Close-up of Copain Pinot Noir wine bottle with glass

Our Story

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Copinette is located where once stood a landmark restaurant known to all New Yorkers called Copain, which is French for boyfriend. It opened in 1945 and was embraced by the neighborhood for 30 plus years. Copain was well known for serving elegant classics and enjoyed increased fame for appearing in a legendary scene in 1972’s Best Picture Oscar winner, French Connection. Gene Hackman’s character, Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle, stood across the street in a stakeout while he watched his targets enjoy a lavish meal.

Copinette, French for girlfriend, wants to continue the story where Copain left off. We’re honoring the history of this space but telling its story from a different perspective – a woman’s.

Located in Midtown East, Copinette, offers an American cuisine with French influence. We invite you to dine in our relaxed and refined dining room with feminine touches and beautiful chandeliers. Our menu is full of flavor offering classic dishes with our Copinette finesse. Our extensive wine list focuses on North American, French, and Italian wines with a wide range of price points to suit every occasion. Copinette is open for dinner, lunch and brunch. Come join us at Copinette.

Black and white behind-the-scenes image of a restaurant scene being filmed for The French Connection (1971 Best Picture), inside the restaurant called Copain
Black and white behind-the-scenes photo of the filming of The French Connection (1971 Best Picture) outside the restaurant Copain
Black-and-white photo of film crew from the movie French Connection shooting a restaurant scene in the restaurant called Copain in 1972