Balthazar

Keith McNally’s Parisian brasserie is the king of the New York brunch. Located in the heart of SoHo, the place attracts fashionistas, Francophiles and the occasional celebrity for the sublime iced shellfish raw-bar and such classics as the salade niçoise, onion soup, and steak frites. Do beware of long waits on the weekends, sometimes up to two hours. In which case, just say, “Make that the bottle of Taittinger.” Once the bubbly kicks in, the conversation flows and you’re delivered to your booth, make sure to take in the décor too: the zinc bar, the stained mirrors, antiqued ceilings, and red leather banquettes will have you feeling the joie de vivre. Bon vivant, go forth!