New York City: Le Madeleine (April 2005)

My spouse and I dined at Le Madeleine for lunch in April 2005. This venerable bistro went modern under chef Bruce Beaty (whose lively flavors reflected stints with Alfred Portale and Gilbert LeCoze). We feel miles from Ninth Avenue in the quirky all-weather courtyard garden. Lemon custard seals the deal. Grab a honey madeleine and catch that curtain.