Lulu'

Few locations can boast a transformation (“Extreme Makeover Home Edition” properties notwithstanding) quite as impressive as the new bistro Lulu'. In a space that recently housed the nostalgic, out-of-place American Diner, this upgrade is polished, sophisticated and peppered with a perfect amount of mid-century glamour. Offerings like petite beets with wild arugula, chevre and pistachios, and pork loin with oyster mushroom, asparagus and cipollini onion are typical bistro fare but with a twist Manager Ijor Rajak calls "French-influenced gastropub." The entrance offers a sleek bar with a timeless look, suggesting Audrey Hepburn would be just as comfortable sipping a cocktail there as a modern-day fashionista.

See more: Nolita restaurants, French restaurants