OK, I'll bow to some of the other comments. Perhaps with rising prices, some of my suggestions might not make it anymore.<BR>I didn't recommend Il Mulino because I felt that one would definitely go beyond the $50 range.<BR>If you're interested French, I will add and strongly recommend my NYC favorite, namely, Chez Josephine. A wonderful total experience--excellent food, ambience and service. Plus, the bonus of the most charming maitre d' in New York--Jean-Claude Baker, the owner.

You probably won't get into Il Mulino now. Books months in advance. You will also have a problem with the budget. FYI - Zagat lists $68 pp. I'd say that is right on target if you have dessert and coffee. But, it is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. The sister restaurant, Il Giglio (owned by the wife) is also excellent, though the decor is a bit dated. Zagat lists at $59 pp. That is also pretty close to the mark. I have to stay with my original suggestions--Beppe, L'Ecole, Lupa.

So Il Mulino doesn't do the standard 4 weeks or 1 month out reservations? How far in advance do you need to get reservations? I am going in December, should I call now?

Il Mulino takes reservations 6 weeks in advance, to the day. The restaurant is small and books up quickly. I suspect they also 'hold' a few tables for regulars and VIPs.