need a nice place for a birthday dinner

[epic]

The type of food doesn't really matter, she likes everything, it just needs to be really good food. I'm not looking for a romantic place, but it needs to have a nice atmosphere. Not stuffy, she prefers a more lively type of place. Budget is $70 per person or under.

[billyeats]

Try ALTA (w.10th/6th Ave), I just had a group event there and everyone was blown away by both the atmosphere and the delicious and creative tapas. It's good for either one on one or a group.
And yes, both Lupa and Balthazar are always good bets.

[JeremyEG]

You could try Lupa, Cacio e Pepe, Casa Mono, Tides, Tabla Bread Bar or if you want really lively, maybe even Balthazar. You also might like the atomosphere at A Voce but I thought the food and service were nothing special. Many on this board disagree though so you might want to try.