The deal: This convivial French restaurant started by chef Stephane Istel (formerly of the Daniel Boulud Group) offers an affordable set lunch—$32 for two courses, $38 for three courses—with two or three choices for each course, including starters like country duck terrine, and mains such as roast free range chicken. Desserts include their signature rustic apple pie.

Why it’s worth it: You get to try the restaurant specialities (the roast chicken and apple pie) even off the abbreviated lunch menu. (So you know they’re not just using the promo as a means of getting rid of surplus ingredients.) It’s a great way to sample their cuisine on a budget.