You've heard about the reading room at the New York Public Library, haven't you? Then I need not go on. Just look at it. And you're allowed to hang around in there!

It was a warm evening in the city and not yet dark. We arrived, giddy and happy, and he ordered two glasses of prosecco. The waiter managed to fit onto our tiny wood table two plates of tartines, a legumes dish, and a tray of fromage. And then we shared dessert. I can’t remember exactly but it must have been chocolate.

The smell when you step in says it all.

A now-iconic Chinatown eatery with a mouthwatering menu of health-conscious eats.

I go here mostly because of the vibe, it”s a French bistro meets a plant shop and the sister restaurant to Tartine in the West Village. The Shakchuka and the fennel salad is delicious, so is the onion soup. Cute Rooftop during the summer.