• Cuisine: French (bistro)
• Atmosphere: small, cozy, bistro, charming
  
• Attire: casual
  
• Ideal for: brunch, small groups/1x1, authentic
  
• Price: All items under $15 (brunch)
• Reservations: n/a
• Phone: (718) 472-4355
• Website: www.tournesolnyc.com
• Location: 50-12 Vernon Blvd; Long Island City, NY 11101

Brunching at Long Island City’s “Tournesol Bistro Francais” has been on my must-try list ever since The New York Post’s “Top 20 NYC Brunches” debuted in July 2008.

Susan and I met at the restaurant on a Sunday morning at 11:30. We were promptly seated and handed menus. While perusing the list of Tournesol’s brunch offerings, I quickly observed the casual, warm and inviting atmosphere. Tables on either side of us began filling up quickly, thus validating my hopes for a delicious meal.

After placing my order of two poached eggs with a side salad, I sipped on a robust double espresso (strong enough to awaken the dead/just the way I like it) and munched on freshly sliced, crusty baguette. Within twenty minutes, our entrees arrived. Plated beside a lightly dressed leafy salad, and served atop toasted English muffin halves, were two perfectly poached eggs. There was nothing fussy, fancy or saucy about this dish; it was purely simple and straightforward, which is exactly what I was hoping for.

Susan and I each spent $7 on our meals, before tax/tip/beverages. The value of our meal, the restaurant’s casual French charm and its proximity to mass transit makes Tournesol a winner in my book. I look forward to returning for dinner.