231550 Tue Feb 28 13:32:04 -0800 2006 7 18 Manhattan 0 1229282 Can someone recommend a really good one? Tue Feb 28 13:32:04 -0800 2006 0 J Goldman 1 1229285 Counter, 1st Ave. and 7th St., is excellent. Caravan of Dreams, just east of 1st on 6th, is good and hearty, but several steps below Counter. Tue Feb 28 13:34:32 -0800 2006 1229282 0 JulesEV 2 1229483 I agree that Counter is the better choice. It has a really extensive drink menu and the space is roomy and well laid out. I thought Heirloom was ok but nothing special. They add some touches that make it a nice experience but overall I wished the food tasted better. For example, they came over with a faux oyster that was a mushroom in a shell and while I appreciate the effort it just didn't taste good. Wed Mar 01 12:55:51 -0800 2006 1229285 0 Joanie 1 1229336 I haven't been, but the new Heirloom has been getting some good press. Do a control-f search for Heirloom. I believe there are some reviews. Link: http://www.heirloomnyc.com/ Tue Feb 28 15:56:08 -0800 2006 1229282 0 Lucia 2 1229435 I didn't think it was very good, and I think other reviews (on Chowhound, that is) have been fairly negative. Wed Mar 01 08:01:55 -0800 2006 1229336 0 JulesEV 1 1229464 Unlike some other posters I had a pretty good experience at Heirloom (except for the dessert) but for the money I think Counter is definitely a better choice. I've never ordered anything there I wasnt happy with, food-wise. Its just hard to go wrong. The kitchen can be a little slow at times, that's really the only problem with the place. Wed Mar 01 11:25:40 -0800 2006 1229282 0 Keith 1 1229549 For the higher end LES I've only tried Heirloom. I really think it's a like-or-really dislike place. I enjoyed my time there. The service was excellent, the atmosphere really nice. The food was decent, different definitely, and I'm not quite sure whether I'm used to this type of preparation. But I like it because it doesn't really follow what all other restaurants do. I'd say give it a try if you like things a bit on the fun side. Wed Mar 01 17:19:01 -0800 2006 1229282 0 zorgclyde 1 1229643 I really like Tiengarten on Allen Street. Casual, good food, good prices. The owner was very friendly when we were there. Thu Mar 02 11:46:49 -0800 2006 1229282 0 Amy