This tucked away tiny spot in FiDi might be the hardest reservation to snag in Manhattan since its inception. Australian chef Lawrence ‘bridges’ his training in France with Basque and Eastern influence in a delightfully moorish way - unexpected pairings with classically trained techniques. The small evolving and seasonal menu uses local supplies (like soy milk and Montauk fish) for the few things they don’t make in-house themselves.

On one of the coziest streets of West Village, this French spot feels like it’s been a neighborhood staple for years, but its fresh take on classics, weekly market finds from local purveyors reminds you it’s part of the nouvelle kids on the block. Chez Maxime’s approach to South of France cuisine standouts are housemade pasta, creative veggies, fresh fish and excellent frites. Let the team guide you on wine - the lists are extensive and hard-to-find vintages.

Borgo is a NYC must. It’s been open for a year and brings approachable sophistication back to Manhattan, a place where one should be dressed accordingly. In a sea of experimental-chefs and noise, Borgo cuts through with a focus on food just done very well. Not boring, but not obscure. Regional Mediterranean leaning Italian like.. Whole roasted branzino? Probably the best one you’ve ever had. Many dishes are cooked in the wood burning oven for an excellent crisp on the breads and meats.

One of our favorite Italian spots in Downtown, Via Carota never disappoints despite how 'buzzy' or 'trendy' it may seem. The menu changes seasonally and the vibe is always energetic. It’s hard to get a reservation, so arrive early or late and go grab a drink at their sister spot Bar Pisellino, or cocktail bar While We Were Young around the corner while you wait.

I Sodi is the sister property of Via Carota and serves perhaps the best Italian food in Greenwich village - and therefore, some of the best Italian food in New York City. The good energy in the quaint and simply-designed room comes from people who are enjoying their dinner, not from hip lighting fixtures, hanging plants or dusty shades of pink. Everyone comes here for the cooking, no frills attached.

From acclaimed chef Ignacio Mattos, Corner Bar is a restaurant inspired by legendary bistros and taverns in cities around the world. In a space that lends itself to everything from relaxed breakfasts to lively nightcaps, they offer a menu of classic dishes like steak au poivre and Oysters Rockefeller, thoughtfully prepared, and a drinks list that includes a remarkable selection of homegrown wines and spirits.

Il Cantinori is another Downtown Italian gem offering Tuscan cuisine and an evolving menu with superb specials. It is very elegant, making it perfect for date night or a celebration.

With a daily changing menu, King serves up northern Italian and southern French dishes cooked by former River Café trained-chef, Clare de Boer. We love their interiors and design.

Raf's is a new spot in NoHo you can't miss. Located above Houston on Elizabeth Street, the ‘Italian & French’ concept brings new life into its century-old space, once home to the storied Parisi Bakery. Highlights are the Escargot, the Pork Collar, or the Steak Tartare. Stop by in the morning for fresh pastries.

An institution, Polo Bar serves classic American dishes — and Ralph Lauren’s favorites — in a setting that pays homage to the sophisticated equestrian heritage of his world. Make sure to have a drink at the iconic upstairs bar first.

For an excellent French meal, head to Le Veau d'Or, in Lennox Hill. The almost 100-year-old restaurant is reviving thanks to the Frenchette family. Don't be fooled by the checkered tablecloth and illustrative menus, this is not a brasserie nor a breakfast spot. This is where you take your parents or business affairs, as dinner is prix fixe and the ticket is a tough reservation to score.

New York City’s most exclusive restaurant, it’s the hardest reservation to get in the city. You need to own a table to get in or be lucky enough to be buddies with one of the owners. It’s a family-style Italian spot with a scent of the Godfather about it.

Lilia brings the best of Italy to Williamsburg with wood-fired seafood, handcrafted pastas, classic Italian cocktails, and warm hospitality coming together to create a casual dining experience, from revered Michelin-starred chef and Top Chef guest Missy Robbins.

Part natural wine bar, part restaurant with a regularly changing menu, The Four Horsemen is one of our favourite places to eat and drink in Brooklyn.