Rijsel

Those lucky enough to have surpassed Rijsel’s two-month reservation waiting list can expect a much warmer welcome once actually at the restaurant. (Don’t be surprised if the maitre’d says hello and shakes your hand before offering a glass of champagne.) Housed in a former domestic science school, the highly esteemed Rijsel is equally adored for its homey atmosphere as for its back-to-basics French cooking. The focal point of the dining room is the open-kitchen, and the rest of the space features a décor that is part 60s mod and part industrial-cool. The seasonal French menu at Rijsel draws inspiration from Flemish cuisine, and the most popular dishes—like the roasted chicken with root vegetables— come from the rotisserie oven. Note: Rijsel is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.