The feel of Balthazar seems hopping and festive to me. I tried and can't get in, so I was looking for something similar. I will check back as the week progresses, but I wanted a few stand-bys.

Need a celebratory dinner place for a birthday on in Mid-town. Is Tavern-on-the-Green old and busted? What feels like an event, but not too stuffy for the kids?

I'm doing a mom & daughter weekend with a friend and our 10-year-olds. We're staying at the London and seeing 2 shows and other than that, I was wondering what some great NYC dining experiences would be. I remember liking August and Spotted Pig, but maybe with kids, it's more like Balthazar & Magnolia Bakery. We'll be near the Theater District, Nat. History Museum, Skating in the park and I know we have to hit Dylan's Candy bar. Happy to get recs on Asian (Vietnamese?) (Malasian?), pizza, Italian, don't-miss NYC institutions, or cool secret holes in the wall. Lastly, is Serendipity tourist junk, or is it worth it for the kids?