VIBE

Around the corner from the American Museum of Natural History, this restaurant hidden in a century-old brownstone townhouse on the Upper West Side possesses a bit of history itself. The main dining room is shaped like the tail of a dove (hence its name), and the understated décor (empty walls, non-statement lighting, no tablecloths, and gray carpet) keeps the focus on Dovetail’s sophisticated, market-fresh dishes. The menu and presentation marry formal and casual, as new, inventive riffs on classic fare are placed atop bare walnut tables.

CROWD

An eclectic mix of neighborhood locals. More mature, well-coiffed groups fill it at lunch, and a younger set of Central Park dates and tourists come for dinner.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Though technically upscale casual, it’s pretty dressy. We suggest a neutral button-down blouse with slacks or a skirt, and great accessories.

GO HERE WITH

Clients or colleagues; significant other; a date

WHY WE LIKE IT

Dessert here is no afterthought: you can’t go wrong. Dovetail is in a great location if you’re interested in taking in some sights as well as eats–the American Museum of Natural History, Central Park, and Lincoln Center are all nearby.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

A painting or two on the wall never hurts.

GOOD TO KNOW

Dovetail’s Sunday Suppa, a three-course menu for USD 46, is a great way to spend an evening with family and friends. A tasting menu is available at USD 85 for five courses or USD 135 for nine courses. On Monday nights there’s a vegetarian tasting menu available. We adored the send-home gift at the end of the meal–a little box of granola perfect for an afternoon or late-night snack!

CLOSEST COMPS

Hearth (New York); Lucques (Los Angeles)

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