Discover M. Wells in Long Island City Queens New York's Vibrant Dining Scene.

Nestled in the heart of Long Island City, Queens, M. Wells offers an unforgettable dining experience that blends French bistro elegance with innovative culinary flair. This spot has become a beloved staple for food enthusiasts and locals alike, renowned for its avant-garde take on traditional steakhouse fare crafted by Canadian chef Hugue Dufour. With a menu that surprises and delights, M. Wells elevates classic dishes with bold, playful twists — a true celebration of flavor and creativity.

Experience the menu highlights and vibrant atmosphere

M. Wells is famous for inventive dishes like the Montreal Smoked Meat Ravioli — a clever homage to a Canadian classic — and the indulgent Burger of Dreams, stacked with two patties, mushrooms, gruyere, and foie gras. The French onion soup brims with rich beefy flavors and caramelized onions, while venison dishes are expertly prepared to melt in your mouth. Desserts like sticky toffee pudding and pumpkin ice cream offer a sweet finish to a memorable feast.

The interior vibe is eclectic and welcoming, with plenty of greenery at the entrance and an atmosphere that’s perfect for groups or intimate dinners. Outdoor seating is available, letting guests enjoy their meals al fresco while soaking in the dynamic LIC neighborhood energy. Whether savoring a craft cocktail like a maple bourbon old fashioned or enjoying one of their fine wines or beers, M. Wells offers a complete sensory experience.

Community sentiment and what you should know

M. Wells enjoys a predominantly positive reputation among patrons, who praise its creative menu and attentive service. Diners often highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and eclectic decor that add to the overall charm. However, a few reviews mention occasional service lags or issues, underscoring that while the experience is mostly excellent, it might vary. The restaurant’s closing announced for the end of 2024 has spurred many to visit and savor this unique spot before it closes its doors after 14 memorable years.

Is M. Wells closing Yes, M. Wells announced it will close at the end of 2024 after 14 years of operation.
Do they have a kids menu No, M. Wells does not offer a kids menu but is considered child-friendly.
Is outdoor seating available Yes, M. Wells provides outdoor seating for guests.

History of M. Wells in Long Island City New York USA

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Long Island City, New York, M. Wells has been a beacon of culinary innovation and bold flavor since its grand opening in 2010. For 14 remarkable years, this restaurant carved out an exceptional niche by delivering an inventive fusion of Québécois and New American cuisine that delighted food lovers and critics alike.

Opening and Early Success

When M. Wells opened its doors at 43-15 Crescent Street, it quickly became known for its avant-garde steakhouse concept developed by Canadian chef Hugue Dufour. Its creative menu, featuring standout dishes like Montreal smoked meat ravioli and huckleberry rack of venison, captured the imagination of diners seeking something refreshingly unique in Queens' burgeoning dining scene.

Michelin Star Recognition

Just four years after its debut, M. Wells earned the prestigious Michelin star in 2014, a testament to its exceptional quality and creative mastery. This accolade solidified the restaurant’s reputation as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts eager to experience a sophisticated yet approachable blend of French and North American culinary traditions.

Legacy and Upcoming Closure

Throughout its tenure, M. Wells stood out for its bold menu choices, playful dishes like the Mortadella Mille-Feuille, and thoughtfully curated cocktails including the popular maple bourbon old fashioned. As a beloved staple of Long Island City’s restaurant scene, it became a hub for both locals and visitors seeking inventive dining experiences. However, the restaurant announced it will be closing its doors at the end of 2024, marking the end of an era for this innovative culinary hotspot.

2010 Opening M. Wells officially opened its doors, bringing a fresh, avant-garde steakhouse experience to Long Island City.
2014 Michelin Star The restaurant received its coveted Michelin star, recognizing its culinary excellence and innovative menu.
2024 Closure Announcement M. Wells announced it will close at the end of the year, concluding 14 years of culinary innovation in Queens.

M. Wells in Long Island City: A Distinctive Dining Experience with a Bittersweet Farewell

Nestled at 43-15 Crescent Street in vibrant Long Island City, M. Wells has carved out a niche as a captivating French-inspired restaurant that blends avant-garde culinary concepts with a welcoming neighborhood vibe. Renowned Canadian chef Hugue Dufour helms this funky chop shop, delivering inventive dishes that consistently surprise and delight food enthusiasts.

Highlights of the Culinary Journey

Guests rave about M. Wells' creative menu, which features standout items like the French onion soup rich with deep beef flavor and caramelized onions, the Montreal smoked meat ravioli that pays homage to traditional classics with a smoky twist, and expertly prepared venison that melts in your mouth. The playful approach extends to dishes like the Mortadella Mille-Feuille and the Huckleberry Rack of Venison, satisfying adventurous palates seeking something unique.

The restaurant's cocktail selection, including a memorable maple bourbon old fashioned, complements the culinary creativity perfectly, rounding out a fulfilling dining experience.

Ambiance and Service

M. Wells offers an eclectic decor with a unique ambiance that attracts groups and solo diners alike. The outdoor seating area and charming plant-adorned entrance set a welcoming tone. Many guests appreciate the attentive and knowledgeable service staff who enhance the overall experience by guiding diners through the menu and providing helpful recommendations.

Considerations Before Visiting

Despite its many strengths, M. Wells has some drawbacks that potential visitors should consider. The restaurant is scheduled to close by the end of the year, making it a limited-time opportunity for those looking to experience its inventive cuisine. Additionally, operating hours are somewhat restricted, which might impact planning for some guests.

While many diners praise the food and service, occasional reports have noted inconsistencies such as overcooked items or slower service, which can detract from the dining experience. These isolated incidents, including some concerns about food presentation and pricing compared to other local French eateries, suggest that expectations should be balanced.

Summary of pros and cons

Inventive cuisine offers a fresh take on classic French dishes with creative twists that intrigue the palate.
Unique ambiance and eclectic decor create a memorable setting that complements the dining experience.
Attentive service often enhances the visit by helping guests navigate the complex menu and manage portions.
Closing soon limits availability for new visitors eager to explore its menu.
Limited operating hours may require careful planning to secure a reservation.