L’abeille à Côté

This jewel box of a restaurant is something of a rarity, as small dining rooms with even smaller menus are harder and harder to come by these days. To describe this as a bistro or remotely casual makes sense only in comparison to its next-door, tasting-menu-only sibling. Otherwise, this is a refined operation with handsome wood floors and tables, marble finishes, and a French-Japanese cooking style that makes the most of high-quality product. Think croquettes but filled with plump lobster meat or risotto finished with a runny Jidori egg and shaved white truffles. Nothing here is inexpensive or everyday, but for those who appreciate intimacy, privacy, and quality, it is a welcome addition to the neighborhood.