VIBE

Small wonder Tom Colicchio is a judge on Top Chef–his flagship New American eatery has set the bar in both style and service for restaurants around the country, with a warm design aesthetic complete with candles on the tables and soft lighting throughout the restaurant. The menu itself is broken down to the basics (think meats, potatoes, grains, et cetera) and works a bit like a build-a-meal: diners pick from among the categories to concoct a personalized meal. Famous for its focus on simple, fresh ingredients (the menu tells you where–as in which farm–your food comes from), the dishes at Craft win diners over again and again with perfect execution and essence of flavor.

CROWD

Foodies, expense accounters, splurging dates, trendy tourists, and Top Chef fans

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Though not strictly formal, Craft does cater to the cute couple crowd. Dress it up a bit with a form-fitting top, flirty skirt, your best heels, and a classy up-do.

GO HERE WITH

Clients; friends; a significant other; a date

WHY WE LIKE IT

Craft caters to every customer. Dietary restrictions? They graciously accommodate. Confused about the menu? Staff are eager to explain and suggest. And the desserts are definitely not to be missed!

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Because the menu is à la carte, your order might not taste unified flavor-wise if you do not carefully match meals with sides. And watch out–the price of so many sides adds up quickly. (As an alternative there’s a USD 110 tasting menu which includes seven courses (complete courses including veggies and two dessert courses). Add USD 75 for wine pairing.)

GOOD TO KNOW

Due to his other high profile engagements (and the number of Craft branches popping up all around the country), Tom Colicchio himself is rarely on site, if at all. If you’re not a fan of the intimate dinner area, dine instead at the adjacent Craftbar (which can be a cool scene in itself). Fun fact: Craft gives all guests a pair of cupcake muffins “for breakfast” on their way out.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Dallas; Los Angeles; Atlanta

CLOSEST COMPS

BLT Market (New York)

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