After studying Zagat's for a cozy restaurant within walking distance of the New York Times' Arts & Leisure Lectures, we selected Madison Bistro, Madison Avenue in the mid-30s -- and were glad we did. Comfortable back dining room, competent service, tasty cassoulet and braised ribs, wonderful bread, over-priced house wine ($10), and only one non-sequitur (heavy metal playing on the radio in the empty bar at the front of the restaurant). Go for the food, drink somewhere cheaper, and ask the bartender to change the station!