Located under the best rib joints in Manhattan, they offer the same great food. What makes this place stand out is its consistent roster of top Jazz talent. Even without the 4-star food it would be one of the city's best Jazz clubs.

Situated on a quaint, quiet stretch of Irving Place, the country farmhouse theme is carried out in all aspects of décor and menu. The brunch is hugely popular, but midday lunches and dinners are also pretty packed for the hearty sandwiches and turkey meatloaf. You can even get chocolate milk with your meal. Now, that's country life.

One of the most highly regarded restaurants in the city, Danny Meyer has managed to transform American food into world-class cuisine. The service is impeccable. The atmosphere is elegant, without being stiff or snooty. Always fit for a special occasion, this is continental cooking done right.

Cheap prices and a sleek interior are just part of the story. For people looking for something slightly different in the usual Chinese, this is the place. Noodle soups and rice dishes are a step beyond the pale. A popular place for everyone from college kids to models from the nearby photo district.

A little Japanese, a little Peruvian, a little Brazilian and a lotta fun. This is not your traditional staid sushi place. Sushi Samba is a virtual party. The sushi is fresh and prepared by top chefs. The menu offers an eclectic variety of regional specialties re-mixed in interesting, inventive ways. With a few locations, many New Yorkers think the sushi outshines Nobu.

Vegetarians rejoice. An Asian take on all things vegetarian continues to pack in the crowds night after night. There are even a few Mexican and nominally French items on the menu. So good, even carnivores love it.