Bistro 821

One of the first restaurants to spark the culinary renaissance on Fifth Avenue South back in the early 1990s, it continues to reign as one of the most popular and daring. With a handsome bar and dining room that spills onto the sidewalk, it lets guests peek at the magic happening in the kitchen. Small plates, salads, pasta and seafood and meat entrees all take global cues, but with a sublime comfort level. Take the Kurobuta "Shake & Bake" Pork Chop with a smoked bacon and panko crust finished with mustard peppercorn gravy; or tuna with a crust of kalamata olives, capers and prosciutto. Pay close attention the night's specials, for that's where Chef Jess Houseman shines.