What was once Keith McNally's Italian joint Pulino's is now Cherche Midi, a French brasserie on the Bowery. You can call this Balthazar Bowery, and you know what? It's great. I stopped in last week, and all three dishes I ate were delicious and fabulous!

Don't be afraid of Frog's Legs people. I love these amphibian legs. It tastes like a mix of fish and chicken, and done right, you will love them too. At Cherche Midi they come with a green garlic velouté, garlic chips, and crispy parsley. Perfection. Great.

The other two dishes I ate blew me away. The Prime Rib Burger ($21) has been getting some hype lately, and it's well deserved. Many people go gaga over the Black Label burger at McNally's Minetta Tavern- I do not. I think it's overrated. I did LOVE this burger at Cherche Midi though. Served with bacon marmalade, roasted mushrooms, and aged Gruyere cheese, it is pure burger heaven. Pure Joy. Yes, please. #Outstanding. The fries are great too.

Also, not to be missed is Cherche Midi's Steak Frites ($28), served with a whopping scoop of butter. Put butter on anything, and it's going to be better. This steak frites was sensational. Get it.

Deliciousness on Bowery and Houston. Meet you on the corner. A magical night awaits.

Cherche Midi

282 Bowery (and Houston)

New York, NY 10012

212-226-3055

www.cherchemidiny.com