VIBE

It’s a who’s who scene at Chef Daniel Boulud’s quiet, minimalist, Michelin-starred restaurant on the Upper East Side (think: much sleeker than his more ambitious Daniel). The well-off and well-coiffed gather in a simply adorned dining room for superb French fare by award-winning Chef Gavin Kaysen, whose mastered techniques marry seasonal ingredients with classic country and global cooking traditions. The service is seamless and deeply accommodating, whether it be of picky palettes or vegetarian leanings. The entire experience feels deserving of the high prices.

CROWD

Moneyed Upper East Siders, ladies who lunch and brunch, wine connoisseurs, French gourmands, and fans of the Boulud culinary scene.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Stylishly casual bordering on dressy; we’d opt for a classy knee-length dress with chic heels and some colorful accessories. Jackets are recommended for men.

GO HERE WITH

A group of friends; significant other; a date

WHY WE LIKE IT

Look the part, and they will really spoil you here. We were especially pleased with the amuse-bouche prior to our meal. (The risotto balls were a treat!)

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It’s a bit pretentious. Show up in jeans or a slouchy sweater (not that we ever would!), and you risk being snubbed by wait staff.

GOOD TO KNOW

The USD 37 prix fixe lunch option is a particularly great bargain for an otherwise pricey venue. Wine lovers should make time to thoroughly survey the wine list, which offers a vast array of rare and interesting (if mostly French) options. Café Boulud is part of Daniel Boulud’s restaurant empire, which includes Daniel, Bar Boulud, and DB Bistro Moderne (New York).

OTHER LOCATIONS

Palm Beach

CLOSEST COMPS

db Bistro Moderne (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.