Pera, an upscale Mediterranean Brasserie that just opened at The Lincoln Building, has been garnering rave reviews. Bob Lape of Crain's New York Business, for example, described Pera as "an eye-catching newcomer deserving a stop on your must-try list." In the review, he praised the "modern Turkish cuisine, simple, flavorful and appealing," the "strikingly attractive, 130-seat restaurant and bar," and the "uncommonly engaging and helpful" waitstaff.

According to New York magazine, Pera offers "what must be New York's first Turkish grilled-meat tasting menu" and recalls the "panache" of the Ottoman Empire's Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, the home of Turkish sultans.

Pera is a little more convenient for New Yorkers, however, since it is across the street from Grand Central Terminal at 303 Madison Avenue, part of The Lincoln Building's retail annex.

"The location is ideal," say Burak Karacam and Cem Erenler, managing partners of BK Restaurant Partners, and owners of Pera. The restaurant features an open kitchen, open grill, and an open oven where home-made bread is baked. There is also a bar/lounge area near the entrance and a designated private space for special events.

BK Restaurant Partners is affiliated with the Turkey-based Kosebasi restaurant chain, selected by Conde Nast Traveler in 1999 as one of the top 50 places to eat, and recipient of several other awards and honors.