One would think another restaurant at Rockefeller Center would be superfluous, even though most of the restaurants are casual, office worker lunch spots. But when Brasserie Ruhlmann opened last year across the way from the Rink, tourists, passers-by and midtown suits finally had a sit-down lunch destination that caters to both the casual and business diner (although expectedly pricey given the location).

The tables on the o...

One would think another restaurant at Rockefeller Center would be superfluous, even though most of the restaurants are casual, office worker lunch spots. But when Brasserie Ruhlmann opened last year across the way from the Rink, tourists, passers-by and midtown suits finally had a sit-down lunch destination that caters to both the casual and business diner (although expectedly pricey given the location).

The tables on the outside patio are ideal for people-watching, or perhaps catching some of the US Open in its second week, when it is screened on outdoor screens on the Plaza courtesy of American Express. Critics have dismissed the interior as faux-brasserie style, with its high ceilings, banquet seating and apron-attired waitstaff, while fans enjoy the art deco motif, simple brasserie fare and decidedly un-Parisian friendly service. Shortly after its opening, famed chef Laurent Tourondel (of BLT Steak/BLT Prime/BLT Fish fame) took over as executive chef and overseas a well-edited menu of classic dishes.

Start with oysters, a salade nicoise or a steak tartare, then follow with a half roasted chicken, sole meuniere or daily special. The BLT touch can be seen in the addition of a kobe burger to the menu, certainly not a traditional brasserie dish.