For the love of Mike (Bloomberg), don't…
EAT AT TAVERN ON THE GREEN

New York City is full of historic restaurants, restaurants with great views, and restaurants with amazing food. But visitors keep on flockin' to Tavern on the Green: It's the highest-grossing restaurant in New York City, for reasons that mystify the locals. Is it the obscured views of Central Park? The overwrought, faded decor? The gift shop that looks like it was attacked by BeDazzlers? Just what is it that keeps this joint so busy? One thing we know for sure: It isn't the food. Before you tackle the overpriced, underwhelming prix fixe, we urge you to consider: If you want one splendid, special meal with a view of New York City, is this really where you want to go?

Instead…
EAT AT THE RIVER CAFÉ

It is not cheap, but it's the real deal: The River Café (One Water Street, 718-522-5200) offers a creative, new American prix-fixe menu prepared by chefs who know their way around a shallot. The kitchen helped launch the careers of Charlie Palmer and Larry Forgione, among others, and is known for showcasing up-and-coming culinary talent. And the only thing better than what's on your plate is what's outside your window: The restaurant's dining room (pictured) floats—literally—over the East River, with spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan. Oh, wait, was that a cat we just let out of that bag? Yes, Virginia, the restaurant with the best view in New York is in Brooklyn—DUMBO, to be specific—and it's worth the taxi fare across the Brooklyn Bridge. Better yet, take the $3 water taxi straight across the harbor from Pier 11 at Wall Street.—Siobhan Adcock

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