Brasserie Cognac: Oh, the horrors of being hungry and trapped in midtown. Head north past the seizure-inducing neon signs and throngs of walking-impaired tourists to find Brasserie Cognac. The latest addition to the Serafina restaurant group, this French restaurant is swanky enough to attract suits, but casual enough that you could show up in khakis and a polo and not draw a second glance. Dapper yet reasonably priced, this shrine to cognac (more than 100 varieties are available) is chefed by Alain Ducasse alum Florian Hugo. Start with a cognac-blended cocktail and plate of assorted cheeses from the cheese station (yes, they have a cheese station), then move on to the lobster flambé, which includes a tableside pyrotechnic display sure to impress (or possibly frighten) any date. Don’t forget to grab some caffeine and cookies from the bakery on your way out—you’ll need the extra energy to fight those crowds. |
