With its tight-knit tables, lived-in good looks, and soft French music quietly thrumming in the background, this romantic little bistro could be straight off of Paris' Left Bank. Luckily for Manhattan, though, the infinitely charming Jean Claude is smack in the middle of SoHo. In winter, the room is decidedly cozy; while summer finds the front windows thrown open and couples lingering over the reasonably priced wine list, which boasts a nice carafe and half-carafe list. The French cooking is straightforward and delicious, with a solid lineup of bistro staples like tender moules marinieres and frites; seared hanger steak in a thyme, red wine and shallot reduction, paired with a sinful gratin dauphinois; and a spot-on rendition of crème brûlée.