11. MENTON
Boston, MA
12. CHEZ PANISSE
Berkeley, CA
13. HIGHLANDS BAR & GRILL
Birmingham, AL
14. CAFE BOULUD
New York, NY
15. JOEL ROBUCHON AT THE MANSION
Las Vegas, NV

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Photo Courtesy of: Nicknmame Mike T

Cafe Boulud
New York, NY

20 E. 76TH ST.
212-772-2600
WWW.DANIELNYC.COM

Some of the best French cooking in the country can be found at this luxury bistro that many call "the best restaurant in the Daniel Boulud empire." Each evening Gavin Kaysen's menu features four different styles of cuisine: traditional, international, contemporary and market, and it isn't surprising to see the kitchen offering cassoulet, porchetta and Vietnamese pho all at the same time. The large variety of well-prepared dishes, highly professional service and a "wonderfully chosen selection of wines" make the place a top-notch dining experience. The downsides: pricing that is a bit steep for bistro fare, a "cramped dining room" and a clientele that is on the older side (one reviewer wrote, "I felt out of place being under 70 the last time I was there").