Now on Resy: Dept. of Culture, Ootoya, Raf’s, and More Local Favorites

Because this is chef Ayo Balogun’s critically-acclaimed home for Nigerian dining, where you sit around a large communal table for a meal that’s meant to feel like a dinner party. Expect lots of stories from Balogun himself, plus a chef’s tasting menu of dishes that include pepper soup and jollof rice.

A self-described “gastro tavern,” Nine Cases does not have your typical wings and fries. Here, you’ll want to order mofongo croquettes, huitlacoche risotto, and wagyu empanadas to go with your drink of choice.

Za’atar labneh, pulled lamb sliders, chicken tagine … that’s Local 92 for you. It’s a Mediterranean spot with a focus on the total experience. They’ve also got DJs and happy hour ($9 espresso martinis, anyone?) to keep things fun.

Head here for a meal perfectly suited to a casual night out with friends, perhaps before hitting the bars in the neighborhood. Order the tostones, arepas, and a tres leches cake for good measure.

You know the drill: Annie Moore’s is a classic Irish bar, so order accordingly. That means Guinness by the pint, please, plus shepherd’s pie and fish and chips to share.

You can trust a spot that’s been serving up Japanese fare since 1958. They’ve got three locations in the city, all of which offer katsu, gyoza, and crispy sushi rice. In Union Square, there’s plenty of cozy counter seating — perfect for a quick bite or making a night of it.

As the name suggests, it’s double the bread and double the wine (or, drinks) as Pan Pan Vino Vino operates as a bakery by day and wine bar by night. Head here for the charcuterie boards, spiced muffins, and sandwiches on fresh bread. And at night, be sure to order yourself some pan con tomate made with the housemade baguette, and the pollo con chorizo with oyster mushrooms.

It’s so named because this dining experience happens to take place on a double-decker bus while you’re actually driving around the city. If you’re looking for a way to see the sights while also enjoying a set meal of dishes like brie and onion jam or tuna tartare, this is for you.

A cozy neighborhood spot, The Blue Dog’s been steadfastly serving healthy-ish favorites for close to 20 years. Try the butternut squash fries, basil pesto chittara, or their goddess Aphrodite burger with shiitake “bacon” and brussels sprouts and pepper mostarda.

For royal Thai cuisine that’s inspired by the cuisine of King Rama V, head to this Williamsburg gem. Expect flower dumplings, sous-vide tamarind duck, and tod mun poo, or a delectable crab meat cake with red curry paste.

The only thing terrible about this spot is the name (get it?). The menu, with classic cocktails, foie gras-stuffed chicken wings, squid ink risotto, and fries with parsley mayo, is anything but.

Oti serves up superb “Romanian(ish)” food in a spot that’s both whimsical and fun — look no further than their logo painted onto the front window. Think pickled mushroom toast, flaky telemea cheese pastry, and housemade polenta with bone broth and miso. And do know the hospitality is as warm and welcoming as the food.

Crab and pork xiaolongbao, sweet red bean pancakes, and Wuxi spare ribs … that’s Steam. Their menu of Shanghainese favorites is long and delightful, best enjoyed in their crisp, bright space in Greenwich Village.

You’ll probably want to order a few pies here (we’re partial to the red hot chile), but don’t skip the homemade mozzarella wherever it shows up on the menu. Pro tip: Pizzette has happy hour every day of the week from 4 to 7 p.m.

What was previously a handroll-focused spot from chef Koji Kagawa has expanded its offerings to include crudo, sushi rolls, and crispy rice. Sit at the counter, if you can; it’s the best view in the house.

It’s a cozy, homey spot in the East Village that has you covered no matter what time you’re nearby. Sip and Co serves coffee, wine, cocktails, and small bites in their all-day space, and it’s perfect for catching up with a friend or when you’re on your latest read.

Zia Maria in Chelsea maintains all the neighborhood charms of Little Italy, albeit a bit more uptown. There’s wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, pastas, and plenty of affordable wine options best enjoyed in one of their yellow booths.

Everyone’s favorite macaron shop happens to have an exceptionally lovely café in Soho, complete with a backyard filled with cherry blossoms that coat the space in pink petals when the season is right. We’re partial to the tea service, for maximum aesthetic.