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A Carnegie Hill mainstay since 1978, this dainty, hole-in-the-wall French spot epitomizes the flavor of its leafy and serene, low-rise/high-end niche of the Upper East Side. Small sconces with cream and red toile lamp shades dot the white-wood paneled walls which are arrayed with a hodgepodge of mirrors, blue and white crockery, prints of flowers, and portraits in profile. White lace half-curtains skirt the windows and two tiny tables face a brocade window seat. Such colonial-style trimmings create an intimate setting for wiling away a few hours while feasting on French fare set off by Asian and Eastern notions. The kitchen injects zest into traditional dishes like roasted quail, whose succulent, dark meat is accompanied by a rosemary bread stuffing plus fabulously tart, juicy sundried cherries. As appealing as any single dish may be, you won't have to choose. Nearly all the mains and salads can be ordered in smaller tasting portions and two make a hearty meal. — Kate Appleton

Table d'Hôte's cozy space can be rented out for private gatherings of up to 26 people

Prix-Fixe
Three-course prix-fixe dinner from 5 p.m.–7 p.m., $23.50

Roasted quail, $25; lemon chicken paillard, $21.50