Marcel's

Marcel’s may lure a who’s who crowd to its elegantly understated dining room, but there’s nothing uppity about the amiable and genuine staff, who expertly walk the tightrope between attentive and fussy. Patrons come to linger over French-influenced meals enjoyed over multiple courses.

Pan-seared foie gras atop duck confit and paired with eau de vie-soaked cherries, or grilled quail over a warm artichoke salad are certainly French inspired. Curried butternut squash soup with apple, black sesame and toasted cashew or enoki mushroom-topped halibut over parsnip purée speak to an entirely different influence. The almond financier with sunflower ice cream might be overdressed with too many flourishes, but with its buttery goodness, nobody is complaining.