Conversation-friendly place for post-Xmas dinner for four

[citadrianne]

My family is visiting after Christmas and we need some good places to eat that have first rate food and a good atmosphere for conversation, not crowded, cramped or loud, the kind of place that makes you linger. My dad and I are foodies but we normally depend way too much on Zagat's.

Budget about $50 each. Any kind of cuisine. A vegetarian or healthy place would be a plus -- my parents both loved Candle 79.

[citadrianne]

thanks for the recs, guys. i'll pass them on to the fam (we're very democratic -- everything must be voted on).

also in the running are ouest and annisa -- any thoughts on those? never been to either.

[crinkle11]

You might want to try Le Refuge--warm decor, very very conversation-friendly, and very fresh-tasting classic French food. If you go at the right time I think you could make it on price, too.

The only time I went to Compass I couldn't hear myself speak...

[Spiritchaser]

You can look into Telepan on the UWS. I know it fits all of your criteria except possibly price. Also check out Etcetera Etcetera.

[idia]

I like Spiritchaser's recs and would add Compass and Vice Versa.