Dawat Haute Indian Cuisine   

The moniker translates as "invitation to feast" and you'll definitely want to accept that proposition. Dawat is arguably the best upscale Indian restaurant in the city (arguably because when it comes to chutney and tandoori, both Indians and New Yorkers tend to get a bit territorial.) Rest assured however, that this expensive, elegant eatery is unlike any other: More authentic than Tabla, more innovative than Tamarind, and quite a cry from the claustrophobic, sitar-obsessed Americanized venues downtown on East Sixth Street. Perhaps best known as the home of its chef, actress and author Madhur Jaffrey, the lean and clean atmosphere is spiced with inventive, vegetarian-conscious coriander and tamarind flavors of the famous Delhi-born star. Dishes like bhel poori, lamb vindaloos, chicken tandooris and banana leaf-steamed fish draw in singles, couples, lunch-time office workers and -- perhaps most telling of all -- native Indians. -- Yon Motskin