Strolling the aisles of Neiman Marcus is enough to give one heart palpitations. For a restorative, wander up to the second floor for a demitasse of consommé, over-the-top pop-overs, and a bit of bubbly—and that’s just the prelude. While the ghost of Helen Corbitt (the celebrated doyenne of NM’s kitchens) hovers protectively, the bright dining room and outdoor balcony tip a chapeau to midcentury modern, and updates to the menu have kept things fresh and frisky for the ladies who lunch. We wonder why this chic spot is so off the radar, when the menu offers such artfully arranged soups (like gazpacho rife with spice), salads (walnuts, warm Brie, arugula), and sandwiches (bountiful Angus burgers). (9/12)