Book a table at Clarkson, Georges Forgeois’s sixth Manhattan bôite, which just opened its doors. A departure from traditional French bistros and Mr. Forgeois’s other trendy eateries like Café Noir, Bar Tabac, Le Singe Vert, Cercle Rouge and Jules Bistro, Clarkson’s menu is tailored for the jet set. “Having grown up in Africa and France,” Mr. Forgeois explains, “the concept of Clarkson is inspired by my travels around the world.” The dining room seats 70 and evokes a deluxe train car straight out of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, so stretch and curl that Hercule Poirot moustache. There is also a U-shaped mahogany bar that recalls another luxe staple: the high-polished private boat. Dishes include such trans-world delicacies as charred octopus and a braised rabbit sandwich as well as an extensive raw bar.
Clarkson, 225 Varick Street, (212) 675-2474.
