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The sunny, gold exterior at this neighborhood bistro brightens up the block even on gray days. The interior feels similarly cheery, with lemony walls and familiar décor—distressed mirrors, subway tile, woven café chairs, and tall leather banquettes. The menu spans the usual brasserie fare, like a crock of classic onion soup topped with crisped Gruyere; a nicely dressed frisée salad spotted with chunky lardons; and generous portions of plump mussels, the best of which is served in a broth of white wine, parsley, and cream that's perfect for dipping garlic frites. Newfangled dishes don't always succeed; smoked mozzarella is overkill on a duck confit pizza, making for a limp crust and muddled flavors. Still, locals and Columbia students are willing to weather the weak spots at this solid uptown retreat. — Kathleen Squires

Check the Website for nightly specials.

Frisee aux lardons, $9.95