hat is code name for a dainty restaurant is actually a venue with a history that spans over 80 years ever since the Russian Imperial Ballet settled in the Big Apple and introduced a variety of Russian vodkas to unsuspecting but most willing patrons suffering from the Prohibition drought. Of course, the dry Laws have since been lifted and diners are free to select the accompanying alcoholic beverage without risking the cuffs.

This location is perfect for a pre-theatre meal where you can feast on an aptly red-colored Tea Room Borscht and a delicious Burger Pojarski – milk fed veal with red onion marmalade, cave aged gruyere cheese and crispy potato. Add the Valrhona Chocolate Dome for dessert and you’ll understand how this Russian venue survived through Cold War and America’s fear of communism. - E.J.