This recently redecorated steakhouse has one of the best views in the city, which is only one reason to make reservations for a leisurely dinner (it doesn’t serve lunch) and enjoy sterling service, an oddball array of appetizers (including a few favorites from the long-gone Trader Vic’s), juicy steaks and seafood. Benton’s Sunday brunch is one of the city’s last remaining elegant buffet brunches — a terrific special-occasion place — with well-laden chafing dishes, piles of chilled shrimp, excellent salads and pastries ... and caviar. — Charles Ferruzza
One of the oldest Thai restaurants in town, Bangkok Pavilion was looking a bit worn out before it was hit by a bolt of lightning in 2005 and burned almost to the ground. Owner David Chouang rebuilt, and the new restaurant is brighter and cheerier than its predecessor. The lunch buffet is vastly superior to the old days, and the dinner menu still boasts dishes with such lively names as Kiss Me and Lovely Sweet Honey Bunch. Even though Bangkok Pavilion lacks the style of its younger Thai restaurant rivals, there’s a reason it has such a loyal following: friendly service and traditional Thai fare that’s not too spicy (unless you insist otherwise). — Charles Ferruzza
913-327-7115
