text: This is the perfect restaurant if you want a balance between the pomp of L'Etoile and your normal Madison fare. I have been there on several occasions (mostly for special occasions). This restaurant is best kept for dinner with a friend/sig other or a small group of around 4, as that is the environment they tailor towards. \n\nThe chef combines fresh ingredients with a modern American inspiration to create a menu that is approachable, yet full of surprises (especially in the spices he manages to tuck into various dishes). I find that I walk out every time perfectly content...not too full, not hungry. \n\nPlease, please, please take advantage of the wine list! The owner, who has stopped by my table on 2 separate occasions, has clearly put thought into it. Servers are friendly, non-pretentious, and know when to back off.\n\nGive this place a try! \n\n*****\nOn a side note, I have noticed that a lot of the so-so reviews on here seem to stem from a misunderstanding of how fine dining works. This is not a place that you'll be in and out in 30 minutes, expect to have an experience. There are not waiters simply 'walking around because,' those are mostly likely backwaiters and not waiters. Also, Restaurant Week is never, ever a fair indicator of a restaurant's quality. Give this place a chance; you won't regret it!