Hi All,

I have to take a special guest to dinner in NYC. I am told that I can take him to any place I want as long as we don't spend $100 per person. He will be staying at the Empire Hotel, which is on the West side, on 63rd street. I don't know many restaurants in the area. I know Rosa Mexicano and Gabriel's but would prefer some place else. Could you recommend something of the same caliber as those two? We can take a cab, if needed, but not too far would be good. Thanks for your help.

Are you looking for another Mexican restaurant? Or just a similarly mid-priced restaurant?

We love Fred's, which is casual and cozy (on 83rd and Amsterdam). We also like Prohibition, which is nearby. I don't know that these would qualify for "special" places, but they're good and reasonably priced.

How about Landmarc at the Time Warner Center. The menu is very approachable while being upscale, they have quartinos of wine, and a great view of central park with a New York City atmosphere.

Have you tried Ouest (pronounced West)? I believe it's in the West 70s. Great food, upbeat atmosphere and beautiful decor.

Have a look at Bar Boulud.

Thanks for the recommendations. While I was waiting for your advice I did some search and suggested a few places to him. He said Greek or Italian would be fine because I had Molyvos and Abbocatto in the list. How are they? I think we can go up to $100 per person. Thanks a lot.

No idea about Molyvos and Abbocatto, but if Greek is fine, consider one of the two Michael Psilakis places. Anthos is the more upscale place, but I love Kefi (the more casual spot). Do the usual 3-course meal with two drinks, you'll probably hit $65-80 (after tax & tip) at Kefi; that number goes up a bit more at Anthos.

We will go for Anthos. Thanks so much.

Anthos is a very good choice. You may also want to consider Estiatorio Milos, a great Greek seafooder, and a significant step above Molyvos. Abboccato has disappointed us the last two times after a pretty good start.

Molyvos is at 7th and 56th St., not really the UWS.

I haven't eaten at Molyvos in years, but it used to be good.

Milos is always packed when I walk by.

What about Cafe des Artistes?

Cafe Fiorello is fine if the weather is nice and you sit outside. It can't be compared to a place like Picholine, though.

Fat Lady

Cafe des Artistes, while a lovely place with its famous and once-upon-a-time controversial Christy murals, is a shadow of its former self since its long-time owner, George Lang, ceased his daily oversight.