I'll be surprised if you can get into Babbo that week.

My brother told me that he had a disappointing meal at Balthazar a day or so ago.

Last Christmas week my husband and I had a fantastic lunch at Fleur de Sel in the Union Square area. We have had a lot of memorable meals in NYC, and that ranks at the top. We were surprised and thrilled by the quality of the food. This could be a big lunch before the theater.

I would definetly try for a dinner in the East Village if you'd like to walk around later. To my mind, the most interesting walking-at-night area... Along with Hearth and Gotham Bar and Grill you could consider 26 Seats, The Elephant, Casimir... wont be top dollar, but not cheap.

Among our favorite Italian places are I Coppi, Supper, and the totally under-visited Col Legno. On the inexpensive side. I Coppi is probably the most atmospheric of the three...

Dina4--have followed your advice and have secured a reservation at Gotham Bar and Grill--and am going to explore other options from other Fodorites who have posted. You guys are the greatest!

I had dinner at China Grill/CBS building Nov. 15 with former co-workers. Great appetizers but entrees less wonderful, and it was LOUD. Talking, clinking silverware, techno-industrial music, just a bit too much for us. We ate at Ada on 3rd Ave. on Nov. 11 and it was fantastic - I didn't know Indian cuisine could be that incredible! Menu is on their website; we had the chef just toss it at us (one person had been there before) and we ate so well & lingered so long, my cohorts missed their reserved time at R'feller observation deck.

Anybody have an opinion about Chez Josephine in Theater District?

Some love it, others find it just ok. I like it very much. It's fun especially late. Marseille is also very good French in the same area.

We would be going late after seeing The Producers--I had thought about Angus McIndoe which you didn't seem that thrilled with (from earlier post)--ah, decisions, decisions!