MORE than a decade ago, the owners of Park Bistro saw that something was missing on the Manhattan dining scene.

Park Bistro's success springs from the experienced triumvirate at the helm.

Park Bistro is an inviting spot with a small bar up front, long red banquettes, pale gray walls, framed film posters and gentle lighting.

Park Bistro has deftly pulled together all the elements that define a bistro.

Park Bistro 414 Park Avenue South, between 28th and 29th Streets, 689-1360.

Park Bistro is an inviting, relaxed spot, with long red banquettes, pale gray walls, framed black-and-white photos and gentle lighting.

Park Bistro's new wine list is notable for its apt selection and modest prices.

Park Bistro, 414 Park Avenue South (28th Street) (212) 689-1360.

At the trendy new Park Bistro, the wine list is brief but rewarding, with almost everything under $25.

Jean-Michel Diot, the chef at Park Bistro, bought nearly 400 tiny individual pressure cookers for less than $1 each.