An old friend coming to town

[ToastMaster]

An old friend is coming to town (a rare occasion). She wants to go to the Guggenheim and/or go to lunch, not necessarily in that order. She would go anywhere I suggested but I persuaded her to tell me what her preference would be:

"Elegant but not stuffy, classy, upbeat not staid, chic but not too too dressy, not too young and not too old [we are 45]. Must have tablecloths."

Suggestions? It doesn't have to be near the Guggenheim but it should be in Manhattan. Those who are picky about where they dine are especially welcome to weigh in.

Thank you!

[ToastMaster]

Thanks for the suggestions. I will check out Cafe Sabarsky and can't believe I didn't even think of Jean-George (now I will have to go out and biy a chic outfit!). I welcome any other suggestions, as well. I will try to remember to post where we went. Thanks, again!

[MMRuth]

I think Sabarsky is a lovely choice, but I'm pretty sure they don't have tablecloths - at least at lunch.

[ToastMaster]

Do you have any other suggestions? Thanks.

[MMRuth]

Cafe Boulud is relatively close by and is more formal.

[xigua]

I thought of Cafe Boulud too. Had another nice lunch about 2 months ago.
www.orderinny.wordpress.com

[steve h.]

lunch at le berardin is very good, not stuffy. men must wear a jacket. price is damned reasonable at lunch. reservation is a good idea.

[Simon]

if she was willing to do a dinner, Scarpetta would fit those criteria perfectly...but they are not open for lunch...

i've never been to Fleur de Sel but based on descriptions here, it might fit...

Gramercy Tavern or EMP also could work...

[vatl619]

for something nearby with some elegance and charm, i'd do cafe sabarsky at the neue gallery.

also, sticking to the neighborhood - etats unis came to mind, but i have heard more and more mixed reviews about it recently.

[kobetobiko]

I second Cafe Sabarsky. If you don't mind a quick cab-ride, other great option will be Jean Georges for lunch. Great prix fixe and exactly the type of environment that your friend is looking for. Even spending a little extra for cab the meal is well worth it.