Need Great Scene/Decent Food in Manhatten

[Michael Florey]

Hello New Yorkers. I am coming from the prairie to NYC in November with some colleagues. Usually when in NY I go to the restaurants that I think have the best food. This time I'm looking for a bustling place with a cool NY scene and good people watching. But I don't want the food to suck. Doesn't have to be best of the best, but decent. Any place like that come to mind? Would appreciate any suggestions.

[Michael Florey]

Another new name. I have been stuck in my French rut. Thanks so much.

[MMRuth]

I went to Mr. Chow in Tribeca over the weekend - need to post review - and while the food doesn't blow you away, it's pretty good, and definitely a scene. I certainly prefer it to the mid-town Mr. Chow.

[chow_gal]

You could show them the Big glitzy, Food Network chefs, beautifully designed, 'experience' restaurants:
All in the same area; Meatpacking district
Morimoto
Del Posto
Buddakan
Spice Market (food gets panned on these boards)

Or there's the trendy, fun, hip, Paris Hilton, party crowds:
The Stanton Social, Lower East Side
THOR, Lower East Side

SAPA is also a beautiful space.

[Michael Florey]

Thanks much -- those are all new names to me. I will do some research on them.

[fauchon]

Union Square Cafe?

[Michael Florey]

I have the cookbook. That is a fine suggestion. TX

[Scott V]

Balthazar?

[Michael Florey]

That was our choice last year. We had a blast. TX