Le Rivage serves as a sanctuary for anyone who longs for the elegance of old New York. The theater district mainstay has long been a destination for anyone looking for a special meal before a show, but it owes its longevity to more than just its convenient location.

A family legacy: Fine French cooking is in Chef Paul Denamiel's blood. His family has been behind some of New York's most well-known restaurants, including the famed Le Cafe Du Soir, and Paul's culinary training took him to some of the most well-known kitchens in France.

Elegant, multi-course meals: Prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus give diners a chance to sample dishes such as baked mussels with garlic butter, coq au vin with fingerling potatoes, and decadent chocolate mousse.

Romantic atmosphere: Crisp white tablecloths, fresh flowers, and dim lighting are hallmarks of fine dining, but rustic exposed brick walls and bright, colorful paintings of the French countryside ensure Le Rivage feels cozy, never stuffy.