My mother myself and little (4yr old) sister will be going to the Nutcracker on a sunday afternoon and were looking to go out to a late lunch. Does anyone have any suggestions for us? She is a well behaved child but we do want to go somewhere nice, yet where they favor children. any suggestions?

I can't help you with the restaurant, but I just want to tell you that you will adore the Nutcracker. The New York City Ballet's production is the most glorious around. The orchestra has been on strike (don't know if it has been resolved), so the company has been dancing to a recording of the music. Personally, I think that is just as good. I've heard their recording and it's fine. If your sister hasn't shown a desire to take ballet lessons, she will after seeing the show. It's what got me hooked. ENJOY!

First of all, you probably don't want a restaurant in the theater district, since The Nutcracker is performed in Lincoln Center, which is a good 20 blocks-plus away. I can recommend Cafe Fiorello on Seventh Avenue across from Lincoln Center. But I don't know how child-friendly they are. Of course, you can always take your daughter to Tavern on the Green, which is not that far from Lincoln Center (about 3-4 long blocks). The food, while not great, is okay, and your daughter will love the decor. Defintely make reservations (212-873-3200).

The orchestra strike at the NY City Ballet has been settled and they are back.

Hi lori,

I'm arrogant but I can help. Try Shun Lee West (43 W. 65th 212-595-8895) if you like Chinese. They have a gold dragon that wraps around the interior of the restaurant. Very good food. You can also try John's Pizza on 48 W. 65th (they don't take reservations). La Boite en Bois is also good (874 2705 on 75. w. 68th). If you want to walk about 10 blocks you should try Remi (145 W. 53rd 581-4242). Let me know if you need more help Can reach me at [email protected]
Enjoy.

Well, if you look closely at sam's so-called great advice, it comes form several sources - first the Manhattan phone book - next Frommer's - and finally an outdated Zagat's. It sounds great - but com'on - how difficulty is it to pull name sout fo a phone book. You notice he says nothing about the food - has he been to any of these places ? I doubt it.

Dear Mr. Flinstone:

I have been to them all many times. I have season passes to the Met and see shows at Alice Tully often so I eat in the area 3 times a month.

La boite en bois is very good. Last time I went they had a crusted salmon dish which was unreal. The rest is very cozy. I don't know if that's the atmosphere you are looking for.

Johns pizza of course serves pies but its the best in NYC....very thin crust. They have the best White cheddar pizza in the world. Beware, the pies are large so you can take some home. Much better than the one in Times Sq and on East side. Sit downstairs as upstairs ceiling is way too low and don't sit near the door as its cold as people walking in and out. Remember they don't take reservations.

I would go to Shun Lee (make sure its not the Cafe next door). Order the scallops with lobster sauce (not on the menu). If you want to pig out you can try Neptune's boat (but it can be too much). I liked Chicken with Three Nuts (believe me its tastier than it sounds). Also you can get dumplings with black bean sauce that are heavenly. I gave you the ph numbers earlier bc I didn't know if you needed them or not. Anyway enjoy

Funny that Sam hasn't obtained an apology from fred samll yet. I usu. try to admit when I am wrong

But don't you understand, Jeff, that Fred's probably not wrong!

Maybe try Becco, on restaraunt row. Last time I went was a Sunday, and they had a great deal...prix fixe that lets you try (all you want) of 4 different pastas. Delicious lasagna, pesto penne, etc... Ask for a table in the back room, which is bright and pleasant.

I'm writing to stick up for Sam. He's brash but he's also kind and standupish. This Fred guy, just admit it. You got faced. You hate Sam but he's provided me with some excellent knowledge of NYC. Thanks Sam. As for noname you also need to give Sam a break and try to post something original instead of attacking this guy all the time.

This thread has gone far afield. Between Sam, his supporters and enemies, poor Kristin is not getting much info about places near Lincoln Center. Some of Sam's suggestions and my earlier posting on Tavern on the Green are within walking distance of Lincoln Center.