I've mortgaged the house and sold my first-born child and have tickets to see "Turandot" at the end of April at the Met. Any suggestions for a wonderful dinner beforehand in that area? (HowardR. bugswife?)

If wonderful includes a place with a reasonably decent price attached, then you really can't find much better in that area then Picholine. It usually ranks among the cities best and when I've been, it has been consistently excellant.

If you want something that will not require selling your second born, then perhaps think about Rene Pujol on West 51st. While it'll require a cab or subway to the Met, the prix fixe dinner is a real bargain at about $45 per person.

There's a very pleasant and very reasonable French bistro type place I discovered recently, La Boite en Bois at 75 W. 68th St. They have an excellent pre-theater prix-fix, with a big variety at about $25 (I cna't remember exactly). Make a reservation, this place is small and popular.

I second La Boite en Bois -- good food at a good price. For fairly spectacular, Picholine on 64th.

I've three recommendations:
1. Josephina (conveniently located on Broadway across the street from Lincoln Center). Excellent dining.
2. Shun Lee West (also across from the Met on 65th Street). Chinese food doesn't get any better than at one of the Shun Lee sites.
2. The restaurant in the Metropolian Opera House itself. It's very elegant dining and makes for the complete Met experience!

Howard: we did indeed have dinner at the Met, and it was very good; thanks for the suggestion...

Happy to be of help.

Pincholine - French restaurant literally a couple of blocks from Lincoln center.

I know the OP already said they ate at the Met, but in case anyone finds this thread for a similar suggestion, Gabriel's on W60th is always great. Good Italian food, great service, and they will get you out in time for curtain.