birthday dinner in the city -- Picholine, Degustation, or Corton?

Question

My boyfriend is taking me out for my birthday in a couple months, and after perusing my list of restaurants I would want to go to, I finalized my list down to three: Picholine, Degustation, and Corton. Would anyone be able to provide any insight on any of these restaurants and whether it'd be a good fit for a birthday dinner for two? We're both pretty adventurous, and these three restaurants would definitely be three we would go to -- just need some help in deciding! Hope you can help -- thank you!

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Degustation
239 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003

Picholine
35 West 64th St., New York, NY 10023

Corton
239 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013

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Degustation
239 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003

Picholine
35 West 64th St., New York, NY 10023

Corton
239 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013

Answer

We have not been to Degustation. I can only say two things about it: (a) a new chef took over not long ago, and (b) it's counter seating which, to be honest, I don't find appealing for a celebratory dinner, but you may feel differently.

We have been to Picholine and Corton. Both have delicious cuisine, albeit very different in style. 

I wouldn't call Picholine's adventurous; however, they are known for serving game in season (which to many people might be adventurous), so if that interests you, this is the time of year to go there. Service is cordial and polished. The decor is traditional, i.e,, tablecloths, comfortable seating, etc. I prefer the rear dining room (square-shaped and cozier) to the long, hallway-style front room. 

Picholine photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/11863391@N03/sets/72157622875676042/

Liebrandt's cuisine at Corton is definitely for the more adventurous person as his style includes many unusual ingredient and flavor combinations. Service is pleasant and professional. The decor is modern and fairly stark, i.e., white walls embossed with a white tree pattern. 

Since you have focused on these three, I presume you are aware of their price points and are comfortable with them..

ETA: I posted this before seeing your reply to Spiritchaser. 

http://thewizardofroz.wordpress.com

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Picholine
35 West 64th St., New York, NY 10023

Corton
239 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013

Answer

I've dined at both Picholine and Corton during the past year, and loved both dinners. Both restaurants would be great for a birthday dinner celebration. I would say that the food at Corton is "edgier", but both are delicious. Service at both restaurants was excellent. Location may be a factor for you: Corton is in Tribeca and Picholine is near Lincoln Center.

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Picholine
35 West 64th St., New York, NY 10023

Corton
239 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013

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birthday dinner in the city -- Picholine, Degustation, or Corton?

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