Zereoué

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Hopstop Subway and driving directions A refined, unpretentious bistro is probably among the last things you’d expect from an ex NFL running back, but it’s what Amos Zereoue delivers at his eponymous Murray Hill restaurant, where classic French fare and Côte D’Ivoire delicacies are served with equal aplomb.First-rate ingredients lead the way in chef Sow Abraham’s kitchen, as with the signature filet mignon, which is studded in mushrooms and swaddled in golden pastry before being topped by a meaty morel sauce. Pâté is served country-style, with an appealing, gravelly texture. Even workaday mains like roasted chicken get attentive treatment, the tender meat sealed in by bronze, crispy skin and matched with a caramel-colored au jus. Zereoue’s African heritage is reflected in specials like poisson braisé, a seared tilapia served whole and augmented with a hash of traditional spices akin to horseradish with fish sauce.The minimalist space is narrow, with a subtle Art Deco flair. Café tables topped by white tablecloths are nestled among African planters and iron wall sculptures. — Ethan Wolff for New York restaurants.

Zereoué Restaurant and Bar French, African, Bistro13 E 37th St, New York 10016 Btwn 5th & Madison Ave Phone: 212-679-9355 &nbsp Fax: 212-679-9448 Mon-Fri: 12pm-3:30pm &nbsp Mon-Sat: 5pm-10:30pm Serves: Lunch, Dinner Happy hour: Mon.–Fri., 5 p.m.–7 p.m.