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Named after a Eurasian bird symbolizing the union of owners Chantal and Kenneth Gin, Alouette is a beacon of sophistication in an area of town not known for great restaurants. The space was designed by Ilan Waisbrod: Golden tones and red velvet curtains create an intimate setting for French treats like a creamy goat cheese tartelette or garlicky escargots. The pan-seared diver sea scallops and juicy sirloin steak served with tongue-tingling pepper sauce are other delights that make it worth the trip uptown. Arrive early to take advantage of the prix-fixe menu. — Sandra Nygaard

Sun.—Thu., 5:30 p.m.—7 p.m.; Fri.—Sun., 5:30 p.m.—6:30 p.m.; three courses, $25.

Goat cheese tartelette, $10; monkfish fricassee, $20; breast of duck and sausage, $22; sirloin steak with pommes frites and pepper sauce, $23; warm Valrhona chocolate gateau, $8