Greenhouse Cafe, Brooklyn

It's not really possible to describe Greenhouse Cafe in a single breath. It's much better to think of three images—a rack of lamb in a bright sunroom, seafood linguini with clams and mussels at a dimly lit table for two, and a glass full of pinot grigio resting on a bar—then merge them together in your mind. Because Greenhouse Cafe is a study in upscale eclecticism. French, Italian, and American influences pervade the menu while the atmosphere ranges from starkly romantic to jovial and fun (look to the live bands and karaoke nights for proof). And on Sundays, the restaurant's brunch extends its class into the morning hours while softening the blow of the weekend's end with bottomless pina coladas, bloody marys, mimosas, and screwdrivers.