Le Pere Pinard, New York City

First time I visited this part of the Lower East Side, I was more likely to find heroin than haricot verts.

But, that was 1994.

Nowadays, this quarter, re-named "NoLiTa"(North of Little Italy) is hipster heaven, with a heavy dose of slumming runway models and music promoters.

Smack dab on the most happening block, Le Pere Pinard is the type of gem one only seems to find in New York City: a fairly upscale, atmospheric and AFFORDABLE bistro where a person can comfortably dine on a special occasion or a weekly basis, either/or.

The interior is rich in wood finish and gallic touches, with a cozy bar, banquettes and a sizable back garden. Service is as polite and attentive as a New Yorker can hope for in a mid-priced eatery, and the wine list is both varied and fairly priced.

Favorite Dish: Normally, I prefer branching out and trying new restaurants on my visits to NYC...but Le Pere Pinard is a regular stop. As such, I've tried several entrees; both menu items and nightly specials. I've never been disappointed.

One caveat: We dined on one scorching summer night, and the dining room boarded on "uncomfortable". It was a 100 degree day, but I don't think the restaurant has a/c. So, keep that in mind on those unusually blazin' days.

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Lovely, Candlelit, Atmospheric, Exposed Brick, Great French Wine. The quintessential place to talk over a bottle of wine with a friend or a lover.

Favorite Dish: Pinot Noir & Dessert