Scoring a table in one of Manhattan's ever-changing hip, happening restaurants is a coup in itself. Filled with celebrities, power brokers, beautiful people and the rich and famous, today's hot restaurants are as much about the scene as the cuisine. Here are five new restaurants with major buzz. Book at least a month in advance and be prepared to pay about US$100 a head for dinner.
Nobu 57
40 West 57th Street
(between 6th and 7th avenues), tel: 212 757 3000
Movie stars, rappers and the so-called suits running the media and entertainment industries make up the scene at Nobu Matsuhisa's newest Nobu restaurant, located uptown near the luxury shopping centre of Fifth Avenue. The exotic menu features signature New Japanese cuisine similar to that at his Nobu restaurants down-town in Tribeca. The same friendly service and vibrant atmosphere are also evident. If you can't bag a reservation, enjoy sushi and sake in the downstairs lounge.
Perry Street