Nougatine. Jean-Georges’ more casual spot in the lobby of 1 Central Park West. Yes. The Trump International Hotel & Residences. That building. Where Regis & Alan Alda share a hallway. But. Hey. It’s great food overlooking the high rises on CPS and Columbus Circle and close to the Metropolitan Opera. To see the new production of La Traviata.

Apps were excellent. Butternut squash soup, fried calamari including perfectly crisped tentacles with a spicy sauce, and a sublime tuna tartare. Veal Milanese, Pork Chop, Seared Scallops main course offerings were bigger than expected and didn’t wow like the first course. The wine list is extensive. Had an excellent Brooks Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.

What a Christmas gift! Dinner and Opera on mAdBen. We three had so much fun.