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We thought we had exhausted the weekly line-up of Duane Park’s performances from burlesque, to live music, etc. The other night we were treated to the newest trick up their sleeve: opera. That’s right, opera. We were hesitant when first informed of the planned performance. I envisioned large women, belting out full bodied arias that echoed off the walls and shattered stemware. How wrong I was. The youthful selection of singers graced the stage and moved about the dining room floor clad in elegant gowns. Each of the three singers performed a short aria, and then took a 20-25 minute break before singing their second and final pieces. The pacing was perfect. The performances were unobtrusive, pleasant and refreshing. My perspective on the genre completely changed. We found ourselves lost in the lively and haunting beauty of the performances.

On Thursday evening it was nearly empty. Competent server. Welcoming space. Duck confit was superb. Steak not so superb. Desserts (chocolate pave and pecan pie) almost inedible.

I first came to Duane Park many years ago and loved it. It's way out of my neighborhood -- I live on the UWS -- and so I didn't visit again until two years ago, when it was still excellent. I dined there again a couple of weeks ago (2/6/09 to be precise) and found it just perfect -- very pleasant staff; tasty cuisine, ample portions; all in a comfortable, attractive setting, in which one could have a conversation! I started with a delicious duck confit; then, remaining in the poultry mode, I had the pan roasted chicken, beautifully prepared and tasty; and for dessert -- a sublime sticky toffee pudding. I must go more often!

Just had a fantastic dinner at the beautiful Duane Park, the room is so elegant, you are transported to another era. Party of 4 and all the dishes were deliciouse, My Duck Confit was perfect, crispy on the outside and moist inside, scallops fresh and succulent. Very friendly servers, Highly worth a visit.

Duane Park Cafe used to be my favorite restaurant and one I happily and confidently sent all sorts of people to when asked for a recommendation. Early in 2008, there was a reno and new owners and now the only thing that's remotely the same is the name. Went once since - slow service (in a 1/2 empty room), took 20 min to replace a salad prepared not to request, 1/2 of the entrees were cold! This used to be the stealth secret of Tribeca residents, but unfortunately no more. Don't go expecting the gracious welcoming service or the delicious food you once got there.

This place is wonderful. I took my wife here for an anniversary dinner and were we blown away! I had the bbq quail as an app and then the Hangar Steak. The steak was perfectly done and not drowned in sauces. The potatoes, I honestly haven't had them done so well. Crisp like a chip on the outside and soft like mashed inside. My wife had the scallops, and after begging like a staving child she allowed me to sample them. Wowee. Better than what I had in Florida. I recommend this to all my guests who are looking for a place to chill and have a great meal.

Best thing about this place was the ice cream (so called gelato) we had afterwards. outside. Waited a long time for food & when it came was simply mediocre. Where was the cajun? Also, very mundane wine & cocktail list. As it got busier, the sound was just awful and the music was a bland mix of jazz and blues...I think