It's hard to live the high-life in New York City without taking on a second job can be a challenge. Anyone who has reached his or her daily ATM withdrawal limit before noon knows it's all the more reason to take advantage of the city’s bi-annual homage to the thrifty foodie-- Restaurant Week.

During this two-week event, economical epicureans scour the island to sample fare from many of New York's hot spots. Three-course Tasting Menus go for only $24.07 for lunch and $35 for dinner, excluding tax and tip. The Summer 2008 season is underway, so psychoPEDIA is on the scene to provide much needed gourmet guidance:

En Japanese Brasserie– Dinner Only
Japanese, West Village
Traditional Izakaya receives a modern-day makeover in the soaring space of En Japanese Brasserie, serving small plates with a focus on simple preparations that highlight the food’s natural flavors. The restaurant’s tofu, made in-house six times a night, along with its handcrafted soy sauce and miso, attest to the importance placed on all ingredients. The dinner-only, set menu features two of their signature dishes-– a Saikyo Miso Grilled Black Cod and Kakuni, Berkshire Pork Belly braised in Sansho Miso. This relaxed style of dining encourages sharing, making it perfect for a date. To that end, consider arriving before 7:30 to take advantage of the daily drink special, a selection of three sakes at $18 per flight.

Telepan– Lunch Only (W-F)
American Nouveau, Upper West Side
Inspired by the notion of seasonal eating, chef Bill Telepan promises a menu that reflects the best of what the area’s Greenmarkets have to offer, delivered in a suitably relaxed setting that alludes to the nature of the cuisine. Summer is the ideal time to appreciate locally-grown produce, and the restaurant’s bountiful offerings allow freshness to take center stage. Start with Panzanella, a rustic Italian bread salad accented by heirloom tomatoes and Tuscan olive oil, and follow it with an entrée of Pan-Roasted Trout or duet of Soft Shell Crab and Crab Cake. After your meal, take a stroll to Strawberry Fields in Central Park.

Mesa Grill– Lunch and Dinner
American/Southwest, Union Square
At his flagship restaurant, Mesa Grill, chef Bobby Flay combines the bold flavors of the American Southwest with the sophistication of classic culinary techniques to create his innovative style. The food is truly a study in contrasts, blending fiery with refreshing and sweet with tart, allowing each dish to burst with a wide range of tastes. Spicy Salmon Tartare balances heat with an avocado relish; and a Sixteen Spice Crusted Chicken mellows the bite of garlic by roasting it before adding the tang of mango to the accompanying sauce. While you’re in the neighborhood, stop by the Union Square Farmer's Market (M, W, F, Sat) to work up your appetite while exploring the region’s harvest.

Blue Smoke– Lunch and Dinner
Barbeque, Gramercy
Where else but NYC could you find the finger-licking goodness of down home barbeque elevated to the status of haute cuisine? Blue Smoke offers slightly updated versions of diverse regional styles ranging from Memphis’ dry rub to North Carolina’s vinegar base, while maintaining the character of the original. Smoked Short Ribs are re-imagined with a Coco-Coriander sauce and served with creamy grits, while Chicken Fried Steak gets a much needed facelift with an upgrade to Sirloin. Add in Seared Baby Octopus in a Smoked Corn Broth or Ale-Battered Zucchini Blossoms, and you’ll quickly realize this is no ordinary backyard affair. With the option of $27 three-course wine/cocktail pairing at dinner, you may never look at barbeque the same again.

Tabla– Lunch Only
Indian, Flatiron
Rise above the bustling NYC streets in the balcony dining room at Tabla while taking in views of the Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park. Savor the unique flavors of India fused with locally-sourced foods, and you’re transported to the nexus of two distinct and colorful worlds. Chilled Watermelon Soup accentuated with lime, ginger, mint and capers is a perfect tonic for the oppressive weather. Berkshire Pork Sausage is accompanied by a smoked fingerling potato salad and dressed with a pickled garlic vinaigrette, rendering a distinctive interpretation of backyard picnic fare. Complete your journey with Chocolate and Coconut Crepes served with a Tamarind Sauce and icy Coconut Sorbet.

Del Posto– Lunch Only
Italian, Chelsea
One look at Chef Mario Batali, and it’s clear that the man likes to eat. That same passion for food is apparent at his venue Del Posto, a restaurant that strives to express the tradition and evolution of Italian cuisine as experienced in this country. The food is cooked with minimal pretense. Choose from a Minestrone bolstered by Aborio Rice and Basil Pesto or Speck di Alto Adige-– cold-smoked, aged ham-– alongside a salad of Arugula & Parmigiano-Reggiano. For your main, try a classic Ragu Bolognese atop spinach pasta. Linger over Caffé Corretto-– espresso with a shot of grappa, brandy or Sambuca-– before continuing your culinary education at the nearby Chelsea Market.

Chez Josephine– Dinner Only
French, Hell’s Kitchen
A pioneer in the revival of 42nd back in the mid-80’s, Chez Josephine remains a colorful landmark in the bustling neighborhood, evoking romantic visions of Paris in the 1930’s when Josephine Baker was at the peak of her fame. Taking the aesthetics of the Theatre District to heart, the interior of this inviting French Bistro is done up with red velvet curtains and sparkling chandeliers. The food is as eclectic as the surroundings and certain to please the palette. An appetizer of Chinese Ravioli with Herbed Goat Cheese and Ginger-Infused Veal Jus makes an adventurous departure from conventional fare. Moules Frites (Mussels and Fries) soak in a decadent Tomato-Pernod Broth and Saffron Risotto is enhanced with a medley of Summer Vegetables and Vanilla Brown Butter. To provide extra incentive for buying that second bottle of wine, the restaurant features live piano performances nightly.

-Scott J Lachut