The original in the City of Brotherly Love garnered so much affection, that restaurateur Stephen Starr took the plunge to bring his big Buddha dining bonanza to New York City. And indeed, Buddakan is dramatic.

Chef Pichet Ong says it’s the ultimate in people watching, and it’s certainly worth it to take a little tour through the series of oak-paneled rooms that comprise the myriad settings for feasting on Lon Symensma’s modern Asian dishes, with the great hall of two-storey-high ceilings, gape-worthy chandeliers and table for 30 or so being the central eye-catcher.

Even the cocktails seem to have a bit of theater about them, with names like Fate, Charm, and Tempest given to the imbibe-able creations. Chef Rocco Cadolini tips his hat to the outstanding service – all the better to enjoy the outstanding roasted Peking duck, ginger-crusted lamb chops, or lobster and shrimp chow fun.