I had known about Raoul's for years. People love the place. In the signature Foodie Magician trick of me guessing people's favorite restaurants, Raoul's has come up many, many times. It's been around for some time now (since 1975), and I just never made it in. Until two weeks ago, when I was performing at a private event around the corner, and I read someone's mind. He was thinking of Raoul's as his favorite restaurant. I read his mind correctly, of course, and I knew it was the universe telling me I needed to go. I went right after my show. Took a seat at the bar. And ordered their classic and popular Creekstone Farms Steak Au Poivre ($42), with hand cut pomme frites.

Raoul's is casual, a great neighborhood joint, where the bartender and staff will know your name. It's the regulars that fuel this place, and there are lot of them. I saw plenty come and go, and it was like one big happy family. A welcoming vibe to say the least. And how about that steak? It was great. True steak perfection.

I actually went back a week after, because Josh Ozersky, the food editor of Esquire, wrote that Raoul's had the best new burger in America. They only serve 12 a day, at the bar, only. So, I went one day, was the first to arrive, to see what all the hype was about. Was it a great burger? Sure. Is it the best in America? I wouldn't go that far. But it was fabulous. I personally think it had too much green on top, but it was one fine ass burger.

I could see why everyone loves Raoul's. A great neighborhood joint, where everyone knows your name, with delectable fare. Think CHEERS, by way of France, in Soho. See you there.

Raoul's

180 Prince Street

New York, NY 10012

212-966-3518

www.raouls.com