The golden dragons that wrap around this dining room tell you the place is special. The service does, too. High-quality, beautifully presented Chinese dishes, including Grand Marnier prawns and Sichuan alligator, are worth the price. The restaurant, and the more reasonably priced cafe next door, are a short walk from Lincoln Center. Daily noon to midnight. Reservations accepted. $$$. Most major credit cards. 43 W. 65th St., at Broadway (subway line 1 to 66th Street), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-595-8895. http://www.shunleewest.com.