The champagne flute stands tall and pretty and has been a prominent feature of many a celebration but the Flûte at Midtown is an endeavour to combine New York's cocktail culture with a French attitude towards champagne. Its speakeasy history is well sealed in its subtle lighting and intimate booth seating and couples could cosy up in the curtained nooks while groups could head to the plush lounge or the bar.

Sweet nibbles of chocolate and banana crêpes and fresh strawberries with whipped cream may appeal to those with a sweet tooth while the remainder could choose Vietnamese fusion spring rolls, yellowfin tuna tartare, foie gras de pétrossian or a smoked salmon plate.

Inventive sparkling cocktails are the main draw here with the classic Bellini-tini with a twist and if you are not averse to a bit of adventure try the Marquis de Sade where Merlot, Grand Marnier and orange juice is topped with Piper-Heidsieck champagne.