At the top of a glorious winding red wood stair case lies the land of Tabla, where the service is informed, friendly, wonderfully attuned to their guests and never unduly attentive.

The decor is a gorgeous mix of old and new, and the high ceilings and features provide each table with their own special space. Some tables are spun around an impressive circular ‘balcony’ that looks down on Bread, another lovely, but less formal, restaurant below. Other tables sit under large windows that line two walls, one of which overlooks Madison Square Park. Two others lie in their own private spaces in the room’s corners.

But what you should come for is the Indian flavors, delicately applied so as to highlight wonderfully fresh ingredients in a wonderful fusion of the modern and ancient.

The choice is a 3 course prix fixe, $64, or tasting menus at higher prices. In addition, expect light, fluffy roti, one rich tangy Middle Eastern red, one creamy Indian flavored, spread, and a peppery broth served prior to the first course.