The name recalls traditional French vegetable stew, but the food at this extravagantly designed, pre-theater powerhouse by Traci Des Jardins (Food Network fans may remember her from Iron Chef and The Next Iron Chef) skews more California, with American, Asian and French influences. All of it is nicely portioned and elegantly presented, with indulgent touches like foie gras and caviar. Couples looking to get cozy will appreciate the two-tiered, exposed-brick dining room with swervy metal balcony railings and a glowing fiber optic Lucite dome. Casual diners veer to the front of the space, where the J Lounge surfs the restaurant-lounge trend with everything from small plates (fried olives or duck meatballs with figs and olives) to full caviar service offered alongside cocktails crafted from high-end spirits such as Neisson Rhum Agricole and St. George absinthe.

Jardiniere Information:

• California-French menu. Dinner.