Prune is one of those neighborhood restaurants that immediately seduces you. The distressed décor—very Left Bank chic—is irresistible. The American bistro menu, devised by chef/owner Gabrielle Hamilton, is a list of guilty pleasures, from her signature Triscuit and canned sardine appetizer to more labor-intensive dishes like slow-cooked lamb shanks to her leftover dish of bread heels and pulled chicken. This is one of the most popular restaurants in New York for a reason. Although the tables are too close together and the waits are too long, the food is delicious, and the vibe is casual but fierce. Brunch is a must, and is served on Saturday and Sunday.

Prune Information:

• American menu. Dinner, brunch. Closed two weeks at end of June. Bar. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Credit cards accepted.