Located in the same architectural landmark as the Four Seasons, designed by cutting-edge architects Diller & Scofidio, this fabulous French bistro is the perfect spot for a late-night crocque monsieur. The mixed drinks and desserts are always a crowd pleaser.
Coldwater's
Address: 988 Second Avenue (between East 52nd & 53rd street)
Phone: 212-888-2122
This traditional seafood place is known for its basic, fresh fish. Nothing too daring, nothing too fancy, but that's exactly why some people love it. There were a few complaints in days gone by about inconsistent quality, but word has it that they're back on their game.
Efendi
Address: 1030 Second Avenue (between West 54th & 55th Street)
Phone: 212-421-3004
What sort of cuisine are you craving? Italian getting old? French getting tired? We hear you. Efendi's serves up fabulous cuisine that puts an innovative twist on traditional Turkish dishes. This place is turning ordinary ethnic food lovers into Turkish-craving fiends.
Hacienda
Address: 209 East 56th Street
Phone: 212-355-6868
Drawing a huge crowd of loyal locals, the food is nothing extraordinary, but still reliably good. Quieter than most Mexican restaurants, maybe some believe they're still in the Sutton Grill (which used to be there) and haven't noticed the change. Either way, it's a place that can be counted on when everything else seems too much of a bother.
Jimmy's Downtown
Address: 400 East 57th Street
Phone: 212-486-6400
"Downtown" in the sense that its older sibling is in the Bronx, this Haute Latin American eatery keeps on bringing them in. Fabulous cuisine and a super-slick setting make this the place perfect for a fun night out.
Mr. Chow's
Address: 324 East 57th Street
Phone: 212-751-9030
Website: mrchow.com
This reincarnation of the early 80s place of the same name doesn't have quite the same buzz as the original. All the same, this high-end Chinese attracts more than its usual share of celebrities and locals. And on some nights, the occasional athlete or celebrity still drops in for a well-prepared noodle.
Nino's Positano
Address: 890 Second Avenue (between East 48th & 49th Street)
Phone: 212-355-5540
Website: ninospositano.com/
Named after a region in southern Italy, this place is a draw, not so much for the food, but for the warm and friendly atmosphere. Regis Philbin is said to be a regular. Fun, relaxed, it's a comfortable dining experience that might surprisingly leave you returning for more.
Ola
Address: 304 East 48th Street
Phone: 212-759-0590
A fresh take on Latin cuisine. Known for its ceviches, the food is fresh and the atmosphere funky. Featuring bright orange décor, great grub and good drinks, what could be better?
P.J. Clarke's
Address: 915 Third Avenue (at East 55th Street)
Phone: 212-317-1616
Website: www.pjclarkes.com
If it's good enough for Frank Sinatra, it's good enough for everyone. One of the city's finest eating and drinking establishments, this one-hundred-twenty-nine year old joint underwent a major renovation a couple of years ago. It's now back and better than ever serving up its famous burgers and eggs benedict. A true New Yorker.
Just west of Second Avenue, this creative Mexican place is reportedly owned by Placido Domingo. The seafood specialties and refined setting make it a hit for those looking for upscale Mexican. Not a place for a quick taco, the less complicated items on the menu hold their own against local rivals. But, it's the creative nightly specials that truly rule the roost.
Pietro's
Address: 232 East 49th Street
Phone: 212-682-9760
Website: www.pietros.com
Some people complain that this basic Italian place is over-priced for what you get. However, it's been around since 1932, so they must be doing something right. The food is exactly what you want in down-home Italian. Nothing fancy, just hearty family-style dishes just the way grandma made it.
Rosa Mexicano
Address: 1063 First Avenue (East 58th Street)
Phone: 212-397-0666
Website: www.rosamexicano.info
One of the cities most beloved (read crowded) Mexican restaurants, not solely because it's reasonably priced and comfortable. You may have to wait for a table, but it's definitely worth it. Don't miss the frozen pomegranate margaritas and guacamole (prepared table side).
The stuff that childhood dreams are made of. For years, moms have been rewarding their kids with a frozen hot chocolate after a long day of shopping is through. If great big ol' burgers and fries are what you're craving or you're in the market for a sundae the size of your head, this is the place to go. Fun, kitchy décor make this place an east side tradition.
This is the Palm's midtown rival for best steakhouse. Great food, a warm woody interior, wonderful service and a solid wine and beer list. Hey, if only the rest of life were this simple.
Worth the stroll across Second Avenue, this is traditional Sushi done right. Nothing innovative, nothing Americanized. What you get is incredibly fresh fish prepared with exacting precision. The fact that Sushi Yasuda offers up to seven different types of Tuna should give you some clue as to just how extensive the selections are.
Thady Cons
Address: 915 Second Avenue (at East 48th Street)
Phone: 212-688-9700
A great, traditional Irish pub. A little loud when the after-work crowd filters in, but the Guinness is grand and the Shepherd's pie warm and filling. A rustic country atmosphere adds to the charm. And there's even live music on occasion. Some of the best Irish eats in all of Midtown.
Another New York classic, but at the other end of the spectrum, this ultra-high end restaurant attracts the Armani and Chanel-wearing types angling for a power lunch. Whether you choose the Grill Room or the Pool Room, this glitzy restaurant will make you feel like a Rockefeller. The food and service are consistently stellar.
The Palm Too
Address: 840 Second Avenue (between East 44th & 45th Street)
Phone: 212-697-5198
Website: www.thepalm.com
Always a contender for top steakhouse in the city, this the original post of the now wide-spread Palm restaurants. The filet mignon is possibly the best you'll ever have. You can also get Godzilla-sized lobsters or Veal Marsalla if you're not in the mood to eat half-a-cow.
The Tapas Lounge
Address: 1078 First Avenue (East 59th Street)
Phone: 212-421-8282
Tasty tapas and terrific margaritas continue to make this place a draw. The atmosphere is some hybrid of dungeon and Spanish Villa. Either way, it's the ideal setting for a good ol' time, but tends to be crowded when the working day is done.
Viand
Address: 673 Madison (at East 61st Street)
Phone: 212-751-6622
This is the place to go for a tuna fish sandwich on the Upper East Side. Steps from Barney's and Madison Avenue boutiques, this humble diner continues to attract everyone from shop girls to business magnates. This is the perfect place to go if you get a hankering for a heaping plate of fries.
This high-end Thai restaurant will delight even the most jaded city taste buds. Not your standard curry, Jean-George Vongerichten's subtle creations will knock your socks off. Featuring innovative food and a nearly theatrical setting, this place continues to be a winner.
