Help a NYC 1st timer

My uncle and I will be in NYC for a cruise in Dec. We will be staying 1 night pre-cruise and 2 nights post-cruise. We want to do one pricey restaurant, for either lunch or dinner. We also want to do a buffet brunch so any recommendations on where the best one is. We also would like to try 1 Italian restaurant. We will be doing 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, so we want to try as much as possible So far the only restaurant I know I want to go to for sure is Pure Thai Cookhouse, I also heard that Johnny's is great for breakfast. Thank-you for any and all suggestions and/or tips.