Benoit
photo: Ryan Charles
Fifty-fifth Street just got its second Alain Ducasse eatery; modeled after the original Paris location, Benoit, which opened today, is just west of Adour in terms of location and south of it in terms of menu prices (which still require deep pockets). Housed in the space of the now-defunct La Côte Basque, this stunning bistro retained its predecessor's charming sconces while lightening up the room by covering the walls with blonde oak and hanging large photos of Paris; the black-and-white tones of the bar area, which will have a separate light menu as well as a list of champagne cocktails, are brightened by a colorful mural on the ceiling taken from an old French bakery. N.B. Bring a date, because on its classic menu, some of the dishes like roast chicken and the tarte Tatin are for two.
60 W. 55th St.; 646-943-7373
Benoit
photo: Ryan Charles