Elegant rustic French dining in the Theatre District.

The Scene
One of the city's most inviting French restaurants, Pigalle is a favorite among upscale theatre-goers. The small, dimly lit dining room is constantly patrolled by several competent waiters and busboys, ensuring that you'll never have to wait long for a water refill. The bar mixes some inventive house drinks (try the champagne and peach puree), as well as an impressive, mostly French wine list.

The Food
Described by the restaurant as ''French country'' dining, the menu offers up faithful interpretations of standards like steak frites and cassoulet while also serving several unique creations. The remarkable tuna phyllo roll appetizer, served with an assortment of pickled vegetables and a tangy soy-wasabi sauce, wouldn't be out of place in the finest Japanese restaurant. Among the entrees, braised short ribs are the definition of succulence. Desserts include rich ''fallen'' chocolate cake and creme brulee. Most impressive are the homemade fruit sorbets.