Le Cirque

I'm not the biggest fan of French food but if I had to pick a top restaurant it'd have to be Le Cirque. Romantic, exquisite, upscale, friendly are all the words I can use to describe this lovely restaurant. Reservations are a must and jackets required for men, even though if you're a woman I wouldn't want to be underdressed either. For my appetizer I chose a salmon el crudo which I thought to be served chilled, only to discover that it was actually raw (I should've freshened up on my French). The basis for the dish was very unsavory and left me with a nauseating aftertaste. I exchanged the raw fish for a more appealing, warm and cooked dish, the lobster risotto. The risotto was creamy, light, tasty and not overpowering so good that I almost ordered seconds. For my entree I decided to go with a chicken ballantine with corn, arugula and maitake expecting robust flavors and instead the dish was very bland and needed salt and pepper. I paired my dinner with a white wine ($14) selected by the maître d' who was fantastic and attentive. For dessert I ordered the fruit tart and it was nothing short of spectacular. The dish arrived with an aromatic trail soon following. The pastry was fresh, even down to the fruit used to make it which could be tasted in every bite. During restaurant week the a la carte menu will afford a gracious dinner for $35 (not including drinks). However on a regular night expect to pay $40-$50 on an appetizer or entree alone. A great place to start your night with an appetizer and drinks or end your night with dessert but the overpriced flavorless entrees left me and my friends unimpressed. Overall the dining experience provided at Le Cirque from decor, light jazz, dress code and staff makes for a wondrous evening.

STK Rooftop

Exquisite dining, exhilarating nightlife, live dj and an inviting crowd is exactly what you'll find at STK Rooftop in the Meatpacking District. Nestled on the cobblestone filled Little West 12th street this restaurant is definitely a gemstone! I know you're probably wondering how did I end up in a steakhouse when I don't eat beef however the main attraction is not always the best or only attraction. I was seated across from a warm fireplace I could peer out of the one sided windows watching the folks pass by who couldn't see inside. My waiter arrived shortly, warm baked bread in tow. I decided to start off the night with a highline mojito and shrimp Rice Krispies as my appetizer ($16). My absolute favorite dish is the Parmesan herb stuffed chicken which was served over a summer succotash ($26). I ordered two sides (at around $12 a piece) the creamed spinach & the creamy Yukon potatoes and topped my meal off with a glass of white wine (Pinot Grigio $15). The wine list wasn't too extensive but there was enough choices to offer a variety. The best thing about STK is that it's open until 2 am in the morning on Friday & Saturday. My next trip will definitely be to try the brunch!