I've been a few times - but I'm taking the gf for the first time. Usually when I go, I just get rowdy with the buddies in Midtown somewhere...so wanted some legitimate recommendations for dinner spots, cocktail joints, etc. (Staying in Midtown, but obviously down to Uber wherever)

Thanks in advance.

Les Halles - Midtown
Any place in Eataly

There are always places opening up, but these are my mainstays food wise.

All'onda
Sake Bar Hagi
Spotted Pig
Luke's Lobster
Peter Luger's

Dell Anima
L'Artusi
Good eats(just opened)
Upland
Marc Forgoine
Union Square Cafe (if not closed for move)
Beauty and Essex for Trendy
Nomad Bar for Hamburger or pot pie
Employees Only for speakeasy

I'm a big fan of west village, soho, east village and TriBeCa

I lived there for one year. The places that I would try that are affordable are:

Casa Mono/Bar Jamon in Union Square - It is a Tapas placed that is frequently visited by top chefs
Tartine's - for brunch. South of Union Square by West Village. They have been filmed in movies and it is a quaint place.
Good Enough to Eat - a brunch place that is in the upper west side. They have a strawberry butter that is awesome. There is a line on the weekend's.
Corner Bistro - in the West Village is a great Hamburger place in the west Village. Been there forever.
Frank on 88 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003 - is known for their lasagna. Very authentic. Does;t have a sign on the restaurant so it can be hard to find. Locals eat there.
Joe's Shanghai in Chinatown - is known for their soup dumplings.

If you have unlimited funds and time to make reservations - Per Se, 11 Madison Park, Daniel, Le Benardain.
Hope this helps