Dining in New York

Living in southern California, I’m not privy to all the latest and greatest restaurants in New York, so I asked for referrals from friends. I was thrilled with their suggestions and am happy to share with you my favorites. Some have been around for a long time, so they may already be in your arsenal of dining options while others are newer and getting a lot of buzz.

Le Coucou: An elegant and charming space serving classic French cuisine… I absolutely loved the interiors and particularly the lighting. Service was fabulous and the food delicious. A great spot for brunch too.

Augustine: Classic French brasserie fare in softly lit rooms surrounded by walls covered in glazed tiles with meandering florals and vines. Feels a bit like vintage Paris. Great service and lively bar. Also connects to The Beekman Hotel and The Bar Room which is fun for after dinner drinks.

Gemma: Casual eatery serving classic Italian…fun people watching. Again, lovely lighting and lively atmosphere. Eat inside or out on the sidewalk patio.

Sant Ambroeus: Delicious northern Italian food. I ate at the Soho location which was bustling with a fun crowd. The service was fantastic as was the food.

The Waverly Inn: Dark and cozy spot tucked away in Greenwich Village serving American comfort fare. Fantastic service and delicious wine. Loved the upscale English pub decor.