"This over 25-year-old Keith McNally spot is an NYC institution that reimagined what a French brasserie could look, feel, and taste like stateside. Hugely influential for New York dining, Balthazar serves up a great meal at all hours (8 a.m. till midnight most days) in a lively space lined with massive distressed mirrors, dark woods, and red banquettes. From breakfasts that may include eggs Benedict or croissants, to dinners featuring seafood plateaux or steak frites, Balthazar is a New York restaurant icon. Take note that solo diners get the VIP treatment and it’s going to be very busy with the release of McNally’s memoir." - Melissa McCart