Le Bernadin
The high-end French restaurant Le Bernadin is the project of famed chef Eric Ripert. Its menu is very progressive and inventive, and the price for entrees reflects these qualities. Ripert is known for producing food at high levels of quality, so few patrons will be disappointed on taste alone. Le Bernadin is decorated in dark tones and features an inventive menu with an emphasis on seafood. One of the most unusual items is the sea urchin risotto. Don't expect to come out of Le Bernadin for less than $100 a head, but do expect formal and efficient table service at one of New York's best places to eat.
Le Bernadin
155 W. 51st St.
New York, NY 10019
(212) 554-1515
le-bernardin.com
Osteria al Doge
Known for its exceptional customer service, the Osteria al Doge is an upscale Venetian restaurant perfect for an evening date. The seafood is usually fresh from the ocean, and the dark mood lighting makes for a romantic atmosphere. It is decorated in light, Italian tones and features wood floors and ornaments accented with beautiful floral arrangements. The atmosphere is casual-formal and family-oriented.
Osteria al Doge
142 W. 44th St.
New York, NY 10036-4013
(212) 944-3643
osteria-doge.com
Montenapo Italian Restaurant
The upscale Montenapo Italian Restaurant is located in the New York Times building and features casual, elegant cuisines presented in a modern style. The decor is new-age, featuring loud colored panels which contrast white upholstered seating. Some of its best-known dishes include the black truffle and mini tiramisus on the dessert menu. The dinner menu's star is the risotto tartufo, which features Porcini mushrooms and delicate black truffle.
Montenapo Italian Restaurant
250 West 41st St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 764-7663
montenaporestaurant.com
Aureole
Chef Charlie Palmer's flagship institution Aureole serves American Nouveau cuisine at prices exceeding $100 per person in the evening. The intimate dark interior is well-regarded by patrons and an aspect of the design that has made this restaurant well-known. A popular menu item is the yellow fin tuna "Wellington" which gives a classic beef treatment to seafood. Eat in the bar for lower prices, where you can get an entree for under $40 in 2009.
Aureole
135 West 42nd St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 319-1660
charliepalmer.com
