French chefs make measurements using the metric system, as opposed to the cups, gallons, and children's galosh of America's cooks. Enjoy some authentically prepared French fare with today's Groupon: for $58, you get a tasting menu for two people at Madison Bistro on Madison Avenue (a $116 value). The tasting menu is selected daily by the chef and may vary.

Chef Claude Godard, a celebrated, Burgundy-born epicurean master, conducts succulent orchestras of flavor, scent, and presentation with each tasting menu. Selections for the five-course tasting menu are plucked purposefully from the restaurant's toothsome regulars, creating a culinary roster as well-rounded as Julia Child's kickball team. Rouse appetites with the daily appetizer, which may consist of a diver sea scallop tart with scallion fondue, resplendent in vinaigrette. Hearty entrees include a delectable veal cutlet regaled in a crown of asparagus and parmesan, and tender lamb stewed in eggplant gratin. Taste buds can venture into the dulcet domain of desserts, including grapefruit napoleon, chocolate molten cake, and apple terrine, which is forged, like a Las Vegas fairy tale, over the course of 24 hours.

With its chic wall hangings, potted palms, and gleaming bar,
Madison Bistro's warm-hued, Mediterranean interior serves as an intimate, casual frame for elegant franco-fodder.