Visiting NY next week--rec. for an 'of the moment' restaurant that is ACTUALLY good, not just hype?

[CubanPunkInEmeryville]

I am visiting from California next week, and have already lined up dinners at:

CraftBar (been before and like a lot)
Cafe Gray
Lupa
Falai (been before and LOVED)

I'm looking for something that's relatively intimate, not terribly loud, not overly expensive, and not full of tourists! Your suggestions are most appreciated.

Danke.

[AimeeD]

Public.

[Nehna]

How about Blaue Gans in Tribeca for an Austrian bistro. Owned by Kurt Gutenbrunner, same owner as Wallse, but more casual. They dont take reservations (or at least didnt when I went). But there are bars nearby to get a drink before dinner (they have a bar area too).

Also Upstairs at Bouley is on the same block and another option, though I've yet to go to the 'Upstairs' part.

[lizziea312]

Goblin Market - great food and it just opened two weeks ago. Not terribly expensive, wonderful atmosphere.

[Porthos]

I always liked Craft better than Craftbar. Maybe you should try Craft in place of Craftbar or Cafe Gray?

Lupa is a winner. Babbo is another. You'll love them if you like Oliveto.

If you like sushi, Sushi Yasuda at the bar in front of the master.

Try Jean-Georges if you're still searching for a high end dining experience.

[wazup1999]

Craftbar recently changed their menu and chef. Hopefully you have been there since the change.

Cafe Gray - universally overrated

Lupa - one of my favorites in the city

Falai - just damn yummy

Momofuku - it is delicious, uncomfortable and loud

Mas - nice markethouse cuisine

[CubanPunkInEmeryville]

Ooh...i'm scared about Cafe Gray now! Thanks for the warning...& also re: CraftBar. I haven't been good about reading my chowhound lately since I'm so damn busy at work! I have heard great things about Momofuku & Mas--gracias for the tips.

[grapenehi]

I'm also going to be in NYC soon and haven't been in a while...what/where is Falai and why is it so good?