Over the years, the softly lit wood - paneled interiors, starched tablecloths, curved booths, tuxedoed captains, and tableside service that once defined classic continentalstyle fine dining have gradually disappeared. Equally, the number of historic restaurants filled with character and old - school ambiance dwindle with each passing year. Yet, vestiges cling to life in cities large and small. Through vivid new color photography and vintage material, Classic Dining celebrates the great mid - century restaurants that continue to thrive in New York, the greater Miami area, New Orleans, Las Vegas, the Chicago area, Los Angeles, and across the United States. Includes a directory of mid - century restaurants across America.