By Jean-Georges, I think we've got it! (Nougatine)

Nougatine: Gently Roasted Fennel and Goat Cheese Salad
with Black Olives

Tonight we were going to see Macbeth in Lincoln Center which afforded us the rare opportunity to eat at one of the many fine dining establishments in the Lincoln Center area. It was a tough choice, but it came down to Jean-George Vongerichten vs Daniel Boulud. From there, it was just a matter of finding an open reservation. Nougatine won out and that is where we found ourselves for tonight's pre-theatre meal.

We started our meal with the Gently Roasted Fennel and Goat Cheese Salad with Black Olives. It was perfect to split for two people to whet your appetite for your main course. Speaking of mains, I ordered the Caramelized Sea Scallops with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Spaghetti Squash and Soy-Yuzu Broth:

Nougatine: Caramelized Sea Scallops

The Mr. ordered the Caramelized Beef Tenderloin with Miso Butter and Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Nougatine: Caramelized Beef Tenderloin
with Miso Butter and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

We enjoyed these dishes. They were cooked and presented beautifully, however they lacked a big "wow" factor. Surprisingly though, the Butterscotch Pudding dessert brought it. "Pudding" sounds so commonplace and usually lacks to excite, but the creme fraiche, caramel, and sea salt made it the most memorable dish of our meal.

Nougatine: Butterscotch Pudding

I would describe this meal as "solid". Nice atmosphere, great service, well executed dishes. However, I doubt that we'll be back given the high price tag and the lack of any stand-outs. 

Finally, apologies for the low picture quality. I wasn't about to go all food blogger photography crazy in such a buttoned up environment.