chocolate mousse is a favorite, as is their fruit tart, which features a buttery, flaky crust and a fresh selection of seasonal fruits. These desserts, alongside a cup of their house-made hot chocolate, are the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
When it comes to the overall dining experience, Le Café Cent-Dix does not disappoint. Whether you're a long-time Ithaca resident or just passing through, it's a place that brings the flavors of France to life with every dish. The combination of high-quality ingredients, exceptional service, and an inviting atmosphere makes this café a standout in the local food scene. Whether you're here for a quiet breakfast or a celebratory dinner, you're sure to leave with a smile and a satisfied appetite.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsPhotos
Location
Reviews
An absolutely incredible dining experience in every aspect. The food, atmosphere, and service all complimented each other beautifully and made for a stunning night. The meal is ordered all at once and coursed out, allowing to be continuously one upped by the last item and be continuously impressed by the dishes. The appetizer dishes blew me away and somehow the food maintained or surpassed the quality at every turn. Service was impeccable and very well informed on all the dishes, exactly what you would expect from a restaurant of this caliber. No weak points in this dinner at all. Highly highly recommend coming here if you are looking for an elegant and delicious meal that will blow you away, as long as you’re prepared to pay accordingly, but it will be worth it.
We had a fantastic, romantic, delicious dinner here. I was so impressed by how seasonal the menu was while also being bright and varied even at the tail end of December. The food was creative but comforting and the service was impeccable without being stuffy or overbearing.
We visited this French restaurant for an early Valentine's celebration and faced a long 50-minute wait. The warm lighting and decent wine selection set a welcoming atmosphere, earning the decor a 7/10. Service was impressive, with a knowledgeable server, deserving an 8/10. Our meal journey began with entrées: fennel slices at 6/10, beef tartare with a strong capers flavor at 7/10, and an overly salty onion soup gratinée at 6/10. The main courses were a hit or miss, with the monkfish and mashed potato standing out at 8/10, while the duck confit was too salty, scoring a 6/10. The meal concluded with a decent almond cake, rated 6/10. In summary, the ambiance and service were highlights. It's worth another visit.
I live in NYC but I always make a point to visit this restaurant when I come up to Ithaca to visit my folks. It’s one of only two restaurants here that meets the high quality standards of a big city like New York. Great food, great service, I can’t recommend this place more if you’re looking for fine dining in the area. Tip: try the vieux carre.
I've only been here twice, but this place has definitely become my favorite restaurant. We got the heirloom tomatoes this time and they were the best I've ever had. The French onion soup was exceptional, just like the last time I was here and the scallops were delicious! The only unfortunate thing is that they don't take reservations, but I definitely don't mind waiting outside for a little for this food!
Excellent service and exceptional food, best of the sit-down dinner restaurants I've eaten at in Ithaca. Photos: French 75 Salad Lyonnaise Ricotta Gnocchi Duck Breast