Essential by Christophe (NYC, UWS)

A little jewel box of a restaurant tucked just around the corner from the Natural History Museum on the UWS. It's been open for a few years and quickly earned a Michelin star.

There's absolutely a reason. Thoughtful touches throughout the experience, exquisite food, and an elegant (but not stuffy!) setting. Hot tip: the bar menu has one of my husband's all time favorite burgers.