Llama San, Būmu, Leo, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because acclaimed chef Erik Ramirez’ foray into Nikkei cuisine is an absolute hit. At Llama San the Peruvian-Japanese chef nods to his roots with dishes like scallop ceviche in a leche de tigre sauce and Iberico pork katsu with udon verde and pickled cucumbers. With gorgeous plating, sleek interiors, and a beverage list focused on sake and pisco brandy, this restaurant is well worthy of its praise.

Because don’t sweat it if you didn’t make it to Teo before it closed; chef Joaquin (Quino) Baca has pivoted to this new izakaya. Here, the Momofuku vet’s menu spans from raw to yaki and plates to noodles, with highlights like crispy pork belly with pineapple and hoisin and seaweed-fungus ramen with miso.

Because the casual half of this venture from Ops duo Mike Fadem and Joey Scalabrino is open, and it’s dishing sourdough square slices worth a trip to Williamsburg. And while you wait for the debut of the full-service pizzeria next door, don’t overlook the exceptional runner beans, potato croquettes with anchovies, concord grape sorbet, and caramel ice cream twist.

Walk-ins only.

Because where better to celebrate truffle season than at Lilia? Currently, James Beard Award-winning chef Missy Robbins is shaving them over whole-roasted kabocha squash filled with Parmigiano fonduta and hazelnuts; stracciatella served with grilled bread; and vanilla gelato soft-serve with honey, olive oil, and sea salt—a special, seasonal addition to the off-menu “Italian Job.”

Because come for coupes of Champagne, stay for The Riddler burger. The creation, courtesy of chef Nikole Morsin (The Modern, The NoMad), boasts a layer of melted raclette and a side of crispy rosemary fries. Throw in an order of white truffle risotto with brown butter and Parmesan; ‘tis the season to indulge.

Because chef Efrén Hernández’s globally-inspired, European-leaning fare plus Babs’ handsomely elegant bistro decor equals a bona fide date-night destination. Try the tagliatelle with Manila clams, French ham, and mustard beurre blanc and the divorced sea bream, covered in equal parts herb pistou and pepper romesco.

Because the follow-up to eclectic, cult-favorite wine bar Ruffian has arrived. Expect natural wines with a focus on orange bottles from Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy and snacks like ‘nduja-ricotta crostinis and chicken meatballs with Calabrian chili and garlic aioli. A more built-out food menu is coming soon.

Because Kichin is the fun dinner spot that’ll remind you why you live in New York—even as the weather gets colder. After a successful few years popping up at music venues across the city, the Korean-American eatery now operates full-time in Bushwick. Boneless fried chicken thighs dunked in kimchi aioli; wheat noodles covered in roasted black soybean sauce, braised pork, and cured egg; limited-release beers; and hopping tunes will keep you warm.

Because the second outpost of Billy Durney’s Bar-B-Que temple offers more than just the same. In addition to the Red Hook staples (meat by the pound, lamb belly banh mi) Industry City offers a lineup of tacos (brisket, al pastor, Oaxacan chicken) and a game-changing pastrami sandwich.

Walk-ins only.

Because just when you thought that this city needs more wine bars, cue Cosmico, a Latin number from the Colonia Verde crew. In the space attached to Williamsburg music venue National Sawdust, you’ll find small plates, such as salmon tostadas and vegan chicharrones, natural wines galore, and a mezcal-heavy cocktail program.

Walk-ins only.