Le Cirque 2000
This legendary place has a long-standing reputation for its excellent French cuisine. Miraculous meals are served in close quarters. The wine list is extensive and reasonable. Unless you absolutely cannot take another bite, do not pass up the creme brulee. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for dinner only. Reservations required. Jacket and tie required for lunch and dinner. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 455 Madison Ave. (near the 5th Avenue and 51st Street subway stations), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-303-7788. Fax 212-303-7712. http://www.lecirque.com.

The Water's Edge
At night, a complimentary private water shuttle will deliver you across the East River to this fancy Queens eatery. Fine Continental and American dishes are served in a light, airy room, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer superb views of Lower Manhattan and Midtown. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday dinner only. Reservations required. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 44th Drive on the East River at Vernon Boulevard (the private water shuttle departs Manhattan from the E. 34th Street pier, to which it's probably easiest to take a cab -- the shuttle leaves every hour on the hour from 6 pm on), Long Island City, Queens, New York City. Phone 718-482-0033.