Hidden inside an elegant brownstone on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Aureole is a luxurious space bathed in cream tones and warm lighting and furnished with overstuffed wine-colored banquettes. (An enclosed courtyard garden opens for warm-weather dining.) The restaurant is friendly and cozy and well suited for just about any occasion, from couples looking for romance to colleagues looking to have a luxe business dinner. Owner and celebrity chef Charlie Palmer offers his guests a wonderfully prepared menu of what he calls “Progressive American” fare. There are always two tasting menus—one vegetarian and another inspired from the market in addition to a parade of terrific a la carte selections. The extensive and celebrated wine program includes bold wines from California, Spain and Italy.

Aureole Information:

• American menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed Sunday. Bar. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Credit cards accepted.