Hard Rock Cafe International ($25 and under)
The Hard Rock Café International lies at the center of New York City in Times Square. As with the dozens of other restaurants of the same name throughout the world, this one celebrates rock music superstars such as The Beatles and Elvis Presley with loads of rock n' roll memorabilia and contemporary items, such as stage costumes worn by the stars. This particular Hard Rock Café is one of the largest restaurants in the city, serving more than 700 people and boasting an 1800-square-foot rock shop, a live concert venue, and an outdoor space catering to private parties. The cuisine is standard American fare, such as burgers, fries and salad, and you can't leave the restaurant without one of its famous T-shirts that say, of course, Hard Rock Café International. This may not be one of the finest dining experiences in New York City, but it will certainly be one of your most memorable and affordable.
1501 Broadway
New York, NY 10036
(212) 343-3355
http://www.ny.com/cgibin/frame.cgi?url=http://www.hardrock.com&frame=/frame/dining.html
M-Su 11:30am-12:30am
Tavern on the Green ($21-$32)
Tavern on the Green has received accolades for its stunning location in Central Park and for its excellent wine list from magazines such as Where Magazine, Wine Spectator and TimeOut New York 2004. Not only is it already set in a magnificent spot, but its owners also accentuate the ambiance and scenery in various ways. They invite artists to show their work, the most notable of which are the sculptures found in the tavern's gardens. And according to local food critics, many people, especially visitors to the city, love the chandeliers, mirrors, and otherwise extravagant décor. Though the American cuisine isn't cutting edge, it is simple and respectable. This is a restaurant well worth visiting.
Central Park West & 67th St
New York, NY
212-873-3200
www.tavernonthegreen.com
M-F 12pm-3pm & 5pm-11:30pm, Sa-Su 10am-3pm & 5pm-11:30pm
Le Cirque ($70-$80)
Founded and run by Sirio Maccioni, his wife Egidiana, and their sons, Mario, Marco and Mauro, Le Cirque has been providing French cuisine to New Yorkers for three decades. In 2006, they moved from the Palace Hotel to a 16,000-square-foot space on the bottom floor of the Bloomsberg Tower Building at One Beacon Court. The restaurant is sleek and artsy with polished ebony panels and unique lighting. It caters to fashionistas and the high society of New York City and seats 95 people at a time in the main restaurant and 65 people at the bar. The menu includes pretty standard sounding meals such as Diver sea scallops, halibut poached in coconut milk and filet of beef, but expert New York City food critics rave about the quality of the food. Expect to wear clothes for fine dining and to pay a significant sum for your meal, but also to receive excellent service and an opulent dining experience.
One Beacon Court
151 E 58th Street
New York, NY 10022
212-644-0202
www.lecirque.com
M-Sa 11:45am-12am, Su 5:30pm-12am
