MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand 2025

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The lovingly restored, 19th-century Les Arcades market building is the perfect backdrop for this gem of a restaurant in the Guernsey dining scene. Enjoy a cocktail in the bar before settling down to feast on wonderful sharing plates in a former butcher's hall with an ornate, double-height ceiling and original tiling. The menu interweaves French, Spanish, Italian and British influences with ease, whilst keeping the wood-fired grill heavily involved. Dishes like the lobster tagliolini show the kitchen at its best, boasting tender lobster and a deep, rich aerated bisque.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Traditional British. What a terrific little neighbourhood spot this is. A bar and restaurant rolled into one, start your visit with a drink from the concise yet quality wine list or classics-with-a-twist cocktail selection. Then turn your attention to the menu of small plates that showcase the kitchen’s unashamedly traditional approach with the likes of mince on dripping toast. Look out for the ‘Orbs of Joy’ – slow-braised Roscoff onions cooked in rich chicken broth – and save room for dessert, especially if that dessert is custard tart.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, European. A grab bag of influences from across the world fuse together to wonderful effect at this popular high-street spot whose precise, well-crafted cooking contrasts with its rustic appearance. Dishes like gnocchi with onion soubise showcase Chef-Owner Luca Berardino's French and Italian heritage, while others look further afield, such as the cleverly thought-out scallops with roe sauce and carrot kimchi. Uniting the menu is a pride in local seafood, particularly from Torbay and Brixham. If you want a special experience, then book the chef's table upstairs.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. An angeethi is a type of grill traditionally used in rural Indian households, and now it lends its name to this charmingly run restaurant in a Glasgow suburb. It’s a simple-looking place where the focus is on the joyously flavoursome food and the warm, caring service. Massey’s menu sticks to traditional, regional Indian dishes which are both well-spiced and generous, such as the ‘Old Delhi Murgh Makhani’, a fabulous version of the classic butter chicken. Ensure you leave some room for dessert, as the ‘Rabdi Faluda’ provides a beautiful balance of flavours.

Bib Gourmand • International. Next-door neighbour and sister restaurant to The Little Chartroom, Ardfern is named after a village in Argyll & Bute that brings back fond memories for owner Roberta Hall-McCarron. Describing itself as a café, bar and bottle shop, it has an appealing brunch menu, a relaxed air and a wine list that will delight enthusiasts. You’d be a fool to miss the evening’s small plates, however, which pack in plenty of flavour and have both a heartiness and a pleasing familiarity to them. The hash browns with whipped feta and jalapeño ketchup are a particular treat.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. Part-owned by a local fishmonger and named after an old fishing boat, this modern, wood-clad 'shack' overlooks Newlyn Harbour, where much of its produce lands. The concise menu offers great value seafood dishes designed for sharing, varying daily depending on the catch. Whether it's sardines or black bream, the grill-centric cooking remains pleasingly simple and wholly enjoyable, allowing the quality fresh produce to do the work. On-tap natural wines are served by the glass and carafe. Be sure to book a table on the covered waterside terrace when the sun's out.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Peckham may not be the first place you expect to find the spirit of Italian cooking alive and well, but there's no denying the straightforward joys to be found at this enthusiastically run neighbourhood bistro – which is named after Pellegrino Artusi, who wrote ‘The Science of Cooking and the Art of Fine Dining’ back in 1891. It's a small, sweet restaurant where the cooking is simple, honest and downright delicious, with the homemade pasta a definite highlight. The prices are fair, the portions are generous and the flavours are abundant – what more could you ask for?

Bib Gourmand • Italian. It’s all about freshly made pasta and great value at this lively Covent Garden Italian. Start off with antipasti like burrata, prosciutto or grilled artichokes, before moving on to the main event; there’s a range of pastas available, but the best of all might still be the signature ‘silk handkerchiefs’ with walnut butter and confit egg yolk. Sit up at the open kitchen to watch the chefs working their magic – ‘bancone’ is Italian for ‘counter’ after all.

Bib Gourmand • French. From baguettes to bavettes, there’s something so overtly French about this terrific neighbourhood bistro that it’s a wonder they don’t have the tricolore flag hanging outside. Its unlikely location in the Leeds suburb of Horsforth is a result of the relationship between Leeds native Sandy Jarvis and Frenchman Clément Cousin, who met while working in some of London’s top restaurants. Cousin runs the chatty service, while Jarvis is in the kitchen working on proudly Gallic classics – expect to spot delicious renditions of the likes of 'oeuf en meurette' and 'Paris Brest'.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Coming from the team behind EDŌ, this buzzy younger sibling is named after Chef Lottie Noren’s daughter. The space has been smartly converted with a contemporary bistro look and an open kitchen with the focused team all on display. They craft a concise menu of produce-led dishes designed for sharing, such as a tempura-like langoustine scampi with their take on a sauce gribiche. While pared-back in style, the cooking never lacks in flavour and there’s a welcome generosity to the portions and pricing too. Super-friendly service only adds to an already delightful all-round experience.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. In a great location at the top end of the city, this characterful spot combines the relaxed vibe of a wine bar with the attractively priced cooking of a bistro. Tasty, carefully prepared small plates – such as succulent monkfish tail with leek mayo and umami-packed charcuterie jam – are served by a cheerful and helpful team. The wine list offers plenty of choice, but you can also choose a bottle from their shop next door and pay corkage to enjoy it while dining; French and Italian producers are particularly well represented.

Bib Gourmand • Persian. Based on the hole-in-the-wall 'kabab' houses of Tehran, this is a terrifically fun little spot in the heart of Soho. Exposed brick and painted plasterwork suit the buzzy atmosphere, with the best place to sit being at the kitchen counter so you can watch your food being prepared in the tandoor and the mangal barbecue. The cooking is generous and flavoursome, with dishes such as coal-cooked aubergine or lamb shoulder kabab. There’s another branch in Borough Market, if you find yourself in the area.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Located inside a converted shipping container in Bristol's hipster-foodie haven of Wapping Wharf, this compact restaurant comes clad in chipboard and plywood – and with a terrace that almost triples its size. The husband-and-wife team offer a warm welcome and will ensure you're well looked after, with Tessa providing engaging service and knowledgeable wine recommendations, while Elliot crafts generous, boldly flavoured dishes. Soy-glazed onglet is a fine example of what this kitchen is about, as is the excellent panna cotta to finish.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Sharing. Within the charming Georgian hotel that is Number One Bruton, sits this attractive restaurant which we’d all love to have at the end of our street. It’s the kind of place that warms your heart, run with a genuine friendliness and enthusiasm that’s mirrored by the bright, fresh cooking that can’t help but put a smile on your face. Order three to four of the sharing plates per person and you’ll be treated to great value dishes that burst with flavour – like the buttermilk fried partridge enlivened by pickled shallots and tarragon mayonnaise.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. You can’t help but have a great time at this wonderfully relaxed trattoria. With its gingham tablecloths and walls filled with a jumble of pictures, it's rather like stepping into nonna's house for a couple of hours. The place is perennially packed and it's easy to see why, with a terrific atmosphere accompanying the hearty, meat-centric dishes that never skimp on flavour, whether it's the dough ball ‘cuddles’ or the pork and fennel sausages. The signature negroni is as terrifically well-priced as the food.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. Hidden away within Brighton's famous Lanes, it's easy to miss this fun, relaxed spot. That would be a great shame, as it's a terrific place with retro music on the speakers and cocktails flying out from behind the bar. The menu slots in perfectly with the culinary trends of the times, offering a selection of sharing plates based on produce cooked over a wood-burning fire. Look out for the Middle Eastern and North African influences, such as the creative, beautifully golden leek and spinach pastilla.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British, Mediterranean Cuisine. The brainchild of wine importers and a charcutier, Cadet is a compact bar and shop selling, unsurprisingly, wine and charcuterie. During the week, you can just enjoy some simple bar snacks alongside the wonderful selection of largely French wines. Yet from Thursday to Sunday, a blackboard appears, listing a treasure trove of well-priced and generously flavoured dishes. Expect the likes of pâté en croûte, excellently seasoned rillettes and slip sole with Café de Paris butter. The chatty team will help guide you through the array of enticing wines.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Chef-Owner Cyrus Todiwala is fast approaching national treasure status, while his charming wife Pervin is a welcoming and delightful presence in their colourfully decorated restaurant. Unless you’re a local resident, its location on the ground floor of a modern apartment building in the Docklands development, overlooking the Royal Albert Wharf, involves a journey of some commitment – but it’ll be worth it. Go for the specialities from the couple's respective Goan and Bombay roots, like chicken cafrael and cheese chilli toast.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. A trip back to Korea inspired Chef-Owner Joo Won to return to the cooking of his childhood and subsequently open this casual, friendly little bistro in the middle of Stoke Newington. His time as Head Chef of Galvin at Windows hasn’t gone to waste though, as his appealingly priced blackboard menu is a great mix of European cuisine with subtle Korean flavours. "Joo’s Fried Chicken" has understandably been on the menu since Day One, while dishes like Cornish pollock with mooli jorim pack an invigorating punch.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. There’s a fresh, clean feel to both the décor and the cooking at this welcoming little wine bar and restaurant. The concise but appealing wine list will appeal to traditional oenophiles, with quality established growers to the fore. The menu has a Mediterranean leaning, so whilst it changes daily, it will likely include a pasta dish and possibly some whole fish. This is cooking that relies on simplicity and skill, with immense care poured into dishes like peri peri octopus and duck fat crisps, so that the natural flavours shine.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The team behind two of West London’s best pubs, The Pelican and The Hero, appear to be just as adept at opening restaurants. The two chefs are alumni of The River Café and it shows in their no-nonsense, flavour-driven Italian food. The menu is a loosely structured document, but you can use the price as a rough guide to the size of the dish. Highlights include the likes of rich ox cheek with polenta and the homemade pasta dishes such as ravioli filled with courgette and nasturtium. They don't take bookings, so be prepared for a queue, but the lovely service team handle it well.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. Multiple terraces ensure this substantial-looking pub makes the most of its waterside location on the banks of the River Teme. Sit back and admire the view while you choose from a mightily appealing menu that mixes classic crowd-pleasers from both French and British cuisine; perhaps begin with fish soup, rouille and gruyère, followed by battered haddock and chips. These well-priced dishes are low on fuss and high on flavour, so be sure to hang around for the sticky toffee pudding too. There are cosy bedrooms upstairs and the location is great for exploring nearby Ludlow.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Cin Cin’s loyal band of customers come for its wallet-friendly Italian cuisine, where fresh ingredients are simply cooked and natural flavours are allowed to shine. You can create a different experience every time you visit by sitting in a different place: in front of the open kitchen, at the horseshoe counter, gazing out the window onto the street or in the calmer rear room. Wherever you choose, the terrific homemade pasta is a must – such as strozzapretti with wild mushrooms, pickled shallots and parmesan. An all-Italian wine list completes the picture.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. The epitome of a neighbourhood restaurant, COR is imbued with an air of contagious positivity that is a perfect fit for this buzzy area of Bristol. Its look is somewhere between a Mediterranean restaurant and a tapas bar, with some counter dining and shelves bursting with cookery books and wine. The dishes take on a similarly Mediterranean influence, as evidenced by the option of boquerones or burrata to kick things off. Save some room for pudding, because the crème caramel is a real treat.

Bib Gourmand • Sharing, European. The spirit of San Sebastián is strong at this playfully named restaurant that fuses together a pintxos bar and a simply styled restaurant. The non-bookable bar area is a brilliant spot if you want to drop in for a cocktail and some snacks, but the main restaurant offers a more extensive menu of the kitchen’s terrific Spain-meets-Cornwall cooking. The region’s produce is put to brilliant use in clean, flavoursome dishes like super-fresh mackerel with Aral Farm beetroot. To finish, the crema Catalana is a must. A well-compiled wine list and wide cocktail selection add to the joy.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. A modest-looking place from outside, Dastaan is a restaurant run with true heart and soul. Its reward is a dining room consistently packed with happy diners, joining together to create an electric atmosphere – and while its popularity may seem like it could cause an issue for the service team, they make it run it like clockwork. The menu presents great value for money and takes North India as its main inspiration, with each dish delivering many layers of flavour thanks to the expert spicing. The desserts are a joy, too, be that the homemade kulfi or the gulab jamun.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. The 'Deane' is Belfast's renowned culinary champion Michael Deane; the 'Queens' is Queen's University Belfast, which provides a great backdrop for this bustling brasserie and its large covered terrace. The Mibrasa charcoal grill is a feature across the extensive selection of refined, good value dishes, with produce like Mourne lamb rump getting the chargrilled treatment. The kitchen's ability to finely execute classic dishes is exemplified by the terrific desserts, from panna cotta to a freshly baked jam and coconut sponge.

Bib Gourmand • Innovative. There’s plenty of originality on offer in the selection of small plates at this simple yet admirably inventive bistro. The menu adopts a global approach and wide-ranging influences, but nothing feels borrowed or copied from elsewhere with such uniquely put-together dishes – if it's on the menu, don't miss the Marmite-glazed ox tongue crumpet. A rustic interior and quirkily shaped dining room combine with the blackboard menus to give the place an intimate, welcoming feel, that is only enhanced by the knowledgeable and personable service team.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Occupying the site where its neighbours Imad’s Syrian Kitchen and Darjeeling Express both started out, Donia is a hugely likeable Filipino restaurant that’ll have you googling flights to Manila before you know it. The young, Filipino-born owner grew up in the UK so expect to see plenty of homegrown produce along with those sweet and sour flavours. Crisp adobo mushroom croquetas are a must, as are the succulent chicken Inasal and the lechon (suckling pig) served with a lovely liver and peppercorn sauce. Bring friends, ignore the slightly testing acoustics and share the love.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Owners Johnny and Laura Greenall were sad to see the hub of their local village shut its doors, so in 2012 they bought it, smartened it up and reopened it as a stylish dining pub – and it’s been a hit ever since. It’s an attractive place with a delightful terrace and a neighbouring red-brick barn which houses luxurious bedrooms that look out over the fields. The gutsy, keenly priced cooking routinely shows the kitchen's deft skills, from the subtle spicing of a café de Paris butter to the luscious filling of a classic custard tart.

Bib Gourmand • European Contemporary. ‘I eat’ is a smart, buzzing and well-run brasserie in the heart of the city, with rustic-meets-faux-industrial styling and seats at the long kitchen counter for those who want to get in on the action. The great value sharing dishes take an international outlook, with traditional Spanish tapas getting a good showing – from pan con tomate to pil pil prawns – and the Bertha oven used for dishes like hanger steak with chimichurri. Don't over-order, as you'll need to save room for the terrific orange, almond and olive oil sponge.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish. ‘The Black Cat’ is a buzzing tapas restaurant split over three levels: the ground floor is home to the bar and outdoor tables in the pedestrianised street; the first floor boasts great counter seats in front of the open kitchen; and the top floor includes a fabulous roof terrace that’s ideal for private events. The cooking is as enjoyable as the atmosphere, offering great value across the wide selection of recognisable Spanish dishes, including meats from the Josper grill. The chefs certainly know their way round a classical dessert too – so save room for the crèma catalana.

Bib Gourmand • Modern French, Alsatian. Bright, modish and hugely enjoyable, Elsa is a spot-on bistro driven by the passion of its team. Located on Fitzrovia’s ever-popular Charlotte Street, it’s a lovely neighbourhood restaurant that just so happens to be in the heart of the city. Sit in the narrow front area if you like to be on-view, or the spacious, more peaceful room to the rear. The cooking is stripped-back but full of flavour, with an Alsatian backbone to the menu. Look out for the seasonal terrine and, when available, the baeckeoffe to share. Owner Solynka Dumas leads the warm, chatty service which provides genuine hospitality.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna provides the inspiration behind this classic osteria set within a former bank in the centre of town. The daily changing menu is chalked on the door of the old vault, which now houses the wines, and from the tiny kitchen comes forth flavoursome and generously priced dishes that you feel are doing you good. There’s a daily offal dish and the pasta is made in-house.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. From the people behind the Gunpowder restaurants comes this neighbourhood spot specialising in cuisines from across Punjab and Northwest India. Expect plenty of biryani and kebabs on a menu that’s so appealing, the hardest decision is choosing what not to order. If you're stuck, the butter chicken is a house speciality and you'd be a fool to overlook the terrific 'King Prawns Kadhai Masala' – a prime demonstration of the kitchen's skill with flavours. There is a loose disco theme and a cool vintage vibe, thanks largely to the fantastic jukebox and a photo booth.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. While this friendly neighbourhood restaurant is housed in a traditional stone building, its interior is contrastingly modern, with closely-set, dark wood tables looking onto an open-plan kitchen with a wood-burning oven. The menu of well-priced sharing plates may have a Spanish heart – from the boquerones to the croquetas – but also offers the opportunity to go on a global culinary journey. Start in Mexico with the generously topped tacos, fly over to Vietnam for the bánh mì prawn toast, then end up back in Blighty for sticky toffee pudding. Whatever you choose, it will burst with colour and flavour.

Bib Gourmand • British Contemporary. With its open kitchen, sharing plates, faux-industrial design and bounty of natural wines, there's something incredibly current about Erst. It's truly a restaurant for our times, but cooking like this would be a joy in any era. The underlying themes across the menu are great value and bright, punchy flavours; make sure you start with one of the freshly charred flatbreads, which might come topped with sweet Vesuvio tomatoes. The cuttlefish risotto is terrific too, offering impressive depth of flavour. The friendly team provide natural, attentive service.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. It’s easy to understand why Farang is so popular; it’s an immensely likeable restaurant serving generous and heartwarming recipes from all regions of Thailand – and even with overly eager ordering, you finish up with a bill that isn’t too overwhelming. Each dish, be it the salted turmeric prawns or the whole sea bass with raspberry nahm jim, showcases the hallmarks of Thai cuisine: freshness, vibrancy and a lovely balance of the sweet and the sour. The ‘Feasting’ menus are great for groups, and you’ll find it hard to resist buying some of their homemade produce on the way out too.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. From the genuine, professional service to the array of quality seafood, there is a lot to love about this smart restaurant decorated with a wicker shoal hanging from the ceiling and photos of fishermen on the walls. Fabulous produce, much of it Scottish, powers dishes that accentuate the flavours of their core ingredient with a few well-judged, finely made accompaniments – such as Shetland halibut accompanied by slow roasted tomatoes and salsa verde. As always with the best seafood restaurants, keep an eye on the specials board for more fresh delights.

Bib Gourmand • Malaysian. In the West End suburb of Partick, this brightly painted restaurant offers an enjoyable slice of Southeast Asian cuisine. One side is a former butcher’s shop with the original glazed tiles on the walls, whilst the other is more rustic with colourful pot plants dotted around. Grab one of the booths if you can and start with a cocktail, then dive right into the menu of vibrantly flavoured dishes that take inspiration from Malaysia, Thailand and beyond. Lively, delicious and great value, GaGa has all the ingredients for a fun night out.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British, Mediterranean Cuisine. The Essex outpost of the Galvin empire is this big, busy pub, where there’s always something going on, from live music evenings to special events. The friendly team offer a warm welcome and the original 14th-century building provides all the rustic charm you’d expect, while a modern barn extension and a charming riverside garden complete the picture. The extensive menu offers an appealing mix of classic British and Mediterranean influenced dishes which are big on flavour, and the 'Bib Gourmand' menu is a steal.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. Chef and TV personality Ravneet Gill is behind this smart neighbourhood bistro, along with her chef husband Mattie Taiano – after whose late mother the restaurant is named. The menu has a meaty basis, with a daily blackboard of prime cuts being the star of the show. Everything is well-priced, prepared with care and swaps fuss for flavour, such as well-judged onglet with a creamy peppercorn sauce. The whole team bring personality and infectious enthusiasm to their work, helping to make a visit here such a lovely experience.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A former bank is now this bright and airy restaurant where plenty of natural light floods in through the large windows. There's an understated elegance to the décor and the counter is the place to sit if you want to discuss the concise yet quality wine list with the enthusiastic team. The appealingly varied cooking offers sharing plates that draw inspiration from multiple sources but are rooted in the British larder. The fish 'gilda' snack is a prime example, offering plenty of flavour in the harmonious combination of trout, quail egg and smoked haddock.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. There’s so much going for this former pub which has been transformed into a wine bar and restaurant with a young, on-trend vibe. The place is packed with East London’s coolest diners, many of them at shared tables and all delighting in a concise menu based around high-quality, seasonal British produce. The treacle tart makes for a wonderful end to the meal – and if your sweet tooth is still not satisfied, the same people run The Dreamery ice cream shop across the road. The eclectic wine list specialises in natural options, which the affable and knowledgeable team will happily guide you through.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. While there are now Gunpowders in multiple London locations, it's this small, sweetly run spot that started it all. Unassuming from the outside, it's a loud, buzzing place once you're in, sporting just 10 tightly packed tables – all filled with contented diners. The restaurant's name is a reference to the chef’s daily-made spice mix and his menu is influenced by old family recipes. Among the fresh and original small plates, which take inspiration from across the Indian regions, the Chettinad pulled duck is a stand-out, while the venison and vermicelli doughnut is a must to start.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. The chef’s passionate desire to make this 300 year old pub the most seasonal in Wales is laudable. Menus change twice daily and produce is from his 3 acre allotment and family farms – and he also hunts and forages. The cooking is unfussy yet dishes are absolutely bursting with flavour; if you get a chance, don’t miss the buttermilk pudding. A great value 'Saver' menu is available for lunch Thursday to Saturday and early evening on Wednesday and Thursday.

Bib Gourmand • British Contemporary. Run by the same team as The Hare & Hounds in Aberthin, this large neighbourhood pub is the kind of place that quickly becomes your favourite haunt. Simple and rustic in décor, the focus is on the eminently satisfying cooking, which has a strong nose-to-tail ethos resulting in dishes like confit pork belly with homemade black pudding and crispy ham hock. The menu of great value small plates changes daily, while pre-ordering the tasting option will ensure you sample the full range of the kitchen’s talents.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. What started life as a pop-up in 2020 is now a permanent spot in the heart of the city, owned and run by three friends who also operate wine bar Flawd, seafood and cocktail spot Bar Shrimp, and a market garden in the Cheshire countryside. The latter provides much of the top-quality produce found on the menu, in dishes that are designed for sharing and packed with flavour. Sit at the large counter to see the chefs putting care and pride into every dish, be it cheddar tart with mustard leaf or Scottish halibut with purple sprouting broccoli. The whole team, led by the owners, are charming and cheery.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Neil and Louise Hitchen have been working in restaurants around the world together for 20 years, with their current venture set inside this pretty stone barn. There’s a rustic quality to the décor, which pairs nicely with the lovely warm welcome given by natural host Louise and her bright young team. Neil heads up the kitchen, producing well-priced, seasonal dishes that are so appealing you might struggle to choose – go for the banana panna cotta to finish and you won’t be disappointed. The wine list is as wallet-friendly as the food.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine. Bright colours, greenery and local art decorate this spacious, upbeat restaurant with a semi-industrial touch. The cooking focuses on semi-rustic versions of British and Mediterranean dishes, packing in plenty of punchy flavours and top-quality produce – such as in the terrific fish casserole. As an added bonus, it all comes with a sensible price tag – especially considering the prime city centre location. The friendly team make the whole experience enjoyable, from the warm welcome to the fond farewell.

Bib Gourmand • South Indian, Sri Lankan. There may now be branches of Hoppers dotted across London, but this fun little Soho spot is where the journey started – and it remains a delight. The bustling atmosphere is well-suited to a speedy, low-fuss meal, while the wallet-friendly dishes are inspired by the street food of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu. The 'short eats' like mutton roll with chilli ketchup are packed with flavour, as are the karis, but you can't leave without trying the signature 'hopper': a bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice and coconut. The 'Hoppers Experience' is a great way to go for the indecisive.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. Offering a lovely overall package that includes bedrooms and a warming atmosphere, this cosy pub makes a perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds. The 19th-century building has been renovated into a fine-looking property, with a bar area where every local and their dog can have a relaxing drink. The cooking is generous in both size and flavour, with a roll-call of pub classics and stand-out desserts like the terrific apple and walnut crumble. Several themed evenings offer particularly great value for money, be it ‘pie night’ or ‘steak and a pint’.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. Hidden in the basement of the old city law courts and jail is this friendly, long-standing restaurant which comes with a vaulted ceiling, colourful tiling and ornate fretwork. The menu is just as interesting, living up to its name with dishes that incorporate elements from yuzu to dukkah alongside the firmly Mediterranean base. Around four dishes per person is about right, with the 'gambas a la plancha' well worth an order. The ‘Express’ menu available on midweek early evenings represents great value.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. Affable Chef-Owner Imad was a restaurateur in Damascus before fleeing and settling in London, and his desire to provide and nourish is the motivating force behind his very likeable restaurant. Its move in 2023 to bigger premises at the top of Kingly Court was testament to its popularity. The appealing, great value menu focuses on Middle Eastern flavours; expect generous sharing dishes and plenty of lamb – the slow-cooked shoulder is particularly good, as is the hummus and falafel. The 'Express' weekday lunch is a steal.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Smart, stylish and boasting an immaculate open kitchen, this charmingly run Indian restaurant – whose name means “let there be victory” in Hindi – is a younger sibling to Cheltenham institutions Prithvi and Bhoomi Kitchen. There is a more distinct street food influence here, with the well-priced menu offering sharing plates that arrive when they’re ready. Look out for the coal-roasted dishes, including unmissable lamb chops, and the regularly changing house biryani. The desserts don’t let the side down either, with the gulab jamun a particular treat.

Bib Gourmand • Lyonnaise, French. Chef Claude Bosi returns to his Lyonnaise roots with this buzzy ‘bouchon’, where the tables are tightly packed and the walls are adorned with colourful posters. The menu could scarcely be more French if it was emblazoned with the tricolore: vol-au-vent, andouillete, frog’s legs… take your pick. It’s all executed with great skill and packs in plenty of flavour, while the service is delivered with a certain ‘bonne humeur’. The set menu is remarkably good value, as is the 'plat du jour', and the well-chosen wine list contains some notable French producers. There's another, larger branch in Marylebone.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. A few streets from the Botanical Gardens is this fun, buzzy basement restaurant situated in a former garage dating back to the 1900s. Sister to Ox and Finch, it has a similar ethos of laid-back dining and affordable pricing, but here the cooking comes with a distinctly Southeast Asian flavour. The chefs blend sweet and spicy elements with great skill, in colourful sharing plates ranging from corn ribs to stir-fried ox tongue so satisfying you'll be considering a second helping. Another branch is located in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British, Scottish. Situated in a magical, highly remote location on Scotland's west coast, this roadside inn is a welcoming place from the moment you enter, with the team exuding a genuine warmth and hospitality. Choose between the "Chef's Menu" and the great value "Bib Gourmand Menu", both of which display the chefs' pride in their local produce, including plenty from the nearby Kilberry Estate. The cooking is classic at its core, avoiding unnecessary gimmicks in favour of honest, satisfying dishes. Stay overnight to see more of the beautiful surroundings.

Bib Gourmand • Thai, South East Asian. There’s an obvious passion to the whole team at this lively little restaurant that offers fiery, authentic Thai dishes. Clay pots, woks and grills all feature on a well-priced menu that also takes its influences from Laos, Myanmar and Yunnan. Dishes showcase the skill of the chefs via bright, fresh flavours and the ability to pack in plenty of spice without losing the natural flavours of the ingredients. They don't take bookings, so get here early to avoid disappointment, and try to bag a seat at the ground-floor counter if you like to watch the chefs at work.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. The cuisine of southern Thailand provides the inspiration for this bustling restaurant in the equally bustling Borough Market. It’s an extremely popular place and rightly so, with attractive pricing, efficient service and downright delicious cooking. The menu lends itself to sharing and each dish is packed with flavour, including the terrific grilled mussel skewers and some lip-tingling curries. If you can’t decide, opt for the set menu to share – which is also available in a vegan form.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Kricket now boasts four branches across London, but this Soho spot was its original permanent home after its pop-up origins. The counter in front of the open kitchen dominates the room and is huge fun, although the seating downstairs has something of a cool nighttime vibe. The generously priced menu leans towards India’s more southerly states in authentic dishes that burst with flavour. Highlights to look out for include Goan sausage croquettes, Keralan fried chicken with a delicious curry leaf mayo, and succulent Karnatakan pork neck.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Enter into this railway-arch restaurant in Peckham Rye and you could convince yourself you’ve been transported to Bangkok. A pair of friends have turned their years of experience in Thai restaurants into an authentic slice of the country, from the bustling atmosphere to fresh, vibrant dishes like fried chicken ‘gai prik’. The chefs don’t hold back on the spice, yet their strong sense of balance ensures the central ingredients are never overwhelmed. Meat-free diners will be particularly delighted that every dish on the menu is matched by a vegetarian equivalent.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. Head through the arch of Enfield Chambers and you'll be transported to this uber-cool setting. The Japanese cooking revolves around small plates and skewers, cooked over a charcoal grill with consummate skill. Bright, authentic and generous, each dish is a joy to eat and sensibly priced too. If you're coming for lunch, get here early as they don't take bookings and the lunchtime offer is phenomenally good value. Efficient service, a dynamic atmosphere and a courtyard terrace all add to the already considerable appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Tiny and tucked-away on Peckham’s bustling Rye Lane, Lai Rai is a hidden gem of a restaurant. Friendly, affordable and with knockout Vietnamese cooking, it’s the kind of place you leave with a spring in your step. The food is packed with bold flavours and executed with real skill, moving from bánh mì and coffee in the day to a more elaborate menu in the evening. Make sure you start with the brilliant prawn lollies, as no matter how many you order, you’ll still be wanting more. The genial, enthusiastic team just want you to have a good time – and you will!

Bib Gourmand • Italian. An unpretentious Italian restaurant in one of the converted Shad Thames warehouses; the unfussy service suits the style of the place. The seasonally influenced menu uses British produce, with the in-house pasta a particular highlight; dishes are relatively simple but flavours are bold and prices, appealing.

Bib Gourmand • French. The two garçons in question are Robert Reid and JC Slowik, both stalwarts of the London restaurant scene, and their experience is here to see in every element of this immensely likeable French bistro, which is far bigger than their previous place and thus better for coping with demand. Expect all the classics to be found on the menu or blackboard, whether that’s duck confit or escargots; the baba au rhum is not to be missed and the all-French wine list is appealing priced.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Bristol's pasta-lovers are really being spoilt with this rustic bistro run by a charming and knowledgeable team. The pasta itself is freshly made in house each morning and then hung out in the window to dry, before being fashioned into bright, flavour-packed dishes. The options are often vegetable-centric, but do look out for the utterly delicious shellfish spaghetti. For dessert, it's all about the Italian classics, including a generously portioned pistachio tiramisu that will end your visit on a high. The set lunch menu is quite the bargain.

Bib Gourmand • Malaysian. ‘Malaysian Heat + Juicy Wines’ is the strapline of Vanessa Fernandes and Abby Lee’s restaurant – that means exhilarating dishes inspired by Abby's family recipes, alongside natural wines. Start with the terrific '100+ Sour' cocktail and then order plenty of the delicious food to share. While the menu changes frequently, expect eminently satisfying dishes like Otak-Otak prawn toast or squid stuffed with pork belly mince – and don’t ignore the Kerabu section. There's a great atmosphere around the room and there are also a few seats on a semi-covered terrace at the back.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Certain restaurants make you feel like you’ve made the right decision as soon as you walk in the door – and manteca is one of them. It’s always busy, always full of life and always run with a calm confidence that allows everyone to relax. The Italian menu is also something that’ll always excite; its dishes are designed for sharing and every one of them comes with flavour turned up to the max, whether it’s the whole wood-roasted John Dory, the ’nduja steamed mussels, or the malloreddus with pork and fennel ragu. Be sure to check out their in-house pasta workshop and their salumeria.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Whilst only a short stroll away from Aberdeen’s ‘Granite Mile’ main street, there is a real neighbourhood feel to this brightly painted restaurant and bottle shop. The concise wine list is 100% Italian, while the cooking stretches a little beyond the country’s borders for a menu of attractively priced sharing plates. Whether it’s focaccia with white bean hummus, meaty mackerel with fennel or the playfully named ‘Mara-ncini’, the dishes deliver hearty flavours and well-judged combinations in abundance. A friendly, knowledgeable team add to the appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. As a sister restaurant to Ox and Finch and Ka Pao, you can probably guess what you’re getting with Margo: a bustling, efficiently run restaurant that’s deservedly popular thanks to its great buzz and flavour-packed, generously priced dishes. It’s a cavernous place spread over two floors, with a semi-industrial feel and its lively atmosphere enhanced by the open kitchen. The sharing plates are a satisfying synthesis of Mediterranean cooking and Scottish produce, borne out in dishes like red prawn agnolotti and ham hough croquettes. Below, you’ll find Sebb’s – a cocktail bar with wood-fired grilling.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The former Guardian Assurance Building makes a charming spot for a restaurant, thanks to its characterful interiors with high ceilings, parquet flooring and panelled walls. The rustic look is a perfect fit for this osteria-cum-wine-bar, where the concise menu of classic Italian dishes adheres to the old adage that 'less is more' – straightforward options like tagliolini with Devon crab, tomato and almond deliver on flavour with just a few ingredients. If you needed more reasons to visit, the service is confident and personable, and it all comes with an appealing price tag.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. There’s always a certain joyfulness to family owned and run restaurants – and Miga is truly a family affair, with dad running things in the open kitchen and the younger generation looking after guests in the bright, airy room. If you want to find out more about them, check out the family history as described on the wall outside. ‘A modern take on Korean cuisine’ is their tagline and this is borne out by fresh-tasting dishes like delicious soy-braised short ribs – already a fans’ favourite – and spicy noodles with crispy beef jeon. The generous prices, especially at lunch, allow for enthusiastic ordering – which you won’t regret.

Bib Gourmand • French. How lucky are the residents of Kew? Not only do they have the world-famous gardens on their doorstep, but they’re also the beneficiaries of this terrific little restaurant. Simple, homely and French to its core, this is the epitome of a neighbourhood bistro. The cooking is uncomplicated, hearty fare; bookend your meal with the homemade bread and the pear tarte Tatin, which is well worth the 20-minute wait. Come in the day for the exceptionally well-priced lunch menu, where the dishes are just as delicious and generous.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. Set in a converted former bank, Morchella sports a small but well-stocked wine bar to one side, offering largely natural and biodynamic options that the wine list describes as either ‘Classic’, ‘Coastal’ or ‘Funky’. On the food side of things, the menu has a Mediterranean slant and is designed for sharing – although if the spaghetti alle vongole is available, you’ll be loath to give any up. Service is bright and breezy, while the great value lunch menu means you can dine without breaking the bank, so to speak.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Its full name, ‘mrDeanes Bistro, Bar and Social’, paints a perfect picture of this spacious addition to Michael Deane’s ever-evolving Belfast empire. Grab a cocktail at the bar before taking your seat in a restaurant that’s bursting with vitality. The eminently appealing menu offers well-executed takes on dishes from all over the world, be it Gaeng Phed red curry or ‘entrecôte au poivre’. There's a palpable generosity to the place too, with the food and wine both offering great value for money.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Hidden away in the centre of town is this compact little restaurant where the service is warm and genuine, and a happy buzz fills the air. Snacks are served in the bar downstairs, while the upstairs is home to the full à la carte of excellent value dishes. Boldly flavoured elements like confit garlic pepperonata enliven the unfussy cooking, whose visual simplicity belies its delicious intensity. Be sure to check out the daily specials on the blackboard and, for dessert, don’t miss the chocolate délice.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Asian Influences. The name (almost) says it all here: it is indeed an endearing neighbourhood bistro, but Norman is not in fact the owner – instead, it’s the name of both the owner’s dog and his grandfather. Rustic décor adds to the welcoming feel, as do the polite, helpful service team. The sharing plates offer great value and have a playful streak, as evidenced by the pig's cheek glazed in Henderson's Relish, the cult condiment from nearby Sheffield. The wine list is concise but, refreshingly, it’s all available by the glass – and the local ales are understandably popular.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. In the busy months you might have to queue at this simple, trendy boat house conversion – but it’s well worth the wait. The menu is constantly changing as it’s informed by the freshest catch from nearby waters, with the array of seafood allowed to shine with a delicious purity thanks to the simplicity of the preparations. Fowey oysters are often a favourite, as is the signature brown crab rarebit. Owner Ethan cooks on his own and there’s an endearingly rustic, no-nonsense feel to the place.

Bib Gourmand • Asian Influences, Modern Cuisine. Following the success of aizle, Stuart Ralston took inspiration for his next restaurant from time spent in New York, naming this small plates spot after his NYC roommate, Bob Noto. It’s been a hit ever since, offering well-conceived dishes at sensible prices that are ideal for sharing. The culinary influences span the globe, with a particular focus on a range of Asian cuisines, be that through duck bao buns or a luscious chocolate and miso dessert.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Middle Eastern. The appealing, Eastern Mediterranean-influenced menu at Chef-Owner Oded Oren’s bustling little bistro is made up of enticing sharing plates, with many ingredients cooked over charcoal, such as lamb loin, succulent chicken skewer and hispi cabbage with muhammara. Start with the delicious stone-baked flatbread and then around five dishes between two should suffice. The prices are kept fair and that includes the well-made cocktails, while the service team are delightful. There’s lots of fun to be had here.

Bib Gourmand • Sharing. If you were to ask Chef Zak Hitchman what kind of food he cooks, you may not get a clear answer, such is the variety of influences that he skilfully adopts. That’s borne out here in a playful, constantly changing menu served inside this small, modish bistro with bright orange walls. If there’s anything on the menu involving the hot and sour crab sauce, don’t hesitate in ordering it, as it’s the perfect encapsulation of the kitchen’s understanding of flavour. Everything, including the wines, comes with an appealing price tag and the friendly service is the icing on the cake.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. Now in its second decade, this hugely likeable bistro is becoming something of a Glasgow institution – the first in a small group of restaurants offering brilliant value and a buzzing atmosphere. After a refurbishment in early 2025, it's got a fresh new look and menu, but the ethos remains: Mediterranean dishes that are ideal for sharing, showcasing skilful use of simple ingredients so that their flavours really shine through – such as cod cheeks with chorizo, tomato and morcilla. The attentive service team run the place like a well-oiled machine.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. It's not hard to see why this perennially popular pasta spot is so busy. The chefs make their pasta fresh every morning ready for a new wave of hungry customers to enjoy, then cook it with admirable precision and add a range of mouth-watering accompaniments – whether that be cavolo nero with the the cavatelli or regional specialities like a delicious Tuscan gorgonzola sauce with stacci. Don't forget the equally impressive tarts for dessert, too. Arrive in plenty of time to scan the QR code and join the virtual queue, then have a wander round the neighbouring Borough Market.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, South American. A pink neon sign beckons you into this wonderful little neighbourhood restaurant that's all about small plates and big flavours. The style of the food is described as ‘spice driven’ and draws on multiple global cuisines across the selection of affordable dishes, be that scallops with ancho chilli butter or Keralan fried chicken. The décor is simple and understated, but the cooking is bold and interesting, with an appropriate degree of care taken in the kitchen. Kick your evening off with a colourful cocktail, and make sure to end it with a delicious dessert.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. The flavours of Jerusalem have found a home in the heart of London’s theatreland, thanks to this stylish and deservedly popular restaurant. A zinc kitchen counter runs back to an intimate, wood-panelled dining room, which is filled with an almighty bustle. Like the atmosphere, the cooking is inviting and invigorating, with the good value dishes including fabulous fresh breads, superior dips and a range of produce cooked over fire.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. This timbered 14th-century inn offers all you could want in a pub: it’s in a pretty little village; it’s got a lovely garden and terrace; there are cosy bedrooms; the friendly staff offer a warm welcome; and, of course, the food is terrific. Choose between the tasting menu, à la carte and, for bargain hunters, the brilliantly affordable set lunch. Throughout, there is skilled cooking on display, as with the opening snack of a top-notch Scotch egg with sauerkraut or the roasted halibut with saffron sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Being hidden down an alleyway and up some stairs in the centre of Nottingham, you’ll need to follow your map closely to find this rustic restaurant in a lovely period building – think exposed brickwork, timbers and dried flowers hanging on the wall. Cooking-wise it’s all about small plates, with three to four per person about right; these dishes show off recognisable flavour combinations executed with aplomb, like ham fritters with the eponymous piccalilli. The wine list is concise but carefully curated, with quality choices at a fair price.

Bib Gourmand • Creole, Cajun. A unique and very colourful pub named after a small city in Louisiana and with a menu centred around Creole and Cajun traditions. Dishes like gumbo with okra, blackened chicken, and crawfish with corn and potatoes are carefully cooked and packed with flavour. Big Easy style cocktails add to the fun.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. With an open kitchen and electric pop blaring, there's a buzzy, vintage vibe at this relaxed, homely spot in the Arcade Food Hall. Chef Luke Farrell grows many of the Southeast Asian ingredients in a tropical greenhouse in Dorset, which are then deftly used to create wonderfully authentic, punchy Southern Thai curries. Start with Miang Phuket (coconut and betel leaf wraps), then go for a curry – perhaps a hearty Massaman (beef shoulder) – or, if you're feeling adventurous, the fiery Khua Kling Muu (dry wok fried pork).

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine. A striped canopy strung with fairy lights beckons you into this delightful bottle shop and bistro where you can feel the joy and passion of the team coursing through their work. A concise, regularly changing à la carte is chalked up on the blackboard – and it makes great use of ingredients from the team’s own smallholding. With produce and cooking this good, along with sensible pricing, every penny spent brings with it bucketloads of flavour. Straightforward is the name of the game, with the likes of homemade pasta and a terrific tarte Tatin on offer.

Bib Gourmand • Indian Vegetarian. Set over two floors of a former pub, this colourfully decorated, family-run restaurant offers interesting, original Indian vegetarian cooking inspired by the owners' Gujarati heritage. After a warm welcome from the team, you can choose between set sharing menus, a full tasting experience or picking a few dishes from the extensive à la carte. Dishes such as the 'Chole' chickpea curry are substantial in both size and flavour and the spicing is well-judged. The bread selection stands out, with excellent naan and rotli.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. There's something so appealing about the simplicity of a restaurant like Primeur. A proper neighbourhood operation, it comes with stripped-back décor, a handwritten blackboard menu and a relaxed, bustling atmosphere. Diners can sit around large communal tables or up at the counters around the edges of the room. The cooking, for its part, avoids overcomplication and puts the ingredients first, as evidenced by grilled pork chop with roquefort butter. Ensure you save room for dessert, too, especially if the textbook custard tart is on the menu.

Bib Gourmand • French. ‘A little piece of France in Wanstead’ is the tagline at this busy and welcoming neighbourhood bistro – and it certainly delivers on the promise. The extensive menu is a roll-call of classic French dishes from escargots and soupe à l’oignon to coq au vin and steak frites. They prove to be impressively executed too, providing satisfying flavours at fair prices. A startlingly good value 'prix fixe' is available throughout the day Tuesday to Thursday and for lunch only on Friday and Saturday.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish. Standing outside this whitewashed Georgian townhouse, you’re in a Hampshire market town; step inside and you’re in the heart of Spain. Barcelona-born Andres Alemany has brought all the authentic flavours of his homeland to the UK, along with a terrific buzz that’s entirely befitting of a popular tapas bar. The classics like boquerones and tortillas are executed with great skill and offered at a sensible price, while the blackboard menu of wood-fired specials allow you to push the boat out a bit. A good choice of Spanish wines serves to enhance the experience.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Enter via the glass door between the shop fronts and head up to this bright, sleek Indian restaurant where flashes of purple ensure it lives up to its name. Abstract murals, exposed brick walls and blonde wood chairs complete the look. The interesting menu showcases recognisable dishes like lamb rogan josh, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for the chef's signature tiffin sea bass too. Throughout, the subtle spicing and quality produce ensure layer after layer of wonderful flavour comes through in each bite. Warm, welcoming service is the chutney on the poppadom, so to speak.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Traditional British. You'll struggle to find a lovelier all-round experience than having lunch at Pythouse Kitchen Garden. Set inside a red-brick former potting shed within a Victorian walled garden, it's a gorgeous setting with elegance and country charm to spare. The cooking is a joy too, with great value to be had in the generous fixed-price offering built around cooking over fire. The ingredients, many from the garden itself, are of real quality and used to brilliant effect – like the pickled gooseberry ketchup offsetting rich game sausage.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern, Mediterranean Cuisine. This deliciously different restaurant sits within a rustic 17C inn in the heart of Glastonbury, and comes with numerous seating areas, including a cosy courtyard for sunny days. Menus showcase West Country produce and the resulting Middle Eastern and Mediterranean small plates burst with colour and flavour. Grab a friend, go for the chef’s selection entitled the ‘Queen’s Feast’ and accompany it with the ‘sharing ciders’.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Like most of the restaurants occupying the reclaimed shipping containers in Wapping Wharf, this authentic Italian eatery is cool, compact and totally irresistible. Coming from the same team as nearby COR, what it lacks in size it makes up for in flavour, with each simply prepared dish utilising the well-sourced seasonal ingredients to maximum effect. The menu’s designed for sharing and the prices are generous, so order in abundance and revel in everything from the moreish garlic and rosemary focaccia to the fish and meat cooked over fire. Finish with their creative take on tiramisu.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Asian Influences. It may look like a small terraced house from the outside, but this relaxed and popular part of the Rick Stein stable is a surprisingly spacious, nautically themed bistro with bright Cornish artwork on the walls and a compact enclosed terrace to the rear. The concise menu is largely inspired by Rick's travels around various parts of Asia combined with, of course, Cornish seafood. So you can expect the likes of Thai fishcakes, grilled miso salmon and Pondicherry cod curry. The service is cheery, while simply furnished yet comfortable bedrooms are available.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. After generating a fair amount of buzz with their pop-ups, warm and welcoming couple Ash and Erin have found a permanent home in this Birmingham suburb. Erin leads the friendly service, while Ash proudly delivers dishes from behind a kitchen counter. Her cooking is characterised by originality and bold hits of flavour, occasionally drawing on influences from her native South Africa, as well as Asian flavours ranging from tom yum to furikake. Choose between two lengths of set menu, the shorter one coming with the more wallet-friendly price tag.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This busy, welcoming little restaurant occupies five first-floor shipping containers on Wapping Wharf, a thriving neighbourhood with an array of top eateries. Vegetables lead the way here, with the majority of dishes being vegetarian and utilising the best produce from small local suppliers in simple yet flavour-packed sharing plates. Ingredients from carrots to hispi cabbage are elevated with well-balanced and wholly satisfying flavour combinations. There’s a terrific buzz and the service team run their deservedly popular restaurant admirably smoothly.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian, Modern Cuisine. The views of Wells Cathedral alone are enough to attract anyone here, but add in an appealing veg-led menu of small plates, great prices and eager-to-please service, and you have a restaurant we’d all like to have on our doorstep. The chefs let the ingredients shine, showing just what wonderful flavours humble vegetables can achieve. While you decide what to order, ask for the fried cheese choux puffs – a smooth, utterly delicious treat.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. A converted sardine factory on the quayside plays host to this laid-back and admirably well-run restaurant which affords views across the harbour to East Looe. The extensive menu champions Cornish seafood across a range of flavourful, well-priced dishes that have been prepared with evident care. The cooking is appealingly straightforward and will likely include day-boat fish with a simple garnish, such as brown shrimp Grenobloise sauce. Don't forget to try the fabulous sardines too, of course, and finish with the soft serve ice cream.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Housed inside a former boat shed on the harbour wall, Sargasso really does have the perfect seaside location. Watch the tide come in as you sit back and enjoy the seasonally changing menu, which – just like sister restaurant Brawn in London – puts quality produce front and centre. In this case, that means a bounty of delicious fresh seafood, offering clean, powerful flavours in each smartly pared-back dish. The menu is designed for sharing, allowing you to try as much as possible, while the wine list leans towards natural and biodynamic options.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Dating all the way back to 1757, this striking former mill looks like it's been taken off the front of a Norfolk picture postcard. Lovingly restored by sisters Siobhan and Caitriona Peyton, it's now a chic dining pub with contemporary bedrooms and a riverside terrace. The cooking doesn't reinvent the wheel, but instead offers well-judged, flavoursome dishes like green gazpacho with Cromer crab. Ensure you save some room for dessert, especially if the terrific Norfolk pear and hazelnut tart is on the menu.

Bib Gourmand • World Cuisine. When a Glasgow restaurant belongs to the same stable as Ox and Finch, Ka Pao and Margo, you know you’re in for a treat. Sebb’s sits underneath the latter, in a vaulted red-brick basement that’s perfect for a party. The menu happily ignores international borders, offering up everything from Turkish lahmacun to Brazilian-style picanha steak, via tandoori trout and jerk-spiced pork belly. Each one bursts with flavour and generosity thanks to the skill of the chefs. Cocktails are a feature too, with an intriguing and enticing list including the likes of a miso and malt Old Fashioned.

Bib Gourmand • African. Colourful, unfussy and joyous, there is so much to love about this great little restaurant decorated with warm hues and black-and-white photographs depicting scenes from West Africa, setting the stage perfectly for Maria Bradford’s generous, vibrantly flavoured food. A self-taught chef from Sierra Leone, she pulls inspiration from her home country and beyond for dishes such as meltingly tender beef short rib in a delicious groundnut and coconut sauce. The tasting menu is great for hungry diners, but brilliant value can be found when sharing plates from the à la carte.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Having developed a cult following in Leytonstone, this likeable Thai restaurant moved to a bigger home in Shoreditch in mid-2025, allowing many more customers the chance to experience its exuberant, fun and well-priced appeal. Sharing plates of big-flavoured, enjoyably spicy goodness are the order of the day, with top dishes on the concise menu including succulent wild ginger chicken thighs and tender smoked pork belly Panang. There’s a counter if you want to see how the food is prepared, or how the cocktails are made.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. This bright, lively restaurant is still one of the hottest tickets in town, and it's easy to see why. Located just up the road from Micklegate Bar – a 12th-century gateway to the city – its name comes from the Japanese word meaning ‘small amount’, referencing the menu's sharing-plates format. Six or seven dishes is about right between two, with each one incorporating bold, precisely balanced flavours with real skill. Indian cuisine has a palpable influence on the cooking, but so does the rest of the world – with dishes like masala monkfish and the superb hogget 'shawarma'.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. This tiny basement operation in the suburb of Stockbridge comes with dark, moody décor and impressive cooking from the get-go. The menu of rustic sharing plates pushes flavour-packed British ingredients to the fore and the dishes are pleasingly free of superfluous elements, allowing their central components to shine. A carefully curated list includes a selection of natural wines, with those available by the glass listed on the blackboard. Cheery, well-organised service adds to the experience.

Bib Gourmand • Meats and Grills, Barbecue. The Smokestak formula is simple: expertly cooked meats, wallet-friendly prices and a buoyant atmosphere – what more could you want? The beef brisket exemplifies their approach; it's a simple dish, but delivers so much flavour from the rich barbecue glaze, while the meat itself is as melting as can be, having been cooked low and slow in the smoker overnight. Cubes of crispy ox cheek with anchovy mayo are another highlight, and the whole experience is enhanced by the friendly, on-the-ball service team.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. You’ll find warmth and generosity aplenty at this family-operated Korean restaurant run with palpable pride. Some tables have their own barbecue, allowing you to cook your choice of meats right in front of you, including pork belly, short ribs and Wagyu beef, all at sensible prices. Don’t worry if you’re on a standard table though, as the bansang dishes are surefire winners, offering delicious main components such as fried chicken or grilled mackerel served with three side dishes and top-drawer kimchi. Leave room for the silky smooth matcha crème brûlée to finish.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. There is an appealingly stripped-back quality to both the food and the décor at this well-priced St. JOHN spin-off. The highly seasonal menu offers dishes that are perfect for sharing, and the cooking is as British, uncomplicated and hugely satisfying as you would expect – accompanied by suitably spartan surroundings. The brand’s nose-to-tail ethos is on show too, with options like roasted bone marrow and crispy pig’s cheek. Don’t leave without trying the baked to order madeleines.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Snugly slotted into a busy South London street, this bustling Indian restaurant comes with a wonderfully relaxed, vibrant atmosphere and dishes you’ll want to eat again and again. The concise menu keeps things simple and is all the better for it, starting with moreish onion bhajis and continuing with a knockout Thanjavur chicken curry. What makes it even better is the mightily appealing prices, meaning you can share a broad range of dishes with friends and come away without your wallet feeling too bruised.

Bib Gourmand • North African, Mediterranean Cuisine. The Barbary in Notting Hill may be newer and bigger, but this little 24-seater counter restaurant hidden away in Neal’s Yard is the original and its intimate, cosy and bustling atmosphere make it the preferred choice. The zinc-topped counter is wrapped around a robata grill and a tandoor clay oven. The smoky treatment is given to ingredients from octopus to cauliflower, while the accompanying flavours are influenced, unsurprisingly, by the former Barbary Coast – so expect the likes of dukkah, harissa and zhoug to make appearances. Knafeh is a great dessert with which to finish.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Situated in the suburbs, close to the famous folly of Blaise Castle, this simply decorated village inn serves good value, traditional British dishes cooked with a skilful, modern approach – make sure you save room for dessert! As well as quality ales and a well-chosen wine list, you'll find a pleasant rear courtyard in which to enjoy them. Personable service completes the picture.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. This much-loved 'proper' pub is named after the lane it sits on, in the most historic part of the city. Housed within a converted warehouse by the quay, the operation is split between the cosy ground-floor bar – serving snacks and over 50 different beers – and the rustic upstairs dining room. Here, the kitchen produces a consistently high quality offering of hearty, punchily flavoured dishes like haggis on toast and grilled calves liver with bacon, sage and crispy onions. Fair prices and a friendly team add to the appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Whether it's Orkney scallops or Wiltshire pheasant, there’s always an appealingly muscular quality to the cooking at this popular pub set in a smart residential street amid elegant Georgian terraces. You can choose between elaborate dishes with international flavours and touches of originality or those of a more traditional bent. Check out the blackboard specials, which could include prime rib to share, and don't miss the indulgent sticky toffee pudding if you get the chance.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. The team from Cail Bruich are behind this likeable neighbourhood spot decked out with cool modern décor and boasting a large bar – start with the well-priced house negroni or something creative from the extensive cocktail list. The cooking is led by the top-quality ingredients, be they seasonal girolles or super-fresh Loch Fyne mackerel, and the charcoal grill plays a key role in proceedings too. The best value comes via the set menu or sharing dishes from the à la carte. Knowledgeable and attentive service adds to the appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. It feels like nothing ever changes at The Cornish Arms – and that is meant in the best possible way. This traditional high-street pub continues to serve up proper pints, flavour-packed food and a joyous atmosphere. A mix of locals and tourists, drinkers and diners, are all well looked-after by the gregarious team, while the kitchen does its part with a menu of dishes that combine no-nonsense appeal with detailed and careful execution. The result is dishes like 'The BFG Trifle', where a Black Forest Gateau fuses wonderfully with a fellow staple pudding.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Brighton’s famous Lanes district plays host to this fashionable brasserie hidden inside a red-brick and flint-stone house that was one home to the city's renowned Hannington's department store. Enjoy a drink on the terrace of the first-floor cocktail bar, then head down to the buzzy main room dominated by an open kitchen and a stainless-steel counter. There's something for everyone among the colourful small plates that take on global influences and burst with freshness and flavour. Many of the good value wines are also offered by the glass.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Three converted sheds hidden away in the heart of town play host to this bright, airy restaurant with an attractive summer courtyard for alfresco dining. The menu lists an enticing, seasonally changing selection of well-priced small plates and larger sharing dishes. Robust, satisfying flavours abound across the cooking, starting strong with the excellent sourdough and Marmite butter. The team are welcoming and friendly, and their operation also includes a coffee shop and deli on the High Street.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. Now well into its second decade, The Gunton Arms is still an absolute joy to visit. There is an unerring simplicity to the place and an honesty to the hearty, gimmick-free and immensely flavourful cooking. Prime local meats – including from the 1,000-acre Gunton Estate deer park – form the backbone of the menu, cooked over fire in the flag-floored Elk Room, where you really feel like you're in on the action. While these cuts catch the eye, there's brilliant value to be found elsewhere on the menu, especially among offal and nose-to-tail dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Maida Vale residents hit the jackpot when the owners of Notting Hill’s The Pelican chose this neighbourhood for the location of their third venture. The Hero is like a blueprint for how to sympathetically restore and update a pub, and has been understandably packed since Day One. The same menu and warm, buzzy atmosphere can be found across both floors, with traditional pub dishes at the heart – expect the likes of mince on toast, egg mayonnaise with smoked eel or a chicken and tarragon pie. Engaging service is the final touch on a wonderful experience.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Take in delightful views of the Malvern Hills from the charming terrace of this country inn, or cosy up inside the understated New England-esque dining room. There's certainly a degree of style to the place, in both the décor and the attractive presentation of the dishes, which thankfully taste as good as they look, incorporating plenty of punchy flavours like pickled enoki or a rich red wine jus. There's a generosity to the portion sizes, especially in the starters – check out the specials board for some of the best value dishes.

Bib Gourmand • British Contemporary. Adam Handling’s country inn is named in honour of where he met his co-owner chefs: Scotland and Newcastle. The room has a characterful vintage style, and the terrace sits beside raised beds which supply herbs and vegetables for the attractively presented dishes. Among them are re-worked pub classics like the playful haggis Scotch egg or the mac and cheese 'our way'. For dessert, look out for the ever-present trifle, which changes with the seasons. Complete your visit with a stay in one of the luxuriously appointed bedrooms.

Bib Gourmand • British Contemporary. Spend an hour or two at this lovely pub and you'll leave feeling a good deal happier than when you entered. The impressive kitchen and service teams will ensure you are looked-after and well-fed, inside the charming surroundings of their part-red-brick, part-timbered pub – which also boasts a lovely enclosed terrace. The cooking puts naturally delicious ingredients at the forefront and doesn't shy away from big flavours, like warming nudja with roasted poussin. Look out for the 'Steak Frites Night' and come midweek to make the most of the wallet-friendly pricing.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Take a big old Victorian boozer and do it up, serve gutsy food with a British heart, and keep the menu flexible and the prices sensible – and you have a pub we’d all like to have at the end of our street. Clearly the residents of Notting Hill agree, as the place is packed to the rafters, so you'd be wise to book ahead before your visit. For fans of no-nonsense food packed with natural flavour, it really is the place to be; from whole roasted turbot to tomahawk steak, the chefs have the good sense to let their quality produce do the talking.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. You’ll find this friendly village pub with a bright, modern feel tucked away down a narrow country lane. When it comes to the cooking, things are hearteningly traditional, with eternal favourites like bangers and mash – along with daily specials – cooked with great care and using quality ingredients, resulting in straightforward, flavour-packed food. 'Pie night' – with weekly changing filling choices – and a proper Sunday roast add to the appeal, as do charming service and a prime view of the local cricket pitch.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. This friendly town centre dining pub is set within a boldly painted Victorian building and has a lovely vintage feel; if you want a table in the bar area, be sure to arrive early, as it’s first-come, first-served. The regularly changing menu has a strong British heart combined with a Mediterranean touch, resulting in gutsy, good value dishes like ox tongue and piccalilli or melting squid ragout with fennel, orzo and tapenade. It's the sort of pub everyone wants at the bottom of their street.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. A delightful operation from the team behind The Old Stamp House and situated directly above it, this deservedly busy restaurant is named after a local fish found in only four nearby lakes. It’s indicative of the distinctly Lakeland feel to the menu, which is epitomised by the likes of lip-smacking Herdwick hogget shoulder, plus a dish of ‘mushrooms found around the woods in Ambleside’. Sit at the counter to see the chefs or by the window to people-watch the tourists passing by. Desserts such as sticky toffee madeleines cooked to order ensure you’ll leave on a sugary high.

Bib Gourmand • Scottish, Traditional Cuisine. Comfort food abounds at this relaxed operation from the Tom Kitchin stable, which positions itself as a real neighbourhood pub, but one that also happens to serve great-tasting food. As this is one of the busiest eateries in Edinburgh, you need to make sure to book if you’re to indulge in the hearty joys of haggis, neeps and tatties, or the signature fish pie that packs in plenty of flavour with its generous helping of seafood. Leave room for dessert too, as the sweet-toothed are well looked after with the likes of vanilla rice pudding.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional British. You’ll receive a warm welcome from the charming team at this bright, characterful village pub. It’s decorated in a personal style with framed maps and menus, and its shelves groan under the weight of cookery books. Dishes are skilfully crafted and chock-full of flavour; choose from sophisticated dishes on the main menu, tempting free-range rotisserie chicken or pizzas cooked in the wood-burning oven. Stylishly appointed bedrooms complete the package; Hayloft is the best.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Nestled under the railway arches in Manchester’s Green Quarter is this somewhat hidden restaurant where you have to ring a bell to enter. Its name is (almost) the English translation of the word ‘spätzle’ – which gives some clue as to the style of food on offer here. An assortment of dumplings and pastas are made in-house, from gnocchi to pelmeni via some excellent pierogi, with bright, fresh salads on hand to balance out the carbs. There's a bottle shop attached for you take something home, while the wine list favours smaller producers – surprisingly, there's a sake selection too.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. From the wooden beams to the antique furniture, there’s a huge amount of character to this spacious pub that sits inside four former cottages. The welcoming feel of the inglenook fireplace is matched by the warmth and pride of the service team as they serve a menu offering something for everyone, from a few pub classics to more inventive dishes. Great care in the cooking allows strong, complementary flavours to shine through, as in a lemon posset dessert with pistachio cream and a great bergamot gel. On a summer’s day, make sure you head straight for the terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Situated in a rural-feeling location on the London commuter belt, this appealing, well-run pub comprises several different areas; dine in the brighter room overlooking the terrace and pretty garden, or head straight outside on warmer days. The cooking is satisfying and seasonal, with the chefs skilfully weaving in subtle influences from across East and Southeast Asia, be it miso mushroom parfait, gochujang-glazed squid or Northern Thai red curry soup. The great value set menu, bright young team and well-chosen wine list all enhance the experience.

Bib Gourmand • European. Set in the heart of a pretty village and fronted by an attractive terrace, this former pub is now a laid-back restaurant offering satisfying modern cooking at a wallet-friendly price. The menus range from a particularly great value daily selection to an ambitious à la carte and an inventive tasting menu, all exhibiting the kitchen's skilled control of flavour and balance. Dishes like chicken liver parfait and dulche de leche cheesecake might sound straightforward, but they're executed with such aplomb. The friendly service team are eager to please.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. If you’re after something a little different, head to Nicholsons Nursery to have lunch in this lovely yurt – which is fashioned from upcycled materials – or in one of the themed private huts alongside. The generously sized, Mediterranean-influenced cooking is unfussy in style but propelled by bold flavours and excellent technique from the kitchen; cider-cured chalkstream trout with a brilliantly made crab bisque is a wonderful example. The confident, bright and breezy service is a natural fit for a place where you can't help but find yourself smiling.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Named after the fine Italian '00' flour that’s used for making pasta, this relaxed and comforting restaurant could quickly become your go-to in Edinburgh’s New Town. British, Mediterranean and Italian cuisines all influence the menu, which provides plenty of flavour and value for money. The small plates selection is mightily appealing, but it's the seriously good homemade pastas like bigoli cacio e pepe that most catch the eye.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. Inspired by a restaurant in Patagonia, this slick spot is a great place to while away the hours with a few drinks and accomplished small plates. The relaxed surroundings offer multiple areas to dine in, including on the terrace and at the kitchen counter bedecked with beautiful blue tiles. The menu ranges from snacks to the more substantial, with the unfussy approach resulting in simple, fresh-tasting dishes like a terrific take on Welsh rarebit. Add in the friendly service and you’ll leave with a smile on your face – just ensure you get here early as they don’t take bookings.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The Italian ethos of uncluttered, straightforwardly delicious cooking is alive and well at this bright neighbourhood restaurant. Let the staff guide you when it comes to ordering the sharing plates, but you're sure to be satisfied by any of the terrific homemade pastas plus the beautifully balanced cannoli to finish. The Italian wine list is as fabulously well-priced as the food, and the buzzing atmosphere and friendly service add to the appeal. It's easy to see why the place is so popular.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. For over 20 years, this passionately run restaurant has continued to evolve and look to the future, without losing sight of the quality cooking that has made it such a hit for so long. Situated in the shadow of one of Europe's tallest working windmills, the building sports a unique style of décor that blends graffiti art with exposed brickwork, and the permanently busy cocktail bar is a key feature. The kitchen shows great skill in deriving plenty of flavour from deceptively simple dishes like hake with leek and basil broth.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Joy and generosity are the tent-poles of this casual sharing plates restaurant situated above its slightly more formal and luxurious sibling. The open-plan kitchen is the focus of the intimate dining room, where everyone sits at high tables and the sound of good cheer fills the air. The visually appealing dishes are packed with distinct, hugely satisfying flavours; many are cooked over fire, like terrific Cornish squid with chickpeas and saffron aioli. Pricing is fair and the service is charming.

Bib Gourmand • Modern British. There is a whole lot to enjoy from the daily blackboard menus at this relaxed, understated operation. Both the décor and the cooking have a rustic edge to them, with the latter British-based, seafood-centric and guided by the seasons. Both individual and communal seating are available to enjoy the flavoursome dishes from, as is the kitchen counter, while the attentive team deal well with the buzz of a permanently busy restaurant. Quality sourdough is provided by their sister operation Jolene and while other dishes may come and go, the rum baba to share remains a constant.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Behind its fine Georgian façade, this charmingly run neighbourhood restaurant isn't quite what you'd expect. It's a bright, modern place with energy emanating from its open kitchen. It is here that the team take quality Northern Irish produce and craft it into dishes that are big on flavour and wholly satisfying; game season is a highlight, with dishes like perfectly roasted partridge with a rich chicken butter. Indecisive diners beware, the menu is extensive and every dish sounds so delicious you'll be deliberating for hours.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A real gem of a property with bucketloads of history, this restaurant's premises has had former lives as a stone chapel and, as the name suggests, a printworks for a local paper. Today the lovingly restored building has a fresh, modern feel and is the setting for seasonally influenced small plates that sometimes feature meat from the owners' family farm. Be sure to choose the cod when available, especially if served with the fabulous romesco sauce. Their strapline is ‘Drink, Dine, Unwind’ and you can easily do all three without breaking the bank.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, Fusion. Are there any rules about showering a scoop of honey-infused vanilla cream with grated Parmesan cheese? Is there a consensus on whether an entire orb of creamy burrata goes well with rice cakes and gochujang-marinated chicken? There’s a first time for everything at this rambunctious little restaurant in the Lower East Side. The team works with a solid foundation of Korean flavors and from there, springboards into uncharted waters. Creative, bold dishes—all of which beg to be shared—run up and down this menu. Those wanting to stick to something more familiar will not leave disappointed. Littleneck clams and house-made sweet potato soojebi bathed in a savory butter and pepper-tinged broth is a satisfying start, followed by tender medallions of grilled Iberico pork galbi resting in a pool of spicy red chili paste.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Italian. Families and tourists alike flock to A16, known for rustic Italian cooking and a vast selection of delicious, unusual wines from all over the boot. Reservations for dinner are a must, especially if you want one of the prime counter seats facing the open kitchen and wood-burning pizza oven. The menu’s pies, pastas, and antipasti shift seasonally, though the maccaronara with ragu napoletana is a staple. Opt for the Vesuvio, a smoky, savory, and spicy pizza topped with tomato, soppressata, scamorza, caciocavallo, and chili. For dessert, look no further than the fig crostata with vanilla gelato. Craving something sweet? Choose from a tempting array including chocolate tart, tiramisu, and panna cotta, as well as house-made gelato and sorbet.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Seafood. Are we in Bywater or Mexico? Pastel pink tile, gorgeous stonework and striking breeze walls set a stylish, dramatic stage for Chef Ana Castro. Not to be outdone by the room’s good looks, she offers an inspired, seafood-driven menu that showcases equal levels of boldness and flair. Consider the superb “al pastor” hamachi tostada, the corn for which is nixtamalized in-house. Hearty masa-dough dumplings tossed with Higgins crab, oyster mushrooms and a corn beurre blanc deliver warmth and refinement in spades. Even something like a sweet potato arrives turbo-charged with peanut mole, turmeric and lime. A custard-like flan ends the meal on a sweet note. The bar, meanwhile, shakes up a dazzling selection of vibrant, craveworthy cocktails.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. Note: This restaurant is temporarily closed.Come with a group and order with abandon. The food here is so good that it will be hard to hold back. This dining room manages to be both modest and ornate, filled with large round tables covered in purple linen, alongside walls of gold-framed photos and murals. The vibe is so open and friendly that you might see cheese plates being enthusiastically shared among neighboring diners. The cooking is as honest as the servers, who are happy to direct you on how to order best. Dolmeh and chicken kebabs with stewed sour cherries and an irresistible yogurt sauce are the kind of dishes one can imagine eating every day of the week. Fattoush made with crunchy vegetables, verdolagas and dressed in a lemony dressing sprinkled with sumac spells of garden goodness.

Bib Gourmand • Creative, Hungarian. You have room for one more dish, right? It’s a question that will come up often at this sweet little diner in Crown Heights. Chef Jeremy Salamon takes inspiration (and the restaurant’s name) from his Hungarian grandmother for a delightfully casual but fine-tuned effort. With walls painted cupcake pink, the kitchen has a real talent for bread. A thick slide of grilled potato pullman bread smeared with whipped chicken liver mousse topped with sour cherry caramel is a decadent treat, while a bowl of savory chicken broth bobbing with nokdeli, or Hungarian dumplings,will cure your ails. Yes, there are crepes — thin, delicate and none too sweet — but there’s also cheesecake.

Bib Gourmand • American. This West Palm Beach spot originally opened in 2014 but since then it's leveled up with an in-house bakery and an open kitchen. The interior isn't fussy, but the all-day dining menu sure does tempt with its array of baked goods and breakfast sandwiches in the morning and soup, salads, and sandwiches at lunch. There's even a sampling of dinner options that are ready to go home and reheat. The menu is updated regularly and there are always specials but if they have the black bean and tomatillo soup, it's a worthy order. The red-tinted broth is loaded with flavor; sided by two slices of house-made sourdough, it's a satisfying meal. The roasted veggie sandwich spread with goat cheese on ciabatta is another winner, but don't leave without a sweet like the bold and bright lemon loaf.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. True to its name, this Sichuan stalwart does not sit in plain sight. A short walk off Flushing’s Main Street leads to an interior that is equally unexpected: A stylish corridor of concrete, curved wood chairs and elegant panel screens. The menu, now entirely electronic, is lengthy but the glamorous photos are accurate reflections of what’s to come. Chicken dumplings sitting in a pool of red chili sauce, and tender rolls of pork belly with sesame cold noodles are sensible starters for a meal that ramps up quite quickly thanks to a lightning-fast kitchen. In a flash, the table crowds with fiery bowls of mapo tofu and cauldrons of braised beef spiked with roasted chilies. Indeed, chilies, spices and heat are used to powerful, delicious effect.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. This stylish Mexican restaurant is bright and modern, with light-flooded windows and comfy banquettes, while the communal table and cozy bar lined with stools are great spaces to socialize and make new friends.Alta Calidad, means “high quality” and this talented chef certainly puts his money where his mouth is. Crispy tempura shrimp are set atop a tortilla with crunchy cabbage remoulade for an original dish, while paper-thin carne asada sprinkled with Chihuahua cheese and griddled until caramelized and crisp is another standout. Oregano roasted chicken tacos are simply finished with avocado-chipotle aioli and salsa cruda, or order the skewer of octopus, pork belly and potatoes over poblano rice. Churros with acacia honey and chocolate atole sauce are just right.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Yet another in the wave of Mexican-American LA chefs transforming the cuisine, Thomas Ortega brings his fine-dining drill to bear on this vibrant offering in his native Cerritos. Here he fuses his specific style of the city’s Mexican cuisine, like handmade tortillas and spicy salsas, with an American twist. Look for that Coca-Cola glaze on his pork belly or the sprinkle of Doritos on chilaquiles, not to mention such luxurious accents as truffles.It’s hard to miss with any of Chef Ortega's tacos, which range from crisp beer-battered cod with smoky salsa de arbol to tender, charred al pastor. Can't decide? Order the tour de tacos for an overview of the flavors the kitchen has to offer. Fried “calamari famoso” is the ideal partner for a spicy michelada.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. A onetime pop-up, this contemporary Mexican restaurant now enjoys a permanent home in a minimalist space just off Dupont Circle. Chef Christian Irabién prioritizes exceptional ingredients, as in corn sourced from Oaxaca, then nixtamalized in-house. The menu is wide-ranging with selections from the raw bar, appetizers, sopecitos, and an array of main dishes like halibut with mole. Sides, such as a fried plantain that seems simple but is layered with flavor, shouldn't be overlooked. No matter the selection, every dish tempts with creative and contemporary flair. Take the papaya nixtamal. Cooked in piloncillo and Mexican vanilla, served over a coconut cream and finished with fennel pollen and wildflower honey, it mystifies with mind-bending complexity.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Italian-American. Landlubbers seeking a taste of the sea can be found pulling up a stool at this Castro institution, where waves of waiting diners spill out the doors. This tiny, minimally adorned space filled with old-fashioned charm is better for twosomes than groups. While the menu may be petite, it’s full of fresh fare like a light and flavorful Dungeness crab “burger” on a sesame bun; Caesar salad combining sweet prawns and tangy anchovy dressing; or a cup of creamy Boston clam chowder loaded with clams and potatoes. As the name portends, raw oysters are a specialty—so briny that the accompanying mignonette may not be necessary. And of course, the cioppino is unmissable, as this signature item turns sublime when paired with delicious and buttery garlic bread.

Bib Gourmand • American, Pizza. No matter the time of day, there’s always a line stretched around this corner off Palumbo Park. This cash-only hotspot has no seating anywhere, forcing diners to scatter about the neighborhood to eat on benches and sidewalks. The trouble is well worth it. Serious, hefty cheesesteaks bound with Cooper Sharp cheese or “long hot whiz” are built on long, warm, sesame-seed hoagies. Hot cherry peppers are a necessary topping. A single sandwich could feed two with ease. Those who also want pizza will need friends to take on this imposing feast.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese Contemporary. This Vietnamese-inspired restaurant in Houston’s Autry Park is elegant without ever feeling over the top. The dining room is bright and airy, with lots of white, soft cream and beige tones, cozy booths and large tables.This is an elevated but approachable menu threaded with French influences. The portions lean large, making it an ideal place to bring a date or a group of friends. A salad of Thai mango and chilled shrimp is a refreshing start before savory dishes like shaking filet mignon or pan-fried branzino. Served whole over a bed of vegetables, it's served with a classic nước chấm sauce for a kick of sweet, sour and spicy flavor.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Owner Giovanni Di Palma's Antico Pizza Napoletano promises exactly that. Walk through two sets of doors right up to a counter with the menu posted overhead—it's where you'll decide between rosso and bianche pizzas or calzoni. Can't choose? The Sophia, a decadent version topped with soft cippolini onions, mushrooms fragrant with white truffle oil, bufala and garlic, is a house special.After picking your preference, find a seat at the communal table in the cavernous dining room which shares space with the prep kitchen. It's lively here, as the dough is shaped and baked in one of three ovens. The show will whet your appetite for delicious pizza like the lasagna, topped with deconstructed “meatball,” garlic, ricotta, romana, bufalo and basil, and served on a sheet tray.

Bib Gourmand • Venezuelan, Small eats. Founder/owner Lis Hernández dials up the charm at Arepa Mia in Avondale Estates. Warm hospitality is a hallmark here, where bright walls and colorful metal chairs and tables instantly boost your mood. The Venezuelan menu is all about the namesake arepas, grilled and filled with everything from yucca and plantain flour-encrusted chicken to pernil with caramelized onions. Other items include patacones and cachapas. The cooking and ingredients are quality driven, and the portions are generous. Feast on selections like the hearts of palm and avocado salad to start, then tuck in to a fried chicken arepa with mango salsa, followed by a guava and cheese empanada. Fresh juices slake your thirst, though the full bar has some fantastic rum choices.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Middle Eastern. At this brightly hospitable neighborhood charmer, find an exploration of contemporary cuisine that pulls in influences from the Mediterranean, North Africa and Middle East. The menu leads with mezze, featuring top-notch versions of familiar staples like hummus, babaganoush and falafel, paired with fluffy wood-fired whole-grain pita made from heritage wheat. Dinner offers more substantial fare, as in savory tagines with eggplant or chicken. The cooking is vegetable forward and accommodates dietary restrictions (there's even a gluten-free pita option). There are no gimmicks here, just thoughtful, full-flavored dishes made with high quality ingredients and a bit of extra style.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Sichuan. This sexy Dupont Circle spot is frequented by a young crowd who keeps coming back for the cool scene and the well-priced modern and locally inspired food that often leans funky but is always delicious. Those seeking value should look no further than the "dishes for one," while those here with a pack of pals will find plenty to share. One dish to not miss is the cumin lamb. The kitchen layers on the flavors, resulting in tender, vibrant meat. La-Zi chicken is braised and fried with sweet leeks, ginger, garlic and plenty of chili, while mapo tofu with ground beef, chili, garlic, scallion and Sichuan peppercorn is always a hit. No reservations or just want a quick bite? The bar always has room.

Bib Gourmand • Californian. Husband-and-wife Andrew and Larah Bachelier have fashioned a hipster haven at this Encinitas hideaway where the covered patio dining area is set with furnishings crafted from recycled and upcycled materials. Meanwhile in the kitchen, local ingredients are the basis for a streamlined selection of seasonally focused and shareable dishes for breakfast and lunch. Whether you've ordered the locally caught halibut with sudachi and coconut leche de tigre or the grilled Salmon Creek Farms pork rack with a tableside pour of pomegranate-infused jus, expect plates that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Their nonalcoholic drinks menu features a variety of skillfully crafted and delicious thirst quenchers.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. Atla may live in the shadow of its older sibling Cosme, but the casual Lafayette Street restaurant holds its own. The airy, modern room with a steady daytime buzz sets the tone for straightforward, ingredient-driven Mexican cooking. Start with tacos, where house-made tortillas are the backbone of the menu: suadero tacos arrive juicy and well-seasoned with onion, cilantro and serrano, while octopus tacos pair tender pieces of seafood with melted Chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo and morita. Larger plates, like the al pastor gringa with pork and pineapple butter atop a flour tortilla, are designed for sharing. Desserts, including fresh churros with dulce de leche, are a required finale.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Bakery. Welcome to the workshop of Chef Antonio Bachour, a talented baker whose brightly colored tarts and elaborate pastries take center stage in this industrial setting. Open since 2019, an arch of roses marks the entrance to this busy daytime spot. Once inside, a perch at the counter in the back offers diners a front-row view of the glass-enclosed bakery. Seating aside, a simple lunch of ham croquettes, crab tostones, or a salad is the best way to start before going all-in on a dazzling array of sweets. Think mango-passion fruit macarons, flaky croissants striped with vibrant green bands of pistachio, indulgent Parisian flans, and other ornate creations that resemble oranges and raspberries. Don’t worry about overordering – these treats travel well.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, Contemporary. The name references the traditional style of serving a communal Korean meal, which dates back centuries to the Joseon royal court, but there's nothing remotely old-fashioned or stuffy about a meal here. The cooking is an unapologetically contemporary take on Korean cuisine, readily incorporating ingredients like parmesan cheese and chorizo into the likes of kimchi fried rice or crispy rice cakes, fitting together seamlessly beside more classic offerings like mulhwe, a dish of raw seafood with a chilled fermented chili broth. Appropriately, the tapas-style menu is geared toward shared plates, though a starter of sweet-tangy soy lime glazed fried chicken, boasting a craggy, ultra-crunchy exterior and juicy, tender meat, is so good you'll want to discard any idea of sharing.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Say hello to your quintessential neighborhood hangout. Armed with two bars, candles flickering on every surface and a menu committed to southern Italy, Chef Karen Akunowicz’s bigger-boned follow-up to Fox & The Knife gets all the little details just right. A lengthy amaro selection and fine-tuned cocktails set the stage for familiar dishes that deliver on flavor and finesse. Salt cod fritters come cleverly dusted in za’atar. House-made pastas like spaghetti al limone with Jonah crab or squid ink casarecce with lobster and chili are full meals that will leave barely any room for a particularly stunning veal saltimbocca. Dessert is a must, and the tiramisu with amaro-soaked ladyfingers packs all the crunch you didn’t know you needed.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, American. Barbs B Q is run by pitmaster Chuck Charnichart and her small team. Waiting in line for good barbecue is a Texas tradition, and this place, with its hours-long lines is no exception. You'll need to stave off your cravings until the weekend though, as it's only open on Saturday and Sunday. The Lockhart gem's compact menu lists a handful of meats that read classic but have been given a twist, as in the Molotov pork ribs finished with lime zest, giving the tender meat just the right amount of zing. Turkey with a black pepper rub is a total standout, and don't miss the unique sides like green spaghetti made with a smoked poblano sauce. Chocolate pudding and cobbler round out the meal.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Concrete floors, cream walls and an open kitchen with a wood-burning oven set an industrial-chic tone at Basta. Snag a spot at the bar and you'll have a front row seat to the culinary action, where family-style, contemporary Italian-American cooking is the name of the game. Start things off right with a shareable starter like burrata or the silky chicken liver mousse with peach mostarda that is sided by crusty bread from next-door sister bakery, Dry Storage. Definitely don't skip the smoked dark green olives—they're an unexpected delight. From there, entrees are satisfying, especially the half chicken. End on a sweet note with a plate of five beignet-style doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar and a dulce de leche Chantilly cream.

Bib Gourmand • Cambodian. Husband-and-wife owners Minh and Mandy Truong offer an elegant peek into traditional Cambodian flavors at their Upper East Side restaurant, where a comprehensive a la carte menu offers a wide selection of everything from Khmer noodles and fried rice to Siem Reap specials, along with sections dedicated entirely to duck and fish. Top picks include chive dumplings, fried to a golden crisp and served with a ginger soy sauce, and nyoam, or thick rice noodles, tossed with a red curry sauce made with ground fish, cucumbers, long beans, and bean sprouts. Don't miss the banh chao crepe, a half-round golden crepe filled with ground shrimp, chicken, and a variety of vegetables and spices, that's intended for stuffing into lettuce wraps for a delicious treat.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. The makings of a great day begin with lunch at this airy raw bar that gets all the details just right. In downtown Birmingham next door to their flagship restaurant Helen, Rob and Emily McDaniel direct their attention to pristine seafood and freshly shucked oysters. Whole-fish butchery and a passion for seasonality yield superb dividends, and one could make feast out of a series of small plates. Start with the clever seafood charcuterie, which includes the likes of wahoo salami and cobia sausage. Gulf coast crab bound with corn remoulade sitting atop a perfectly ripe tomato is a Southern celebration. Fries for the table? Yes, please. Meanwhile, for dessert, coconut cream pie is a must.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. In an unassuming dining room in Spring, Chef Thomas Bille is putting it all on the plate. Unafraid to mix and match the cuisines that inspire him, he cooks largely with Mexico in mind. Think saag paneer with spinach mole verde and a stack of warm, sumptuous tortillas made with half corn and half flour. Other possible starters—all of which are portioned to share— include tuna tostadas with nori or street corn agnolotti. Such twists and turns make for immensely satisfying courses that feel bold and balanced. The smartest twist of all might be the finely spiced cherry mole with Rohan duck breast. It’s unlikely you’ll make it to dessert with much spare room, but do consider the tres leches, cleverly prepared with passionfruit and torched meringue.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Italian. After making a match at NYC’s Roberta’s, Brendan Smith and Rachel Greenspan took their pizza-powered love affair to the West Coast to a gleaming perch in the Montecito Country Mart. Each night, the pair dishes up a bevy of pie varieties tattooed with the delicate char of their wood-fired oven. Even staples like pepperoni are exceptional, thanks to the slow-fermented dough, house-pulled mozzarella, and tangy, ripe tomatoes from Bianco DiNapoli, and seasonal options like a creamed leek pizza with pork sausage and crispy shallot are equally satisfying. Pastas, like a hand-cut tagliatelle with braised lamb shoulder, show similar care. This oven also does a solid sideline in baked goods, so grab some brown-butter chocolate chip cookies or a crusty sourdough loaf on your way out.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Note: This restaurant is temporarily closed.This Mexican institution specializes in a single item—birria—tender, stewed goat accompanied by diced onions, cilantro, and house-made salsa. In fact, goat is all that’s on the menu, though you’ll get a few options as to how to enjoy it: on a plate or in a bowl, in a small or large portion, bone-in or bone-out. Opt for bone-in if possible, as it packs far more flavor. The bowl option drowns the goat in a generous dose of hearty goat consommé, while the plate is accompanied by handmade corn tortillas for build-your-own tacos, with a small side of consommé for dipping. You can’t go wrong either way, but if you’re feeling extra decadent, go for the goat quesadilla, a perfect trinity of pillowy tortillas, gooey cheese, and savory goat meat goodness.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Asian. Few smokehouses celebrate the city’s diverse cultural footprint quite like this one, where Texas barbecue traditions merge with Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean flavors. Where else will you find banh mi with pho-rubbed beef belly, a swipe of garlic aioli, chicken liver pâté? How many pitmasters glaze their ribs in gochujang? Classic offerings of brisket and ribs satisfy, but the restaurant’s heart lives in the daily specials, which change with great frequency. Take a look around: A nearby table (indoors or out) will always have a dish you wish you had ordered. How’s the brisket fried rice? What about that smoked char siu banh mi? Do you have room for the watermelon salad? These are questions for the next visit – and the visits after that.

Bib Gourmand • Czech. It's old-world Bohemia, not hippie-chic, at this Czech beer hall located on the first floor of the National Bohemian Hall building. It exudes a classic European bar vibe with wood paneling, simple wood tables and vintage knick knacks. Naturally, beers and pilsners are the drink of choice, but for grape lovers, there is a nice European-focused wine list sprinkled with Czech wines. Hearty fare is definitely in store here. A large bowl of borscht arrives redolent of dill and is tangy and vibrant with a buttery finish, while grilled kielbasa is smoky and moist, sided by a mustard-forward potato salad. Dumplings litter the menu, even at dessert, where strawberry-filled dumplings topped with crumbled gingerbread are a delicious finale.

Bib Gourmand • Southern. Once a pop-up and a food stall, this popular breakfast and brunch restaurant has moved down the street from their original brick-and-mortar location in Grant Park. The new space may be larger and more contemporary, but that freshly baked vibe remains. The menu shows off simple but successful plates ranging from breakfast sandwiches to brunch plates with fried chicken and other staples. Baked goods, like cinnamon rolls with a thick, tangy cream cheese glaze, are exceptional, but given the name, biscuits, ranging from traditional to jalapeno and cheddar, are an absolute must. Go for broke with a hearty biscuit sandwich stacked high with egg and cheese or hot honey chicken with pickles.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Amit Kumar's fresh and fine outlet sports a welcoming exterior and cheerful interior, done up with orange booths and bright accents. Diners may settle in for a range of enjoyable, well-prepared South Indian small plates which form the nucleus of this tempting menu.The street special dosa is a departure from the norm, here stuffed with potato, cabbage, paneer and red onion, and served with coconut sambal and curry gravy for dipping.Vegetarians will thrill to the sight of meat-free specials, like kathal masaledar, featuring tender chunks of jackfruit in a zesty tomato-and-onion masala; while tandoor options like hara teekha murg tikka (skewers of white meat chicken marinated in a herbal mixture) is grilled to luscious, crisp perfection.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Californian. Fire provides the central motif for this boisterous community staple, from the venue itself (a former fire station) to the name (Spanish for fire woman), all the way to a crackling wood-fired oven that not only animates the kitchen, but also provides ash used to nixtamalize corn for house-made masa. All of this seems perfectly fitting for Chef Dominica Rice-Cisneros, whose passion has helped to shape Oakland's current Mexican restaurant scene, combining a locavore pedigree and fine dining chops with a respect for the generational knowledge of heritage cooking. The single best illustration might be a dish of beautifully rendered duck leg confit, paired with a delightfully complex, nutty mole verde, just-right black beans and handmade blue corn tortillas.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese, American. Located within earshot of the BQE’s rumble in east Williamsburg in a nondescript corner, Bonnie's is an absolute discovery. Inside, the look is retro Hong Kong diner through and through but Chef Calvin Eng plates Cantonese regional cuisine with modern interpretations. Yeung yu sang choi bao is a wonder, stuffed with shrimp, green mustard and lettuces, then crisped and presented whole. The salt and pepper shrimp is tossed with melted red onions and is ideal for sharing. Don't sleep on the classic Hong Kong street food like cheung fun, with tender, seared rice noodles tossed with shrimp and scallop X.O. sauce and bits of cured pork. The creativity extends through dessert.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. The intoxicating, unmistakable aroma of garlic fills the narrow room every time someone opens the rice cooker. This rice is the foundation of all things that are good at this homey Filipino restaurant that started out as a food stall. To begin, the crispy pork belly hash is an impressive starter that could very well double as an entrée. Pork, in fact, is all over this small menu, arriving as crispy belly or marinated with herbs and spices or presented as sausage. Tender filets of steelhead trout swimming in a burnt tomato and tamarind broth offer a delicate reprieve from the meat. Dessert is a must: A creamy plantain comes wrapped as a spring roll, dusted in brown sugar and deep fried. It’s as close as you’ll ever get to a handheld crème brûlée.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Italian. Westchester is clearly upping its culinary game and attracting real talent. Case in point: this gleaming gem of a spot, headed by Paul DiBari. A citywide mover and shaker, he is spearheading this contemporary, focused kitchen and stellar beverage selection.Find a seat at the marble bar and watch the magic unfold. Soft jazz fills the air, as highly civilized servers deliver your fare. Hand-cut maltagliati with ricotta, tomatoes and basil; brasato di spalla di manzo braised in red wine with mascarpone polenta; or rillettes de cochon with pork confit are just some of the feats. The blood orange-olive oil cake is a rich finale; teas from Bel­locq Tea Atelier are less decadent but dazzling all the same.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Few things go together as perfectly as biscuits and barbecue, and that's the premise behind this truck from Christopher McGhee and William Spence, located on the Radio Coffee lot. It's popular but they have ordering down pat with a QR code and a call-ahead option that keeps things moving along. Good thing too, as you won't want to wait for a bite of their melt-in-your-mouth brisket and flakey biscuit sandwich with a swoop of smoked strawberry jam thrown in for good measure. Or, try the pork belly with spiced apple pear preserves, a fried chicken biscuit, or even a simple egg sandwich biscuit sided by hash browns—it's all good. To top it all off, beef sausage and wings, as well as sides like pimento cheese grits, round out their barbecue staples.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Chef Vikas Khanna has struck out on his own at this warm and welcoming dining room where pale pink walls, colorful murals, and a bar with carved panels set a stunning tone. It's always bustling and securing a reservation may be difficult, with diners eagerly lining up early to snag a walk-in spot. Once you've found a seat, start with one of their unique cocktails (think turmeric-infused tequila and chili-infused mezcal), then tuck into contemporary Indian cuisine that showcases the diverse culinary traditions of India's 28 states. The kitchen's talent shines in standout dishes like the five cheese kulcha (stuffed flatbread) and yogurt kebabs wrapped in crispy kataifi pastry and served with a bright pickled cabbage puree and spicy mango coulis.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. In the town of Seguin, people start to queue long before doors even open. It’s always been this way for pitmasters Ernest Servantes and Dave Kirkland, both of whom were dueling fixtures and frequent victors at countless barbecue competitions before joining forces in 2021. The industrial space fit with iron beams and exposed brick has seemingly endless seating that does indeed fill up. Everyone is after the same thing: The offered meats – brisket, ribs, sausage – are notable for their tenderness, delicate smokiness, and measured levels of fat. Sides like green beans or firm spears of pickled okra balance out such hearty fare. Those who brave the weekend lines will be rewarded with specials like the beef rib or the Sunday-only breakfast menu.

Bib Gourmand • Italian-American, Pizza. Burrata is busy at all times for a myriad of reasons, not the least of which is the Chef/owner Chas Anderson's ability to create gorgeous, flavorful food. Even the open-floor design, with windows aplenty and oyster-tinted walls, is fresh and inviting.Thanks to the use of top-shelf ingredients and a wood-burning oven, this is a menu with not-to-miss pizze, along with starters and mains that deliciously blend New York and Italian sensibilities with a modern take on the beloved "red sauce" joint. Veal polpettine with robiolina cheese and tomato sauce is comfort in a bowl, as is the rigatoni enriched by Rohan duck ragù and porcini mushrooms. Of course, their signature Burrata pizza with its heady fragrance of mushrooms, delivers every time.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Long before doors open, a queue quickly forms along Third Avenue. Indeed, the demand for this no-reservations hotspot is serious – and well justified. Carefully prepared and astutely seasoned, the dishes coming out of this Vietnamese kitchen make a striking impression. Just-baked baguettes for the banh mi are top-notch: airy, light, flaky and warm. Brisket, tendon, tripe and steak come together in a soulful pho served with homemade noodles. There’s more, like steamed rolls with minced pork (bánh cuốn) and crispy, golden crepes served with bundles of fresh herbs (bánh xèo). Bring friends, order generously and crowd every square inch of the table.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Located inside Mills Market, Bánh Mì Boy brings a Vietnamese look, feel, and flavor to this food hall. As the name suggests, bánh mì, or sandwiches, are indeed the focus (try the crispy pork belly with roasted garlic mayo and house patė on French bread for a deeply savory and satisfying meal). It's not just about the classics, though, and fusion finds include a French dip with a side of pho broth, as well as a Vietnamese-style cheesesteak. The create-your-own summer roll option is undoubtedly one of their most appealing options, with the ability to pick from a variety of proteins (think pork belly and lemongrass chicken) to vegetables, spices, and sauces. Iced coffee or fresh sugar cane juice round out this spot-on meal.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Chef Eric JaeHo Choi's spot flies a bit under the radar, but with this wildly creative, cultural collision cooking, it deserves to be top of mind. You may become fast friends with your neighbor at this tiny space, but with a warm welcome from the hospitable staff, it's all part of the vibe. A compact menu keeps things tight with around ten dishes, but it's sprinkled with widely appealing Southern- and Korean-minded tapas-style plates. The cooking is straightforward and earnest with bold flavors. They're having plenty of fun from start to finish with items such as Seoul’sbury steak with galbi jus and gruyere grits, shrimp toast rolls and banana pudding with misugaru and meringue. Baby back ribs with a harissa glaze and plum coulis are slap-your-grandma good.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Italian. This trendy Brooklyn spot from Chef Paul D’Avino is quirky from start to finish, and that's exactly what makes it shine. The contemporary menu is equal parts modern and nostalgic, with an outlandish creativity to boot. It's all intended for sharing, so come with a gang and kick off the festivities with four squares of negroni Jell-O with Castelvetrano olives suspended inside. Garlic knot monkey bread is topped with dollops of Parmesan butter and before tucking into a plate of pasta, consider the muffaletta dim sum. You've likely never had anything like it before, where fried sesame balls are tucked with a “muffuletta filling" and sided by an olive salad spread. Finish with quince panna cotta layered with lemon ice and topped with a ricotta cookie.

Bib Gourmand • Peruvian. Everyone knows the old adage about being on the right side of the train tracks, but what about being under them? That’s the story of this humble Peruvian cevicheria, set just a few steps north of the John F. Kennedy International Airport. Cushy pillows atop tree trunks act as chairs outside; inside, by the door, speakers blare with Latin beats.No need to debate what to order: leche de tigre is the star, paraded out in a giant martini glass filled with thinly sliced octopus, scallops, shrimp, and set afloat in an electrifying elixir of lime juice and ginger. But perhaps the most surprising dish of all is the pork tamal, hidden away in the corner of the carte. It is presented in a bamboo steamer and highlights the magic that is soft, fluffy masa.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Middle Eastern. Chef Travis Swikard comes back to his hometown wreathed in glory, having earned his wings helming restaurants for culinary icon Daniel Boulud in New York City. Hip locals can now reap the benefits of the years he spent honing his craft in fine dining kitchens at this sharply designed and boisterous spot.The cuisine takes advantage of the best ingredients SoCal has to offer in highly shareable dishes featuring the bold, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean. Vegetables and seafood steal the show, with spice as a key supporting character. Behold the kampachi crudo with an herb-y Israeli hot sauce and black lime, or carrots with crunchy cashew dukkah and burnt orange habanero dressing. Save room for sweets like the warm chocolate chip tahini cookie.

Bib Gourmand • Caribbean, Regional Cuisine. It's tiny and tight but stylish at Cane, referencing Trinidad's history of producing sugar cane. With brightly colored shutters and pastel artwork, there's a definite tropical vibe about this place, where one wall even boasts a picture of former President Obama eating a double. The menu is a love letter to Trinidadian street food, and everything prepared by the kitchen is delicious: think rich stews, perfect doubles and channa, redolent of spices and heat. Snapper escoveitch is a light and flaky fish deep fried to perfection, then strewn with colorful pickles and pickled chili peppers. The pepperpot arrives smoldering with aromatic cinnamon; while perfectly braised brisket in spicy brown sauce features tender root vegetables, paired with rice and scooped into a fresh coconut shell.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Find the convivial Canon tucked away from the downtown bustle. Contrasting deep tones with bright whites, this cool space is packed most evenings. Chef Brad Cecchi's menu leans into bold, globally inspired small plates designed for sharing. Arrive with a group and explore widely, from vibrant vegetable dishes like roasted carrots layered with preserved black bean and herbaceous chutney to smoky duck legs brushed with honey and paired with salsa verde and hearty beans. The kitchen balances richness with brightness, and there are plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free diners. Dessert may be playful, but the savory plates are the true draw, delivering generous portions and big flavors in a relaxed, communal setting.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. This unassuming Indian restaurant on a quiet Sunnyside street remains a neighborhood essential. The menu is expansive and loosely pan-Indian, but the kitchen's strengths are clearest in its curries and tandoor, which arrive fresh, hot and well seasoned. The chef hails from Goa and brings particular focus to the "Indo-Portuguese" section, where dishes like lamb vindaloo stand out for their bright, vinegar-driven intensity rather than sheer heat. Elsewhere, vegetable dishes like saag paneer, lean green and restrained, letting the ingredients speak for themselves. Tandoori breads are well made, ideal for scooping and savoring the sauces. The kitchen may take its time, but the wait is rewarded.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Humble doesn’t even begin to describe this open-air restaurant, which has no walls and is seemingly built out of corrugated metal. But what comes out of the kitchen is anything but simple. In quiet Lincoln Heights, find a limited menu that excels in tender, stewed meats and soulful soups. The chef mines the memories of his hometown of Jalisco with carne en su jugo, a superb, meaty soup made from tomatillos, bacon, pinto beans and beef. Birria en consommé is another warming, brothy hit, packing in more delicacy and nuance than the typical effort. There must be tacos, of course, and tortillas are properly made in-house. We’re partial to the barbacoa doused in a fiery tomato salsa. All the while, a small staff welcomes you with infectious enthusiasm.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. From popular bakery pop-up to a brick and mortar in the Houston Heights, this daytime restaurant can do no wrong. Celebrating Mexican traditions and quality coffee, the menu is finely curated and endlessly tempting. We suggest working backwards to make the most of your appetite: Flaky, guava-queso empanadas and the famous horchata cream doughnut are essential desserts that sell out early. Chilaquiles built on superb tortilla chips and tender chunks of brisket is one of many worthy entrees. Heirloom corn is a point of pride here, exemplified by one very large tetela stuffed with mushroom-carrot tinga and set in a zippy salsa verde. There’s more, like the hoja santa French toast or the occasional mole special but save them for next time.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. If the line wrapped around the building doesn't clue you in, you'll know you've arrived at Cattleack Barbeque when the heady scent of wood smoke drifts along in the breeze. Owner and pitmaster Andrew Castelan highlights the classics, using oak and hickory wood for his barbecued meats, which change daily. Brisket and pork ribs are must-orders, but the specials, like a pork steak or wagyu pastrami brisket, are a close second. The meat is flavorful enough on its own, but bottles of their bright and tangy sauce are on every table. Of course, no barbecue spot worth its salt shirks the sides, and here, greens and burnt end beans or street corn are two winners. When they ask if you want cornbread, the answer is always a resounding yes.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. Some restaurants try very hard to impress and dazzle their customers. This sunny corner of Logan Square is not one of those places. In a recently refreshed, breezy dining room, Cellar Door Provisions is perfectly content with itself. And why shouldn’t it be? This is an honest restaurant with unfussy, no-nonsense cooking where the seasoning is spot-on and the flavors are clear. No tweezers, no fancy wine glasses, no military-grade kitchen brigade— just good eats, found in a plate of tender runner beans with garlic confit or a smooth scoop of duck liver mousse paired with just-warmed country bread. You could come here on a quiet date or wander in off the street and snag a counter seat. You’ll be happily greeted either way.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish, Seafood. The cooking has never been better at this high-energy galley built out of mosaic tiles and cozy wood paneling. Inspired by the coastal traditions of Spain and Portugal, the menu is packed with winners. Indeed, this is a kitchen that isn’t afraid of flavor. A salad of pea shoots is deceptive in its sophistication thanks to roasted hazelnuts, aged goat cheese and a blizzard of freshly cracked black pepper. Marinated potatoes tango with thinly sliced onions and fried rock shrimp. Fish is a must; swing for the seabream cooked until the skin is crisp as a chip and then covered in sweet Habanada peppers. Whether you’re waiting to get in, sitting at a table or bar, or cooking, everyone is elbow to elbow, and all too happy to stay a little while longer.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Step into this charming trattoria and you’ll instantly feel like part of the famiglia. A glass-walled pastificio provides a behind-the-scenes view of the production—from fusilli to tortelli, while a tableside tiramisu brings the show right to you.There's a warm, boisterous atmosphere here, accented by the hand-painted, mismatched pottery on each table, and a musical Italian lilt will make a glass of Valpolicella all the more enticing. Most of the menu is mix-and-match, with a selection of pasta shapes and sauces that can be paired to your liking (though the friendly servers may nudge you away from a bad combo). Those on a quest for indulgence should look no further than the truffled gnocchi with a cream sauce, served in its own copper pot.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. The team behind these stoves swimmingly brings the vibrant smoke- and spice-focused cuisine of the Yucatán Peninsula to life. Of course, that same region's rich and complex history simply means diners can expect nothing less than seriously intriguing cooking. Start off with a mezcal cocktail, customized with tamarind and mole bitters, or Mexican wine, by the glass. From there, spoon up every last drop of the charred habanero salsa that accompanies crisp corn empanadas filled with Oaxacan cheese and epazote. Cochinita pibil is prepared with marinated citrus and achiote, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that's accompanied with freshly made tortillas. Finish with tarta de mamey with a coconut crust and topped with bee pollen.

Bib Gourmand • Thai, Southern Thai. From its Hell's Kitchen location to its shared plates-style menu, Chalong is ideal for the post-work or pre-show crowd. The space is simply designed with dark wood and touches of blue at the bar, while rattan light fixtures are breezy-beautiful and eye-catching. Traditional Southern Thai flavors are celebrated and on display in the kitchen's selection of curries, rice and noodle dishes, and seafood plates. Don't skip the baerng golae, or grilled shrimp tossed in coconut curry and topped with fried coconut. Garlic-braised ribs are fried and served with a side of rice for a satisfying plate, but don't fill up, as the mango sticky rice, topped with a scoop of coconut ice cream and diced mango, is non-negotiable.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Ordering guacamole may be a reflex for many, but at Chavela’s, what lands on the table is far from the norm. Mexico City native Chef Arturo Leonar is the brains behind this exceptional riff, which mixes smoked trout, pico de gallo, and morita chile salsa to thrilling effect. His creativity even extends to other dishes, like taquitos de cangrego with sweet crabmeat and spicy salsa verde, as well as tamales with pork short rib and hoja santa with green mole Oaxaqueño sauce. Traditionalists may rest easy, as the subtly sweet mole coating chicken and enchiladas alike is bound to delight. Featuring a wrought-iron entrance door, the décor here is an absolute riot of color thanks to vibrant Mexican tiles surrounding the bar and artistic touches like that wall of ceramic butterflies.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, American. Nostalgia is alive and well inside the colorful dining room, complete with oceanic hues, soft cushions, vibrant artwork and a U-shaped bar. A large dining area with proper tables is perfect for groups.This throwback is a loud and happy place, thanks to an extensive menu of heartwarming Chinese-American classics. Crab rangoon and shrimp chips make an appearance, but don't miss those luscious dan dan noodles or "special combo" fried rice, studded with cubes of pork, shrimp and more. The bone-in pork shank with black bean sauce and charred cabbage is designated a "special" for good reason, and fried string beans in a rich, savory broad bean purée are a must. Finish with the sesame cake with jasmine and orange.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Shanghainese. With a line that’s almost always stretching out the front door, this hot spot in St. Marks Place remains one of the best places for elegant Shanghainese cooking. The décor itself is noteworthy: Red and cream lanterns add to the imperial décor with nooks and crannies snaking throughout. The menu is lengthy and there are plenty of familiar favorites to choose from, but first try asking the server about some regional highlights. Chicken soaked in Shaoxing wine; stir-fried rice cakes with pork and leeks; and peach resin stew with crabmeat are all worth consideration. Oddly enough, a recent stunner came straight out of the Sichuan lexicon: House special fish stew with Sichuan peppercorns is a must-order feast.There is also a second location in Flushing.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. Some Sichuan kitchens temper their heat levels depending on what they think the customer can handle. Not this one. This long-standing veteran has never been one to hold anyone’s hand and their widespread success has not at all cooled their approach. Expect nothing less than the full-throttle Sichuan experience where tongue-numbing, lip-tingling dishes arrive coated in heavy spices, garnished with sliced chilis and, often, doused in fire-engine red chili oil. Toothpick lamb, intensely aromatic with cumin and chilies, remains the house signature, but the crispy-crusted beef is a formidable rival. Fish with mom’s preserved chili sauce is unapologetically sinus-clearing. Even the vegetables show precision, as in the shredded potato, julienned and cooked to a crisp, al dente snap with chilies and acidity. Swing by for lunch to avoid the lines.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion, Chinese. "Chifa" is a term referring to a delicious mashup of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines. If the green velvet chairs and zebra-print walls aren't enough of a clue, look to the team who isn't shy about anything.The succinct menu pulls from family recipes and childhood memories to pack in flavor at every turn. Start easy with Japanese sea bream soaking in an orange and lime sauce, before moving on to char siu, starring pork cheek finished on a wood-fire grill—it's the stuff of barbecue dreams. Your visit would be incomplete without the lomo saltado, featuring tender chunks of filet mignon and sauteed onions coated in an umami-rich gravy and served on a pile of French fries. If, by some off chance, you’re still hungry, finish with a black sesame-cheesecake tart.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This cozy subterranean space feels like an undiscovered hideaway, but the secret is offcially out. Though waits can be long, the helpful staff always goes the extra mile to steer guests through a rotating menu of complex shared plates.Familiar favorites and seasonal specials make for a festive spread of adventurous, yet universally pleasing dishes, like roasted plantains set over a layer of cottage cheese and topped with salsa macha (made from sesame seeds and peppery dressed watercress). Achiote-marinated beef empanadas with a habanero-spiced pineapple tatemada salsa show an in-depth understanding of flavors; while peanut butter empanadas—primed for dipping in Oaxacan chocolate sauce and dulce de leche—take a childhood delight to new heights.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. It takes a village to feed a big group, and this laid-back spot is a favorite with families. A stylish makeover featured a sleek front bar, contemporary chandeliers and dramatic Chinese art, but one look at the scorching-hot menu options—think spicy Sichuan frog and flaky sautéed fish with pickled chili peppers—confirms the authenticity factor.Skip the Hunan, Mandarin and Cantonese offerings in favor of the Sichuan specialties like dry-fried, bone-in chicken laced with ground chilies and numbing peppercorns. And be sure to order the five-spice hot and spicy pork shoulder. A house specialty, this mouthwatering dish is fork- (or chopstick) tender and rests atop a deliciously piquant chili-oil jus with baby bok choy, scallions and garlic.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. For a change of pace in bustling Koreatown, Cho Dang Gol offers the barbecue-weary an opportunity to explore some of this nation’s more rustic cooking. Soft tofu is the specialty of the house and for fitting reason. But, bubbling casseroles and spicy stews are equally heartwarming. The menu also offers favorites like cod roe omelet, eggplant rice, flaky pajeon, satisfying bibimbap and marinated meats. A sautéed tofu trio with pork belly is stir-fried with glassy sweet potato noodles and kimchi, in an excellent sweet and spicy red pepper sauce. The interior has a simple, homey appeal—its cozy dining room is simply decorated with close-knit wood tables.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. You’ll almost always find a line stretching out the door of this Sichuan superstar, which has rocked Sunset Park with its sharp renderings of Chengdu classics. The two-story space is light on amenities, with rustic wooden tables and short, backless stools, but the earpiece-wearing staff is as adept and meticulous as the food itself—and happy to dispense menu guidance to novices.While many associate Sichuan fare with buckets of numbing chili oil, these chefs tend to go light on the spice, letting complex flavors shine in dishes like whole fish slathered with sweet peppers or slivered pork in a vinegary garlic sauce. If the burn is still unbearable, a pitcher of fresh watermelon juice and platter of flaky wok-tossed pineapple fried rice will set you right.

Bib Gourmand • Cuban. What started out as a small café has grown overnight into this full-scale, Coconut Grove essential. All credit is due to Chef Michael Beltran who runs this terrific Cuban diner, fitted with dangling greenery and cozy booths. Truly, if this kitchen were a car, it would break the speed limit, as the team hurries about—opening early, closing late and cooking with panache.One could make a meal out of the oxtail ajiaco alone, a satisfying Colombian stew that cures all ills. But then you wouldn’t have room for the several towering sandwiches, served on fluffy Cuban bread. No meal is complete without at least one of their guava- and cream-cheese pastelitos. Their warm, flaky pastry alone will guarantee a return visit.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Regional Cuisine. This longstanding restaurant in idyllic Irvington is a rather special place. Tucked along Main Street and framed by windows, it is bright and welcoming, thanks to mustard-yellow walls and art, and hand-blown glass light fixtures. A small, inlaid-tile bar out front welcomes one and all to dine on a wonderful, flavor-rich carte from Chef/co-owner Navjot Arora. Local, organic produce star in such complex, boldly spiced dishes as bhindi masala (imbued with tangy amchoor). Chana masala reaches delicious heights when paired with a sweet and nutty Peshawari naan, and pulu rasam, a lentil-based tomato and tamarind soup, and lamb keema pao, a spiced ground lamb dish, are two recent highlights. Mango chutney clearly shines here— so luscious, it may as well be jarred and sold.

Bib Gourmand • African. Growing up in Houston as the child of Nigerian immigrants, Chef/owner Ope Amosu always wanted to showcase Nigerian and West African cuisine. Enter ChòpnBlọk, a small stand inside of The Post. It's casual but stylish, showcasing traditional African decor complemented by books and vinyls.Jollof rice, coconut curry and rice bowls steal the spotlight, and whether it's rice with peanut stew, jollof jambalaya or rice with stewed plantains, West African flavors are at the forefront. The golden bowl is a delicious blend of smoky jollof jambalaya, motherland curry, yaji vegetables and stewed plantains with chicken or shrimp. Polo club suya, or grilled beef skewers dusted with yaji peanut pepper spice, are tender, nutty and spicy. Don't sleep on the plantain bread in crème anglaise

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Milanese. Set in a converted home in the heart of Barrio Logan, this warm and welcoming osteria is headed by Chef Mario Cassineri. The quaint former living room now hosts a deli counter (where your bill will be settled) but tables in the welcoming, tree-lined courtyard are most coveted. Despite their limited space, the kitchen team turns out an impressive menu, with more than a dozen handmade pastas (three of them gluten-free). As a freebie, you’ll get to sample the feather-light focaccia with a spicy, savory mascarpone-ricotta dip, but the decadently cheesy mushroom flan and delicate olive-flecked tuna tartare are well worth their modest prices.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Pizza. A pleasant contrast to the sleek new spots around town, this dining room's country-style curtains and front porch are a ticket to another era—and a hot ticket at that, since tables are hard to come by. Indeed, this Yountville gem could pass off as a John Wayne film set, with its wood-framed, 1916-era grocery look. Blistered, puffy crusts boast a tangy flavor of fermentation and a hint of smoke from the fire, an excellent vehicle for hearty toppings like crispy cabbage leaves paired with thinly sliced pancetta and melty gouda. House-made pasta, like chitarra with 'nduja sausage, clams and pea tendrils, are nearly as enticing, and shareable mains, like a hefty pork chop Milanese, should not be overlooked.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, American. The Hogsalt restaurant group isn’t known for restraint and this is certainly true of its latest venture—a saucy, Italian-American looker that goes full-speed ahead in its charming, throwback setting, with bold flavors and hearty portions.Pastas are made in-house, and first timers will want to sample the lasagna Bolognese rotolo, a creative riff on the classic and far lighter than it sounds. Coal-roasted half chicken with slow-roasted garlic, fried oregano and jus is a favorite, and of course, there must be dessert, especially that booze- heavy and decadent tiramisu.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. The pink building with green trim is the first sign that Cobi's will charm you, and then there's the dining room, where frilly, floral touches (Pink wallpaper! Mismatched tables and chairs!) and a patio with more flowers set the scene for a lively atmosphere. Discover Thai and Malaysian delights along with other influences on this broad Southeast Asian menu. Start with dumplings, satay or curry puffs, those crispy triangular shells filled with curried split peas and potatoes sided by pickled onion and tamarind ketchup. From there, pick a curry or a wood-grilled main dish such as grilled prawns in a ginger and yellow bean sauce. You won't go wrong with scallops on the half shell or butter chicken with tomato masala, while prix fixe options include a smattering of dishes selected by the chef.

Bib Gourmand • American, Cajun. Set within a corner of a large warehouse in the Central Business District, Cochon charms with exposed brick and wood-paneled walls, black floors with rust accents, and a mix of tables, booths and banquettes. It's Southern food at its finest here, where you'll find everything from wood-fired oysters to fried alligator. Order a drink from their wide selection of whiskey, rye and bourbon, then settle in for a snack like chili-dusted cracklins with Steen's cane syrup. Main dish hits include chicken and house-made andouille sausage gumbo loaded with flavor, or rabbit and dumplings, a comforting recipe from the chef's great-grandmother. The delightful offerings continue through to the end, with pineapple upside down cake and apple gateau among the tempting desserts.

Bib Gourmand • Deli, American. How does one possibly decide at Donald Link’s beloved butcher and deli? Open since 2009, the nose-to-tail charcuterie program is impressive, and one could make a meal out of thin slices of mortadella and gorgeous wedges of head cheese. But it would be a mistake to fill up just on appetizers and miss the many sandwiches heading your way. A superb muffuletta layered with house meats and an olive salad stands as one of the city’s very best. It could feed two. The Cubano, meanwhile, features thin slices of wonderfully smoky pork and ham bound with melty Swiss cheese. There’s also “Le Pig Mac.” From the fresh-baked bread to the meats to the chips, this well-honed restaurant nails down the details and doesn’t cut a single corner in the process.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Run, don’t walk, to this charming spot. Nestled into a breezy locale just a few blocks from the Pacific, this modern trattoria packs a big culinary punch, thanks largely to the considerable talent of Chef/owner Stefano De Lorenzo (of Piccolo). On the highly focused Italian menu, expect to find a fragrant soup of the day; a few heartwarming antipasti; as well as a fair amount of beautifully executed pastas, made by hand at a station located front and center in the space. Favorites may include tender calamarata, tossed in a smooth and bright tomato sauce, dotted with oregano, creamy stracciatella and a drizzle of quality olive oil.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. For bold and zesty Mexican food crafted with pristine ingredients, Berkeleyites pack this industrial-chic hot spot, where an excellent cocktail program and an extensive tequila and mezcal selection keep things buzzing. The large flat tortilla griddles for which Comal is named are on full display in the open kitchen, while a covered and heated back patio draws locals for year-round outdoor diningFryer-fresh warm tortilla chips paired with perfect guacamole are irresistible; summon an order as you peruse other options like the refreshing white shrimp ceviche and earthy hen-of-the-woods mushroom quesadilla. Just make sure that those smoky wood-grilled rock cod tacos, with creamy avocado aïoli and spicy cabbage slaw, are on your must-order list.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. It can be difficult to snag a table at this buzzy Korean fried chicken restaurant, but the effort is rewarded with a polished, high-energy experience. While there are a few à la carte options, the signature move is the “bucket” feast, which begins with a cup of chicken consommé and unfolds over multiple rounds of gluten-free fried chicken served with house sauces, crisp banchan and cold perilla seed noodles, before finishing with frozen-yogurt soft serve. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly clean-eating, never greasy or heavy. Champagne plays a starring role on the drinks list, with a broad range of bottles and by-the-glass pours. Stick to the bucket for solid value, though optional splurges like caviar-topped bites can push the bill higher.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Seafood. The Santa Barbara Public Market is full of alluring eateries, but after your first taste of this charming taco stand, you’ll want to pledge your heart. Chef/owner Ramon Velazquez mastered the craft of handmade tortillas and zesty salsas at the feet of his Guadalajaran mother and grandmother, but he also has a few tricks of his own that often involve additions of delightfully unique local produce.Standouts include a cheesy, griddled taco piled with grilled octopus, white shrimp and avocado, as well as a veggie-packed Oaxaca cheese quesadilla bursting at the seams with confit tomatoes, broccolini, and radishes. Definitely say yes to all three of the different salsas handed out with your order.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Chef Tim Lovero has fashioned a singular take on the neighborhood gem at this contemporary spot in Audubon Park. Step inside and feel instantly at home, thanks in part to a warm, first bite from the kitchen delivered moments after arrival. It's just the beginning of an enjoyable meal crafted from their ever-changing, shared plates-style menu. Warm potato naan is served with whipped chicken skin butter and marmalade; tilefish is given a cioppino interpretation with crispy sourdough; but dessert is the scene stealer, taking the classic fries and a milkshake combination and turning it on its head with panna cotta, crispy sunchoke, cocoa nibs, and diced French fries.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. New Yorkers have restaurateur Cristina Castañeda to thank for this spirited and deeply warm Mexican spot, rooted in the traditions of western Mexico and inspired by Jalisco's ranchos. The dining room is festive and welcoming, and the energy of the room is buoyed by families, friends and celebratory tables. Covacha's agave-focused bar, stocked with tequila, mezcal and a page of boutique agave wines, is a fitting companion to the food.The menu is consice, with no filter and no shortcuts. Begin with crisp chicken quesabirrias, dipped into rich birria broth, then move to barbacoa tapatìa: slow-roasted beef shank served with tortillas and brothy beans for a build-your-own experience that's unapologetically messy and full of flavor. Portions are generous, prices fair and the cooking genuine rather than overworked.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. Named after the Zapotec god of corn, it’s only fitting that Chef Johnny Curiel's second venture should be a celebration of maize in its many guises. Corn is flown in from Mexico and nixtamalized in house before being transformed into a variety of preparations, from tender tortillas to lightly fried quesadillas, matched with the likes with juicy cochinita pibil made from pork collar, or tender oyster mushroom, poblano rajas and queso fresco. A hickory-fired hearth adds another dimension to the cooking, whether in lively salsas or gently warmed scallops. A handsome bar provides an assortment of enticing cocktails, and even here the central theme makes an appearance, with a singularly delicious margarita featuring elote mezcal and corn liqueur.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Chef/owner Luis "Beto" Robledo's East Austin food truck offers a simple but satisfying promise: Mexico City-style tacos. Order at the counter, then find a seat in the shaded picnic area shared with other food trucks.This place is best known for their suadero taco, served simply with onion and cilantro. The cachete, or beef cheek, is a close second, but if you're seeking something less meaty, the mushroom taco seals the deal. The meats are cooked in a traditional chorizera pan with a raised center, and the tortillas are equally impressive. These bright yellow masa tortillas are paper thin with loads of flavor. Sides, like grilled onions or beans, round out the satisfying meal.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Cucina Urbana, like the other siblings in the Urban Kitchen Group family, is an amiable place that promises a good time. It’s casual, festive and popular with the locals—the kind of spot where nearly every table is filled on a Tuesday afternoon.The California-Italian menu has seasonal offerings, such as a burrata and stone fruit salad, as well as a variety of brick oven pizzas with playful twists, like a pepperoni pizza with Calabrian chili and a honey drizzle. Fresh pastas, including the torchio alla norma with eggplant, chili flakes and ricotta salata with basil, are always a good bet. Wine is available by the bottle at retail price with a corkage fee.

Bib Gourmand • French, American. Set in a little bungalow that’s as cute as a cupcake, this brunch-only, walk-in, counter-style bistro off the St. Mary's strip can do no wrong. Snag a seat at the counter and watch as the open kitchen dabbles in affordable French luxury with the likes of proper omelets and a whole lot of butter, hollandaise, truffles, and caviar offered at every turn. The menu is the right size. Think doughnuts dusted in powdered sugar that rival the best beignets or sandwiches stacked with smoked brisket, egg, and cheese served on beautifully bronzed rolls made in house. One unexpected sleeper hit is the breakfast potatoes, which outclass all other versions by miles. A chalkboard out front encourages diners to try a “Champagne breakfast.” It’s a perfect idea.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Portuguese. Portuguese and Indian flavors live in harmony at da Gama Canteen, located in Houston Heights. Named after the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, this restaurant from Chefs Shiva and Rick Di Virgilio draws inspiration from the Portuguese Indian territories of Goa, East Africa and Portugal. Expect a tapas-style menu displaying a fascinating fusion of the two cultures with bold and vibrant flavors. Must-orders include chana masala, or braised chickpeas and potatoes served with basmati rice, and beef mishkaki, an East African-style marinated beef tenderloin with fried yuca, kachumber and raita. A piping hot pastel de nata with flaky shell and rich, creamy custard is the perfect send-off.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • American, Regional Cuisine. Texans are known around the world for their inimitable hometown pride, but Chef/owner Jesse Griffiths takes his affection for the Lone Star state to another level at Dai Due, where nearly everything, from produce and meat to olive oil and wine, is sourced from Texas. Brunch is available but it's the evenings when this place shines. Walk past the entrance filled with tempting baked goods and prepared meats to find a rustic back room perfect for hosting the supper club-style service. Skilled butchers tackle everything from wild boar and antelope to goat, and Chef Janie Ramirez's plates are impressively offbeat. Hits include the cold meat board with antelope salami and wild boar and dill pickle terrine, as well as the smoked pork Porterhouse chop with sauerkraut, Bavarian mustard, and chutney.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. First things first: doors open at 11:30 A.M. here and close a few hours later. It’s so small a window you know they’ll pack the house. And indeed they do, with lines forming long before doors open at this popular Taiwanese restaurant.Once inside, things move fast. A concise menu hangs above the cash register, so take a look before taking a seat. Three surefire hits include the fiery beef noodle soup (one of the best renditions in town); the sesame dry noodles; and the beef tripe and pork shank. The food comes quickly—you won't need to ask for water and you'll have a pot of tea with a Styrofoam cup delivered promptly to your table. All said and done, you’ll be out in 20 minutes—but talking about your meal for weeks to come.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Italian. With the flick of a switch, Logan Square’s beloved pasta restaurant has found a new home just down Milwaukee Avenue. The move is a serious upgrade into a space nearly four times its original footprint. Flooded with sunlight, fitted with a comfortable bar and sporting a private dining room, the restaurant has no shortage of space. And much to everyone’s delight, house-made pastas like pappardelle with mushroom ragu or rigatoni with pork ragu and fermented tomato remain prime attractions. Onion dip with house-made ruffles is still on the menu and still a must-order. A bakery in the back gives this team even more room to play with sweets, and diners can choose between a dazzling selection of pastries, ice creams and sorbet at the meal’s end.

Bib Gourmand • American. Open since 1960, this cash-only institution in northwest Philadelphia remains an essential stop for a proper cheesesteak. The setup is simple: Order at the window, wait to hear your name and eventually make your way to one of the few nearby tables on the sidewalk. The menu is lengthy, but everyone is here for the same thing. A long, soft hoagie roll arrives packed with tender chopped steak bound with melty Cheez Whiz and topped with a smattering of fried onions. Crushed hot peppers are an optional but necessary complement to this indulgent sandwich.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Regional Cuisine. Rasika vets, Dante Datta and Chef Suresh Sundas, are behind this much-anticipated Indian operation. The corner space, flaunting a windowed façade and white-ringed Sanskrit logo, is an instant attention grabber. Weather permitting, a large sidewalk increases the dining capacity.Inside, at the bar-counter set abuzz with vibrant tunes, the kitchen team takes classic Indian cuisine in a novel direction. Is that blue cheese on your tandoor-grilled chicken kebabs? Yes, indeed. Matched with sour cherry reduction and cashews, it's as enticing a preparation as the boldly spiced minced bison momos. Nariyal lamb shank is rich and robust with saffron, chili and coconut. Sop up the heady sauce with light basmati rice and call it a night.

Bib Gourmand • Creole, Creative. The old adage "Never judge a book by its cover" couldn't be more apt for this operation, which seems a most unlikely candidate for "serious food." It's vast and spread over three levels, but when you're seated in that perfect nook with a buzzy vibe and tantalizing cocktails, you'll start to get the drift.Expect a delicious tapestry of New Orleans dishes—with zero fuss and maximum flavor. Make a hearty start with fresh-baked bread and cultured Poirier’s cane butter. Then dive into a platter of silky oysters Dauphine, tailed by blackened soft-shell crab with creamed Prairie Ronde rice. Carry on carb loading at dessert with dark chocolate crémeux and vanilla rice pudding—you won't be sorry.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Californian. If you’ve got eyes for pies, you’ll want to make a beeline to this chic and simple Italian hot spot. The open space is centered around a big, blazing oven and crowds arrive early to score every last no-reservations seat. Del Popolo may have gotten its start as a food truck, but one bite of their wood-fired pizzas and it's clear how it earned its address. Chewy, blistered and deliciously caramelized, the crusts arrive laden with toppings both traditional (mozzarella, crushed tomato and basil) and California cool (roasted winter squash, mascarpone, spring onions). Don’t sleep on the antipasti either, since the starters are first-rate. The lightly charred carrots set atop house-made yogurt and garnished with crispy red quinoa are dizzyingly delicious.

Bib Gourmand • American, Pizza. In a city where cheesesteak traditions are everything, this restaurant in Northern Liberties goes above and beyond the norm by baking their own bread. Sporting a crackly crust, sesame-seeded sourdough arrives with finely seared and salted chopped steak tossed with fried onions, bound with creamy Cooper Sharp American cheese, and, ideally, topped with a long hot pepper for requisite heat. The kitchen also stretches dough into thin pizzas. Consider the Brooklyn-style grandma pie with its buttery, crisp crust, bright tomato sauce and fresh basil. Simple tables in the back provide a fair amount of seating.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, Duck Specialities. It’s all about the duck—whole roasted in a clay pot—at this dining delight. And, since the very best things take time, seat-of-the-pants types must know that this platter requires a bit of of planning: order at least a day in advance. However, upon entering this Koreatown gem, one may look forward to being rewarded with a generously portioned dish to dream about for weeks. Stuffed with chestnuts, sweet potatoes, rice and herbs, then wrapped and roasted for hours, the bronzed beauty is plated before your eyes. A spicy dipping sauce and light broth with greens elevates the preparation to epic heights. There's no better way to enjoy this festive feast than with a group, but walk-ins can savor the signature smoked treat, as it's available at all hours.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. This rousing Indian restaurant in Essex Market is refreshingly unapologetic with its complex spices, fierce heat levels and inspired preparations of more unusual items (kidneys, anyone?). Dhamaka, which means “explosion” in Hindi, is a bold love letter to the country’s more rustic dishes, many of which are drawn from the owner’s childhood. Where else have you had smoky goat belly flecked with coriander seeds and wrapped in cedar wood? How often does your mutton come in a clay pot filled with a deliciously dark chili oil and an entire bulb of roasted garlic? Other highlights include house-made paneer tikka, sizzling Kashmiri lamb loin cut tableside and a butter garlic crab served over rice. Tables are comically small but bring friends anyway.

Bib Gourmand • Indonesian, Thai and Vietnamese. This industrial Indonesian eatery is every bit as easy-breezy as its Oceanside hometown—imagine cheeky murals, dim lighting and a roll-up garage door entrance. But lest you consider it a divey drinking hole, be advised you’ll find some serious cooking here. Excellent nasi goreng combines fried rice with shrimp, pork belly, chicken and the yolk of a sunny egg, while charred eggplant with smoked tomato sambal and crispy fried shallots is a textural (and flavor-forward) delight.All that spice is sure to put you in the mood for a drink, and their creative cocktails deliver, with unique low-ABV beverages showcasing house-fermented shrubs and other elixirs. On weekends, brunch is replete with inventive, crowd-pleasing eats, like a chili-lime mango tartine.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dim Sum. This wildly popular Chinatown spot is still packed to the gills most days, and for good reason: the made-to-order dim sum and Cantonese fare remain consistently fresh and satisfying. Reservations help avoid the weekend rush, when service can verge on chaotic and shared tables are the norm, but even then, the pace is part of the experience. The broad, photo-driven menu makes ordering straightforward, with standouts like rice rolls with roast duck and scallion, crisp-bottomed pan-fried pork dumplings and comforting soup dumplings. Prices run a bit higher than some competitors, but generous portions, reliable quality and longevity make it worth it.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Meanwhile Brewing is home to a few food trucks, but Chef Damien Brockway's is the one to beat. It's barbecue, but certainly not your grandaddy's barbecue. Instead, there's more than a hint of new school in this cooking, with the chef's African diaspora inspiration coming through in the menu. There is a stern nose to tail and root to stem ethos here, where you'll find everything from pulled pork and brisket to chicken smoked using pecan wood and mixed hardwood. Classic pork sausage flecked with red pepper flakes impresses with its dialed-in flavor, but it's the chicken with chile vinegar butter that is the true standout. A rotating list of sides may include burnt ends with black-eyed peas and smoky spice-rubbed peanuts.

Bib Gourmand • Israeli. The colorful, casual sibling to Zahav and Laser Wolf does a roaring trade in downtown Philadelphia — and rightly so. There’s no need to wrangle for reservations or arrive before doors open to grab a seat. Instead, one could wander in off the street to find a vibrant café awash in bright colors and dangling greenery. The food too is much of the same; hummus with brown butter, crispy garlic and urfa is a classic start and comes with fresh-baked pita bread. Chicken schnitzel with sumac onions is a solid follow-up, as is the pita stuffed with fried eggplant and egg. Heartier appetites should look to the za’atar chicken, which is roasted properly and served with green tahini, rice and a cucumber salad.

Bib Gourmand • Deli, Creole. There are some places that have earned cult status for their offerings, and Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar, opened since 1918, is one of them. Here in their humble sandwich shop on a corner of Uptown, they serve a small menu of sandwiches. They're not just any sandwiches, of course. These are po'boys, and they're legendary. Walk in, chat with the friendly staff and place your order for a shrimp po'boy—it's what everyone else is here for too. Battered, fried shrimp bathed in a hot sauce are tucked inside Leidenheimer bread with shredded lettuce, mayo and a pickle. You'll be back for another soon enough. - Friendly order at the counter, take a seat and they’ll call your name to come pick up at the kitchen.- PLEASE FEATURE- Shrimp Po'boy -

Bib Gourmand • Ramen, Japanese. Enter Chef/owner Sean "Sonny" Nguyen's trendy ramen haven and you'll find two rooms dressed with concrete floors, a marble bar and wood panels set aglow by a starburst light fixture. The second room cradles the bulk of the crowd. As the name illustrates, this chef makes his culinary "dreams come true" by dint of a classic-meets-creative menu. Beyond the small plates lies the star item—ramen. Creations, like the Ritchie Rich and Curry, are full of bold, memorable flavors and certainly worth a slurp. Tokyo ramen with shoyu chicken broth, fried chicken thigh and duck fat is a sensory feat. Couple it with blistered shishitos for a delicious touch—and bit of crunch.

Bib Gourmand • Creole, American. The legacy of Leah Chase shines as bright as ever. In the 1960s, her dining room hosted countless Civil Rights activists and leaders. Today, it is under the care of her grandson Chef Edgar Dook Chase IV, who continues the family tradition of cooking heartwarming Creole cuisine. Gumbo, red beans and rice, and golden fried chicken strike honest chords alongside mustard greens and peach cobbler. A dazzling collection of African-American art adorns walls painted red, with red patterned carpet and red-striped chairs to boot. All the while, congenial matriarchs take their time walking by each and every table. The total effect of groundbreaking history, remarkable sincerity, and wonderful cooking is something that few restaurants can claim.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dumplings. You can try the pan-fried baos, poke at the crispy green onion pancakes and sample the hand-pulled noodles, but please, read the room—and the awning that wraps around the building. This casual eatery excels in the delicate art of soup dumplings, which arrive with supple skins and spoonfuls of delicious broth far clearer and more distilled than most. From open till close, chefs in the back wrap and fold everything by hand, and unlike most kitchens that are content to offer just a typical pork variety, fillings here include chicken, beef, and our favorite, a Sichuan-inspired numbing pork.A prime corner location in the Theater District lures in the crowds, who clearly work up an appetite by walking by table after table of bamboo steamers stacked to the sky.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. It’s a wonder anybody can find this place. Right off the Pomona Freeway, hidden in the back of a Rowland Heights shopping center stacked with restaurants, this Taiwanese favorite lives up to its name. Soft piano music fills the elegant space, which can be unusually relaxed, almost bordering on peaceful. On smooth warehouse floors, the tables are generously spaced, but the menu is like a tome, dense with a wealth of seafood preparations, delicately flavored consommés and classic rice dishes. Three cup chicken braised with garlic, ginger and basil is an obvious order, as is the fantastic salty fish and chicken fried rice, the grains glossy and puffed in a hot wok. Regulars know to ask about dragon whiskers, a seasonal green that rounds out the meal.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. When dining at Chef Carlos Aparicio’s colorful little spot in South Philly, you need a strategy, and you need friends. Adobo-seared tuna with salsa macha verde and hibiscus-habanero aguachile is as refreshing as it looks. Rabbit tinga tostadas make for a good first impression as well. These two dishes alone could pass for a full meal, but then you’d miss the main event. The heart of this menu revolves around hearty cemitas, Puebla-style sandwiches stacked high and built on sesame-seeded buns made in-house. Share these serious sandwiches and leave room for an order of flour tortillas, which arrive lacy and griddled. Try the marinated pork (arabes) paired with chipotle salsa.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Lovers of regional Mexican food will swoon for this laid-back charmer, which offers full-throttle fare made with quality ingredients. The colorful little building has a strange layout (order at the counter, then pass through the kitchen to dine on the patio), but it still draws a large following—expect to chat with fellow diners hungry for intel on the day’s best dishes. Entrées shift with the seasons, but the preparations are always expert: try the halibut ceviche with house-made chips or the red mole tamales chockablock with chicken and just a touch of masa. The Bohemia beer-battered fish tacos featuring handmade tortillas are a must, as are the addictive poblano-tomatillo nachos verdes. Of course, spice fans can't get enough of the crispy chilaquiles.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. This charming café, sheltered within a shopping enclave, hosts a loyal following at outdoor tables shaded by age-old oak trees. Inside, the kitchen team works out of a glass-walled kiosk, dressed up with blue-and-white tile as well as neatly lined cans and bottles.The menu is an enticing offering of breakfast fare, featuring organic eggs that support Turkish mezzes, manti and savory pastries like borek. Baked in-house, this burnished coil is stuffed with spinach, sprinkled with sesame seeds and garnished with cherry tomatoes. The izmir kofte arrives in a mini ceramic dish filled with beef meatballs baked in tomato sauce alongside batons of roasted potato. A single charred jalapeño adds the perfect bit of heat to each mouthful.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Bakery. This indie hot spot with a retro-chic décor and cool staff has many things going for it. First, there’s the team, who’ve already struck gold on the dining scene. Then there’s the setting, inside the former Heller’s Bakery, which was a local institution. Finally, there’s the menu starring contemporary dishes with a focus on fermentation.The café offering sandwiches and pastries by day is beloved, but it's at dinner when this kitchen truly comes to life, turning out quirky food with enticing flavor profiles. Beautiful orange carrots dusted with shio-koji is coupled with rye miso for a crowning kickoff; then Nashville hot duck matched with a buttermilk biscuit is all heart and soul. Desserts, like the Thai iced tea-tres leches, are bona fide works of art.

Bib Gourmand • French, American. There is no such thing as a bad day at Elvie’s. This handsome restaurant runs with all the class, ease, and heart of a bistro. You could drop in for a morning pastry, savor a cheery lunch, or stop by the marble bar for a snack of duck fat French fries, a few oysters, and a round of cocktails. Dinner is a more upscale affair. Start with a stack of superb little gems dressed in a smoked oyster dressing. Everyone orders the redfish almondine — and rightly so. The trifecta of almonds, brown butter, and capers works wonders. A light citrus soufflé is a quiet finale or swing for the fences with a chocolate brownie crowned with a boulder of vanilla ice cream and set in a pool of salted caramel. It’s indulgent, fun, and irresistible.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • American, Contemporary. Some of Austin's most popular bars and restaurants are here on Rainey Street, and Emmer & Rye is no exception. This place is always packed and humming with a crowd, both outside on the breezy patio and indoors in the contemporary, inviting dining room. The new American menu is well-designed and tightly focused. From the in-house fermentation program and freshly ground heirloom grains figuring prominently on the menu to strong ties with many of Texas's small farms, there's a commitment to sustainability here. Yellowfin tuna crudo tucked with strawberries and cucumber is a refreshing opener before tucking into a plate of house-made cacio e pepe. Velvety and satisfying, it's been on the menu since the very beginning.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. It's a tiny space, but Owners Hope Webb and Walter Cortado have fashioned a likable space with a modern bent at Estrellita. Equally small but mighty is the kitchen, which turns out Filipino classics and meat-forward dishes. There are always specials to keep an eye out for, and patience is key, as the kitchen team is often handling to-go and catering orders simultaneously. It's walk-in only, so pull up a chair to enjoy roasted pork belly lechon cooked Cebu-style, with crispy skin and rolled with lemongrass, green onion and garlic. Vegetable and beef versions of lumpia are available; the beef delivers three crispy lumpia filled with Angus beef sautéed with green beans, bean sprouts, celery and onions for dish that is both unexpected and tender.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Californian. Chef Srijith Gopinathan has struck gold once again with this swanky Menlo Park sensation, drawing in crowds with his inventive blend of regional Indian cuisine with a fresh Californian twist. To illustrate this singular approach, take a flaky, paratha-like flatbread filled with Dungeness crab and paired with a rich, complex sauce featuring fennel, poppy seeds, and mint. Wood-fired grills add an additional layer of interest, providing a robust char to the likes of lemon-grass scented gulf shrimp, chili-glazed celeriac and pineapple kebabs, and whole sea bream, as well as lending a subtle smoke to sauces. The compelling balance of flavors makes each dish stand on its own, but an assortment of carefully chosen wines and clever cocktails certainly doesn’t hurt matters.

Bib Gourmand • Californian, American. With its elegant design and backdrop of the sparkling sea, this "fabled" spot doesn't have to try very hard to win fans. And yet, it never rests solely on its good looks. The room is packed with an unmistakable hum of happy diners diving into delicious pub grub. The comprehensive menu offers up a handful of delicious, inventive vegetable items such as the roasted cauliflower with green harissa, curry caramelized onions and almonds. You'll want to order everything, but don't skip the ambitious but well-executed 12-hour Kurobuta porchetta with polenta, romanesco, Calabrian chili, chimichurri, and textbook-perfect smoked braising jus. Dessert is worth a look, especially when brioche bread pudding with blueberry compote and crème anglaise is on offer.

Bib Gourmand • Deli. The Famous 4th Street Delicatessen, a Philly institution since 1923, sits on the corner of 4th and Bainbridge Streets in Queen Village. Long known for its towering corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, the menu is a treasure trove of beloved Jewish deli classics, starting with a lineup of hefty sandwiches like Reubens, roast beef and pastrami, each served with a choice of sides like potato salad, chips or a potato pancake. It also stretches into appetizers, salads, soups, cheesesteaks, traditional dinners, smoked fish and a full breakfast spread. Everything is made with a sense of pride; the meat is generously portioned, well-seasoned and tender, and the sandwiches are stacked with care.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. If you’re staying away from carbs, then you best steer clear of this restaurant too. But for everyone else, this tiny but mighty kitchen in South Philly is impossible to resist. Once a butcher shop that spanned three generations, the restaurant under Marc Vetri delivers a tight menu of handmade pastas. Think pitch-perfect cacio e pepe with tonnarelli or cloud-like orbs of ricotta gnocchi bathed in brown butter. Do you have room for mezzelune stuffed with sweetbreads and veal? Of course you do. End with a simple and satisfying scoop of ice cream.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. It's part fish market, part casual spot here, where a single communal table and stools lined up at the windows await guests. Order at the back counter from a compact, seafood-focused menu listing oysters, crudos, sandwiches and soups. This is not your typical fried fish shack, though, and many of the dishes have a Southern slant to them. Peel and eat shrimp is a good standby, while tuna melts are leveled up. Specials driven by the daily catch are always a good bet, but the house staple—the blackened grouper sandwich—is a winner. A thick piece of generously spiced, blackened grouper is draped over a buttered, toasted seeded bun with Florida sauce, pickled peppers, ripe tomato and lettuce for something far from fussy but totally spot on. Gumbo is flavorful and hearty.

Bib Gourmand • International. A kitchen on a mission, Flavors from Afar works with refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants to highlight recipes from their native countries. Eritrean, Lebanese, Navajo, Guatemalan, Haitian – the rotation is constant, and the culinary reach of the effort is vast. A recent feature on Indo-Fijian cuisine included a creamy onion and coconut milk stew followed by a finely spiced goat pulao enlivened with cardamom, cloves and star anise. This is authentic homestyle cooking in the best of ways, a spotlight on undiscovered talent and a striking reminder of the many flavors the world has to offer. A portion of proceeds benefit the Tiyya Foundation, which supports immigrants and displaced Indigenous communities.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. It’s always a fiesta at this lively spot on Cow Hollow’s main drag, where you’re as likely to find young families sharing a bowl of guac as you are Marina girls getting tipsy on mezcal margaritas. Patterned tiles, bright murals and chill beats create a modern vibe, and though you may have to wait (only limited reservations are available), the friendly staff will make it worth your while.Flores is among the city’s best upscale Mexican spots—with the bonuses of heftier portions and a lower price tag. You’ll be able to taste the difference in the handmade corn tortillas that encase an oozy huitlacoche quesadilla, and the tender, citrusy carnitas. Save room for churros: the spicy “Mexican hot chocolate” dipping sauce is well worth the calories.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino, Contemporary. Janice Dulce is behind this popular Filipino restaurant that began as a pop-up. Tucked into the Temescal neighborhood, the space may be diminutive but it is ingeniously designed—with whimsical wallpaper and a relaxed, island vibe. Cozy up to the bar while you wait—a situation made infinitely more bearable with a stirring cocktail in hand. The menu is loaded with keepers, but keep your options open for tantalizing specials, like sweet and sour sinigang with pork, eggplant and daikon; or Janice’s Ribs, slow-roasted with coffee, coconut beer and banana ketchup. Suman, a steamed rice cake in a banana leaf, is then served with coconut crumble, coconut sauce and mango for a none-too-sweet treat.Weekends are brunch only.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. The roots of Chef Karen Akunowicz’s pasta empire trace back to this welcoming restaurant in South Boston, where she draws inspiration from her time in Italy. Everyone from parents in for a quick meal with their kids to younger couples just getting their evening started take to the lively space fit with a long bar up front and banquettes further back. Meals must begin with warm pieces of focaccia stuffed with taleggio or, for something a bit lighter, gnocco fritto with mortadella. Broccoli Caesar is a classic starter too. Pasta, as expected, is the main attraction. The likes of raviolo carbonara with guanciale, tagliatelle Bolognese with wild boar, and braised beef agnolotti del plin with roasted carrot butter are enormously satisfying.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Regional Cuisine. This iconic barbecue oasis in the heart of Austin needs no introduction, even further evidenced by the lines snaking out the door. Inside is simple at best, with a corrugated metal ceiling and cement floors, but it's the board above the counter that has everyone's attention anyway. Pork ribs, sausage, turkey, and pulled pork, along with a handful of sandwiches and classic sides (think cole slaw salad and pinto beans) are what's on offer, but you won't ever go wrong with the brisket. Sliced to order, it's wrapped in butcher paper and weighed before being placed on the famous blue tray. Tender and smoky with flavorful marbling and a dark char, it's worth the hours-long wait. Pair it with a cold local beer and it's the perfect duo.

Bib Gourmand • American. Located in the Krog Street Market, what this contemporary space lacks in size it makes up for in charm. The concept is straightforward: sandwiches of all varieties from burgers and oyster po'boys to bahn mi and cheesesteaks. Each one is messy-delicious and over the top in the best possible way, as in the pimento cheese club with house-made pimento cheese, roasted poblanos, fried green tomatoes and bacon sandwiched between bread and seared. Meanwhile, the Italian grinder with all the meats, melty provolone cheese, garlic aioli and cherry pepper relish knocks it out of the park. Of course, there must be fries, and the barbecue version, with barbecue seasoning and a white barbecue sauce for dipping, won't disappoint.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This linchpin in Rick Bayless’ empire is decidedly unique in its homage to regional Mexican cuisine and displays a cult-like devotion to local product. From the table-shaken margaritas and the molés to the warm, uplifting music, you'll likely feel you're in Mexico. The menu is ever-changing but begin with the classic Frontera ceviche, a vibrant and refreshing blend of Pacific albacore, lime, tomato, olive and cilantro. Don't miss the specialties, highlighting the flavors of Guerrero on the Pacific Coast, along with sides like roasted cauliflower with poblano crema and melted cheese. Do save room for the chocolate pecan pie.

Bib Gourmand • American. Gemma is a charming spot from the husband-and-wife team of Chef Stephen Rogers and Allison Yoder. The couple met while working at Napa Valley's Press and returned to Rogers's home state to open this intimate spot in Dallas that highlights contemporary American cooking with a seasonal focus.The evening begins with a simple sounding but sinfully delicious warm raisin scone. Fried Castelvetrano olives mixed with fragrant Texas pecans are a delight, but it's cooking like the roasted heirloom carrots or the Idaho trout almondine that make a meal here memorable. Meyer lemon tart with notes of lavender and kisses of toasted meringue is a perfect send off.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Niven Patel’s smash-hit restaurant is bound to put diners in the mood for the team's smartly spiced food with warehouse floors, mango wood tables and a wall lined with rows upon rows of spice jars.The kitchen takes no cues from its suburban locale; in fact, it features a tight menu of flavor-packed dishes made with ingredients sourced from Chef Patel’s own farm. Ghost pepper-cheddar seed naan is a fiery, puff-pastry-like riff, while yellowfin tuna bhel with avocado makes for a zesty first course. Kerala lamb with tomato and coconut is a richly satisfying effort with layered notes, soft basmati rice and meltingly tender meat.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. The name is Thai for “eat rice,” and you’ll want plenty of it to mop up every last bite of this kitchen's perfectly spicy, salty, sweet and tangy Northern Thai dishes. Operated by chef siblings, Nova and Kami Sasi, this is a fun, lively spot, with graffiti-like signage, hip-hop in the background, and colorful murals bedecking the walls. Every item is perfectly balanced, from the crunchy and subtly spiced fishcakes with cucumber-herb salad to the glorious nam khao tod, featuring crispy rice with ground chicken, pork skin, plenty of fresh ginger, cilantro and green onion.As a bonus, it’s also BYOB, so bring along a crew of friends with a couple of six-packs, and you'll be able to conquer most of the small menu—along with a few specials listed on the board.

Bib Gourmand • American. Brought to you by Jason Vincent, this fabulous and friendly restaurant is the epitome of Chicago. Its menu is a listing of familiar dishes (think onion rings, crab salad and baby back ribs), albeit drummed up with unique accents reflecting the chef’s distinctive style. The petite space is simple and lovely, with a modern-rustic décor and genuinely cozy neighborhood vibe. A chef’s counter in the back offers an up-close-and-personal kitchen experience. Kick things off with the excellent Jonah crab salad, served with soft waffle-cut potato fritters and freshly made cocktail sauce. Then move on to the “pici with chew,” where thick strands of noodles are cooked to a conservative al dente, and tossed with smoky bacon, chopped jalapeños and breadcrumbs.

Bib Gourmand • Gastropub. Doughnuts, dry-aged steaks, and house-made pastas—Hogsalt Hospitality certainly has the lockdown on this corner of River North, but it all started in 2010 with this moody and imposing retreat. The bar up front mixes cocktails to a metronomic rhythm, while the back feels more intimate with studded leather banquettes and nostalgic lighting.True to form, the restaurant excels at big plates and bold flavors. We're hooked on the fried chicken that arrives with a golden-brown crust and rich mashed potatoes. But, who then will order the beef cheek pot pie with bone marrow gravy? You won’t have room for dessert, but order it anyway. A towering slice of carrot cake with spiced cream cheese frosting and toasted coconut counts as a vegetable anyway, right?

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, American. Girl & The Goat remains a lively and consistently busy restaurant, with a dining room that hums from open to close. The energetic atmosphere is matched by a warm and welcoming tone, even as the space fills with a mix of groups, families and regulars. Appropriately rustic wooden pillars and beams connect a warren of seating areas, from elevated platforms to banquettes to dim private corner nooks. The menu is organized by primary ingredients, including a dedicated section for goat, and reflects the kitchen's signature style of bold, shareable dishes. Flavors are direct and satisfying. The kitchen's willingness to offer smaller portions for color diners is a truly thoughtful touch.

Bib Gourmand • Californian, Pizza. The setting is charmingly quaint, but don’t be fooled—this humble cottage boasts a serious culinary operation that draws in crowds rain or shine. The cozy space hinges around a wood-burning oven, which in turn serves as the springboard for a compact menu of compelling, inventive Californian cuisine overseen by Chef Ari Weiswasser. Biodynamic produce sourced from nearby Glentucky Family Farm is a mainstay, from wholesome, vibrantly fresh salads, to lightly charred, smoke-kissed roasted vegetables like sugar snap peas with truffle-chili cashew crunch. More substantial fare ranges from seasonal pizza and pasta, to whole roasted branzino and brick chicken—all of it worthy of attention. So, too, are house-made ice creams in flavors like vanilla maple bourbon.

Bib Gourmand • Ramen. The location in a run of the mill strip mall belies the cool interior at this spot named for Chef/owner Chris Teigland's mother. Inside, dark charcoal and dark wood are offset by pops of bright colors, while overhead, vibrant lanterns of different colors and sizes draw attention. The kitchen delivers serious flavor on their noodle/ramen-based menu. Kick off with a sweet and savory skewer of marinated tofu skewer served with a miso peach jam and an almond and sesame candy crumble. Ramen options run the gamut from miso bacon and brothless versions to the death wish designed for spice hounds who want the heat without sacrificing flavor. Sweets worth saving room for include the sweet crispy rice cake with smoked caramel and kasu-lime ice cream.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, American. Founded by a youthful and creative cohort, Goldee's is the name on the lips of every barbecue aficionado seeking out great brisket (among other items) in the Fort Worth area. Open just a few days a week from late morning until afternoon, one must go when the getting is this good; and it's absolutely worth the hours-long wait in the Texas sun.The brisket here, premium Black Angus beef, is cooked low and slow using post oak sourced from nearby. The meat is meltingly tender with a rich, clean flavor and needs nothing else; however, stuck between slices of homemade bread with a dab of the sweet/tart mustardy sauce is a delightful way to go. Turkey, ribs (beef and pork), and sausage round out the proteins, which can be sided by potato salad or zesty cabbage and kale slaw.

Bib Gourmand • South East Asian, Californian. Stroll into this lush, happening spot and your eyes will quickly fall on neon blue letters scrawled above the lively open kitchen: "did you eat yet?" The correct answer is "no": an empty stomach will be amply rewarded by the vibrantly flavorful cooking here. Southeast Asian flavors find unique Californian expressions in dishes like a signature orange-mango glazed fried chicken wing filled with chicken egg roll stuffing, or a Lao-style sausage with tangy pasilla pepper jaew. A version of halo halo, featuring mango jellies, shiso shaved ice and seasonal fruit, is a particular treat. Reservations go quickly during peak hours, but if you walk in early (or late), you may find a perch to dine at the bar, where you'll also find an array of creative, tropically inflected cocktails—a match made in paradise.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. There are some places that truly reflect the heart and soul of a neighborhood, and in Bushwick, it's Gordo's Cantina. Family-friendly and with something for everyone, this spot's name also ensures that portion sizes are mighty. Of course, nobody is complaining, thanks to the talents of Chef Reyna Morales, who hails from Mexico City and whose careful handling of familiar favorites goes a long way.Order the tacos tucked with crumbles of aromatic chorizo with a mild heat, while the chile relleno stuffed with creamy queso fresco and beans is a savory delight. This hangout also dishes out a satisfying mole, as seen in enchiladas stuffed with tender shredded chicken.

Bib Gourmand • Nepali, Indian. Take the short drive from downtown for a taste of Himalayan cuisine at Gorkhali Kitchen. The mirrored glass exterior means the interior is kept a secret until you're through the door but come inside to experience this place's warm hospitality.The menu is large with a Nepalese focus along with some Indian elements. Of course, there must be momo, those iconic Nepalese dumplings that are seared, pan-fried or even in jhol (soup). Chili momo filled with chicken is tossed in a fiery sauce that's not for the faint of heart. Sweet at the start, the heat builds and then finishes with a very spicy kick—perfect for heat seekers. Chicken is a popular protein that appears often on the menu, but don't shy away from the goat specialties. They're falling-off-the-bone tender and savory.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. Chic enough for the style-savvy, cheap enough for students and authentic enough for local Chinese families, Great China is one of the few Berkeley restaurants everyone can (and does) agree on. Spicehounds should look elsewhere, as the food is somewhat mild, but the ingredients are higher quality than the average Chinese spot. Kick things off with an aromatic bowl of hot and sour soup or an order of vegetarian egg rolls. Then sample generously portioned favorites like the sweet-and-spicy kung pao chicken; beautifully lacquered tea-smoked duck; or the beloved “double skin”—a platter of mung bean noodles tossed with pork, mushrooms, squid and a soy-mustard dressing. Only larger parties can reserve, so be aware there may be lines at peak hours.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. There's a welcoming vibe at this hip spot where the focus is on natural fermentation with sourdough pizza, seasonal pickled vegetables, and fermented drinks such as tepache. Grá has indoor and covered patio seating, but all eyes will be on the cooks preparing pizzas in their wood-fired oven. It's all about the thin and crispy sourdough crust with high quality toppings. Classics like pepperoni will always rule, but hard hitters like stracciatella and prosciutto with basil and a drizzle of coffee-infused honey are worth noting. While pizza is certainly the scene stealer, don't ignore their salads or appetizers, including grilled maitake with pickled green peppercorn and agretti in a flavor-packed broth. For dessert, go for the soy-sauce caramel sundae or chocolate tart.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, Korean Contemporary. This is the kind of spot that serves food so memorable you'll find yourself craving the same meal well after your visit. The kitchen is known for surprising diners at every twist and turn, as evidenced by the tteokbokki—spicy rice cake topped with Oaxacan cheese and chorizo. Start your meal with yache pajun, a savory and crisp pancake filled with vegetables. Not to be missed is the daegu jorim, cod fish braised in a luscious, sweet soy sauce served with tender daikon radish and jammy onions. Beat the heat with the mak-gutsu, chilled and icy soba noodles served with chili vinaigrette, then wind down over warm, light and fluffy beignets along with a sip from their wonderful selection of sparkling spirits. Affable service augments the dining experience at this local favorite.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. This passion project of Chef Thai Dang and wife, Danielle, offers refined Vietnamese cuisine in a plum setting. The menu, divided into five sections, is filled with wonderful, lesser-known (and possibly unexpected) dishes you won’t want to miss. The restaurant offers many seating options: an open kitchen fringed with comfy seats; a bar area for cocktails and perhaps an order of those famous chicken wings; as well as two dining rooms, one with communal seating. Don’t leave without sampling the goi vit (duck salad), followed by ché, a Vietnamese rice pudding with coconut, sesame, and toasted peanuts.For street food, specialty coffee and quenching cocktails, visit their next-door coffee shop, Cà Phê Đá.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, Vegetarian. Beyond an ordinary façade lies this serene, shoes-off retreat with traditional low tables, Korean artifacts and meditative music. While wine and beer are available, a pot of royal green tea from Mt. Jilee is a more apt pairing considering the soothing setting. HanGawi is a soft-spoken, vegetarian-only restaurant that cares about what you eat and how you feel. The ssam bap offers a fun DIY experience with a long platter of fillings. Dark leafy lettuce and thin, herbaceous sesame leaves are topped with creamy slices of avocado, crunchy bean sprouts, pickled daikon, carrot, cucumber, radish and three rice options—white, brown and a nutty, purple-tinged multigrain. Topped with miso ssam sauce, each bite is a fresh burst of uplifting textures.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Co-Chefs Cody Taylor and Chef Jiyeon Lee have cooked up something entirely new at Heirloom Market. Blending their Southern and Korean heritage and flavors, they've created a mash-up that's nothing short of fantastic inside a small spot that happens to share space with a liquor store. What it lacks in size it makes up for with a buzzy vibe and standout flavor — it's easy to see why the Korean pork, smoked and braised in a sweet-spicy sauce, is a signature dish. BBQ traditionalists will want to dig in to the brisket that's unfussed with but oh-so-tender and tasty. For a clever take on a Southern classic, try the green tomato kimchi mixed with sliced jalapeños and radish. Sauces, like the mustardy Hotlanta and pepper-vinegar Settler, are worth a shake.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Sometimes being single-minded pays off, and it's certainly true at Chef Rino Cerbone's casual, contemporary spot in trendy Flagler Village. It's all about pizza here (with a few pastas and salads, and starters like crispy Roman artichokes), but don't expect your run-of-the-mill marinara-topped disc. Instead, this place doles out highly customized pies with different sauces and unusually appealing toppings. Case in point? The squash blossom and cold-pulled burrata pizza sauced with chunky sherry marinara. More New York-style than Neapolitan, it's hard to leave leftovers. Do, though, as dessert can't be missed, especially that olive oil cake topped with mascarpone whip and sided by strawberry sauce and vanilla semi freddo.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Regional Cuisine. Barbecue is a veritable religion in America, and chefs in this realm have a near cultish way of doing things. With that in mind, consider this SJC bijou, packed to the gills with focused diners and trays of smoky meat.Punctuality is of the essence as everyone is here, early and eager, for Chef/owner Daniel Castillo's food. His creations draw inspiration from central Texas, so when that sweet scent of California white oak gets going, find yourself transported on a riotous journey, starting with slices of glistening brisket—correctly charred and deliciously rich. Add on a side of chili with more brisket along with a cheddar-jalapeño biscuit and never look back again. Don't forget to save room for desserts like banana pudding or pineapple upside down cake.

Bib Gourmand • Southern, Regional Cuisine. Chef Barry Dindyal is the talent behind this prominent and retro Petworth destination. Diners here will find that time mostly stands still inside, thanks to a simple (by design) aesthetic, dominated by wood with hints of orange, pleather booths and a buzzy bar. Throwback decor aside, most diners are here for the chef's delicate rendition of beloved Southern classics. Crisp, tender and enticingly juicy, fried chicken takes center stage. Like most other items on this menu, it is made-to-order daily and absolutely worth the wait. When coupled with succulent vegan collard greens or homemade French fries, it transforms into a heartwarming delight. Can't manage another morsel? A taste of the lemon cake slathered with butter cream will change your mind in a flash.

Bib Gourmand • Italian-American, Pizza. With more than a decade of history behind it, this stylish looker in Brookhaven Circle is a feast for the senses. Light rushes in through countless windows with generous seating and attractive booths stretching from the lively bar to the bustling dining room. A wood-burning oven chars puffy pies dressed with the likes of pepperoni and honey or pork belly with eggs. The kitchen’s knack for creative, bold combinations extends beyond pizza. Think oysters roasted with Calabrian chili oil or poutine buried in pork neck bone gravy.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. You'll know you're close to Hometown Bar-B-Que when you smell the wood smoke drifting through Red Hook. Set in a sprawling warehouse with communal tables and an industrial feel, it's a bit of a trek from Manhattan, but the counter-service lineup of expertly smoked meats makes it worthwhile. The spice-rubbed brisket remains essential: tender, juicy, with a vivid smoke-ring, and the homemade jalapeño sausage enriched with melted cheese is a standout. Sides like collard greens with smoked pork and tangy cold potato salad are must-haves. Save room for the banana pudding topped with fresh crumbled vanilla wafers.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. From Austin, Texas to Brooklyn, New York, Pitmaster Bill Durney brings his signature barbecue to Magic City. Just like the original location, Durney has built this warehouse-chic space amidst a sea of industry in the Miami Produce Center, where trucks and moving pallets roam the streets. The sheer scale of the space—open kitchen on one side, a long bar on the other, tables in between and a patio just beyond—is something to behold.A hulking beef rib crusted with salt and black pepper, as well as melting, charred slices of brisket are essential orders that have few equals outside of Texas. Satisfying sides, like a yucca bowl, brisket queso and watermelon salad, round out the meal. The food here arrives almost as quickly as it’s ordered, so come hungry.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Contemporary. Hop Alley refers to the original name for Denver's Chinatown, but there's nothing historic about this sleek restaurant. In keeping with the contemporary look, the Chinese menu with Sichuan leanings features modern adaptations of classics. There's plenty of originality and bold flavors, as seen in dishes like gai lan, a dynamic plate of grilled Chinese broccoli with schmaltz and oyster sauce finished with house-made duck salt and crispy shallots. Shrimp toast topped with whipped shrimp and chicken thigh is far from standard thanks to mustard gastrique and tiger vinaigrette. Dan dan mian noodles are set with ground pork in a Szechuan peppercorn broth that brings the heat. Uniquely beguiling cocktails provide an excellent companion to the cuisine, accented with the likes of orgeat and green Sichuan peppercorns.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Arrive early to this local sensation from Matt Horn as there is bound to be a wait. It's well worth your time though, as the chef's "West Coast Barbecue" complete with inspiration is nothing less than rich, delicious, and decadent. Set along a commercial stretch and within an industrial structure, this cool, warehouse-style space features such decorative accents as a mural of an angry steer, kitchen-facing counter (with a menu right above it), and sleek wood banquettes.Employing his family's cooking traditions and all manner of meat-smoking, the chef turns out trays of brisket, pulled pork, and sausages—all unfussy yet irresistible. Sides of Granny’s potatoes and pit beans are a must; while banana pudding is likely the best way to finish the affair.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Is subtlety overrated? Chef Mason Hereford makes a compelling case at this kitschy restaurant on Magazine Street. Those familiar with his sandwich sensations at Turkey and the Wolf will not be surprised to find a similar kind of culinary maximalism. Big, bold, loud flavors that adhere to no one cuisine course through the cooking and consistently harmonize into something delicious. Charred cabbage and bok choy jolted with Sichuan peppercorn oil, toasted peanuts and rice is basically an entree but listed as an appetizer. Artichokes on the half shell is the garlicky, veggie alternative to the oyster classic. Room for curry? Hearts of palm, calamari and crispy rice come together seamlessly. Neon, tile and VHS tapes set a quirky, relaxed atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. Sometimes you can hear the sound of sizzling woks drifting from the kitchen at this Long Island City spot. The sleek, narrow dining room is comfortable and understated, setting the tone for a focused menu that favors clarity over excess. Expect approachable takes on regional favorites, like lightly dressed cucumber batons scented with sesame and peppercorn, ma-la wontons awash in a sweet-spicy sauce, and mapo tofu built around large, fresh cubes of house-made tofu with leeks and scallions. Heat is present but restrained, emphasizing aroma and balance rather than sheer intensity. Hupo may not court thrill-seekers, but it offers a gentle, repeatable expression of Sichuan cooking that works especially well for everyday dining.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. San Anselmo restaurateur, Chef Heidi Krahling honors her late father, Italo Insalata, at this crowd-pleasing Marin hangout. The zucca-orange stucco exterior alludes to the Mediterranean air within. Insalata’s upscale setting is framed by lemon-yellow walls hung with grand depictions of nature’s bounty, setting the scene for an array of fresh and flavorful cuisine to come. Sparked by Middle Eastern flavors, the kitchen's specialties include velvety smooth potato-leek soup made brilliantly green from watercress purée. Also sample grilled lamb skewers drizzled with cumin-yogurt atop crunchy salad and flatbread. The takeout area in the back is stocked with salads, sides and sandwiches made with house-baked bread. Boxed lunches are a fun, tasty convenience.

Bib Gourmand • Malaysian. Is there ever not a wait at this friendly Malaysian café? Chef Kenji Tang clearly knows his audience, and day or night the line to get in can be as dense as the takeout tickets that pile up on the front counter. Tang fills a welcome niche with a succinct menu of Malaysian staples in a neighborhood better known for its Chinese restaurants. The Hainanese chicken is the default order for good reason: gently poached, tender and served cold with a trio of sauces and a dome of seasoned rice. Chicken curry shows an ability to layer finely tuned spices and is best paired with hot, flaky roti canai, while simple pleasures like kaya toast underscore the kitchen's strength with classics done correctly. Wok-fired dishes like char kway teow round out the menu for those looking to dig deeper.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. Can’t swing a ticket to Tokyo? Dinner at Ippuku is the next best thing. With its low Japanese-style tables, extensive woodwork and enormous selection of sake and shochu, it feels like an authentic izakaya transplanted into a corner of downtown Berkeley. The low-profile entrance adds to the feeling that you’ve lucked upon a special dining secret—assuming you don’t stroll right past it, that is. Yakitori is the big draw here, with smoky, salty chicken thighs, necks, hearts and gizzards arriving fresh off the binchotan. Other excellent small plates include korokke, or golden-brown Dungeness crab croquettes, crisp on the outside and with a creamy interior, or yaki-imo, caramelized white sweet potato with a sweet-and-salty glaze.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Orlando's Thai restaurants typically dole out southern curry dishes and the ubiquitous pad Thai, but Isan Zaap strays from the pack with its gaze trained exclusively on northeast Thai cuisine with Laotian overlaps. There is an impressive level of attention to detail and a nice balance of spice and fermented flavors, and though impeccably executed curry makes an appearance, there's also an entire section dedicated to som tums that can be topped with fermented crab or fermented pork sausage. House specialties are a hit, as in the unique whole fish larb, cut into bite-sized pieces, tossed with toasted rice powder and fried to a crisp, and crowned with shaved red onion herbs tossed in a sweet yet spicy sauce. For dessert, dig in to durian sticky rice - if you dare.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Promises of “modern Indian” often bring more flash than flavor, but that is not the case at this welcoming restaurant along Avenue A. A striking salmon-pink quartz bar stretches the length of the front area and into a moodier dining room where groups gather around generously spaced tables. The menu is teeming with ideas, and dishes arrive with all the right levels of spice, heat, depth, and nuance. “Jalebi Chaat” is a savory, textural playground with chickpeas, beetroot, and a sweet and sour yogurt. There must be butter chicken, which comes doused in a complex tomato makhani sauce. There must also be lamb shank biryani, portioned for a party and spiced to the hilt. Everything is designed to be shared so plan accordingly.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Barbecue. Lucky are the eaters who make their way to this unique seafood smokehouse. Inside the warehouse-like space, a daily market and state-of-the-art smoker reside at street level. Above this, find a tavern-like restaurant with a large, open-air rooftop. The fish is fresh, the staff is especially friendly, and the vibe is irresistible with occasional live music. Opt for the smokehouse appetizer which comes with your choice of smoked fish (perhaps Pacific Northwest-style honey hot smoked salmon, North Carolina rainbow trout, or Great Lake whitefish salad) paired with a bagel and served with chive cream cheese, tomato, red onion, cucumbers, capers and horseradish sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Izakaya. Delicate izakaya cuisine with a produce-centric NorCal sensibility awaits at this Japanese sanctum, where wood-framed booths crafted from redwood wine casks and a Hinoki cedar bar create a serene setting.The kitchen transforms even the most humble dishes into works of art. Starters like teba no karaage, or crispy chicken wings with tangy sansho pepper, are perfect for sharing, while Teishoku lunch sets are consistently good. Freshly made soft tofu is infused with fragrant bergamot peel, while meaty king trumpet mushrooms join classic chicken thighs and tender tsukune on the menu of smoky, caramelized charcoal-grilled skewers. The blancmange, infused with white sesame and topped with sweet black soybeans, is particularly unmissable.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. Hailing from China’s Xinjiang region, Uyghurs are largely Muslim, and their cuisine is informed by both Chinese and Arabic cultures. That means you can expect plenty of lamb, spices, color and dishes full of verve and vitality. The specialty is hand-pulled noodles; these deliciously chewy, thick noodles slip down very easily, whether you’d gone for Laghman noodles or Jahunger noodles with Sichuan peppercorns – you can feel them nourishing your body and your soul. Start with dumplings with their own chili oil and end with refreshing homemade yogurt with honey. The original Jahunger opened in Providence in 2017 while this bigger, brighter branch began life in 2024. It’s family owned and comes with an unassuming and appealing honesty.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Regional Cuisine. One Fulton Square is fast becoming the address for the area’s most compelling restaurants, but unlike its neighbors, which stick to single specialties like Sichuan or soup dumplings, Jiang Nan delivers hits from all regions of China. The stylish restaurant group now runs multiple locations across the region, but this Flushing location is the original. Roast Beijing duck is a signature order that comes with thin pancakes on a silver tray. Fiery mapo tofu in a portion fit for four and one particularly thrilling sliced beef in golden pepper sauce are also must-orders. The grand setting is particularly attractive, ideal for dates and business meetings alike, thanks to a handsome Imperial design that mixes lacquered finishes, stone and greenery.

Bib Gourmand • Thai, Californian. The path to this Laurel District hotspot began when owner Kao Saelee, an Oakland native with Thai roots, first introduced his wife, Jo, to the cuisine, and it’s precisely that spirit of cultural exchange you’ll find embodied here. The menu displays the bold, balanced flavors typical of Thai cuisine, but isn’t overly concerned with hewing to tradition. That creative, irreverent approach is exemplified in dishes like a signature take on drunken noodles, which features smoky barbecue brisket, or a pork burger seasoned to resemble the complex herbaceous flavors of laab. Diners with delicate palates, fret not: the kitchen offers varying levels of spice. Choose from the unique, mouthwatering cocktail list to round out the meal.

Bib Gourmand • Italian-American. Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo opened the original location of this easygoing Italian-American café in 2015, and it’s been busy-busy ever since. The slender room is soaked in sun thanks to the skylights and features a long counter that stretches the length of the open kitchen. The team works the wood-fired grill and blazing oven with ease, the servers are on point, and even after all these years, the food is as charming as ever. There are plenty of pizzas, all of them with lightly charred edges and topped with everything from smoked ham to vodka sauce. But don’t slouch on the rest of the menu, like the refreshing salads packed with veggies or the superb, house-made pastas. Spaghetti limone with breadcrumbs is a recent highlight.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Contemporary. It's now one address with two distinctive concepts at this Penn Quarter restaurant, though all eyes should be on Karizma, in the main dining space, where fans of the original restaurant will find all of their favorites (book separately for a tasting menu at Karma, located in a smaller, separate room). Don't overlook the imaginative drinks, both spirit-based and alcohol-free, like the Tiger's Tail made with blood orange, turmeric and chili water. Expect authentic, traditional cooking that reflects the range of Indian cuisine. Naan here is a cut above the norm, as in the wild mushroom with a hint of truffle. The use of top ingredients shines through in the elegant, rich and flavorful paneer lajawab.

Bib Gourmand • Deli. One of the last-standing, old-time Eastern European spots on the Lower East Side, Katz’s is a true NY institution. It’s crowded, crazy and packed with a panoply of characters weirder than a jury duty pool. Tourists, hipsters, blue hairs and everybody in between flock here, so come on off-hours. Because it’s really that good. Walk inside, get a ticket and don’t lose it (those guys at the front aren’t hosts—upset their system and you’ll get a verbal beating). Then pick up your food at the counter and bring it to a first-come first-get table; or opt for a slightly less dizzying experience at a waitress-served table.Nothing’s changed in the looks or taste. Matzo ball soup, pastrami sandwiches, potato latkes—everything is what you’d expect, only better.

Bib Gourmand • Izakaya, Barbecue. What do you get when you blend a Japanese izakaya with a barbecue joint? It's not a punchline—it's Kemuri Tatsu-ya. From the decor (think cowboy boots and whiskey bottles with teapots and lanterns) to the menu (corn bread taiyaki, anyone?), this East Austin spot blends the two worlds in the very best way. It's casual but laser-focused on quality. Choose from snacks and skewers like the grilled scallop and squash plated with saikyo corn brûlée. Smoked options, from brisket in a sesame-pecan rub to salmon collar, can be made into a bento box which arrive with koshihikari rice, serrano limón miso barbecue sauce, house pickles, and guacamole. Most dishes are intended for sharing, making this an ideal spot for groups.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Egyptian. Barbecue is ubiquitous in Texas, but there's something deliciously different about KG BBQ. It's all due to owner Kareem El-Ghayesh. Raised in Cairo, he left behind a career in finance to move here to smoke meat, and Austin is very happy he did. His food truck is located next to Oddwood Brewing, and there's always a line for this food that marries Middle Eastern twists with Texan barbecue tradition. From rubs and sauces that use sumac, cinnamon, and pomegranate to Mediterranean sausage with green olives, sun dried tomatoes, and feta cheese, the mashup is marvelous. Don't skip the boneless chicken thighs marinated in honey, thyme, and sumac and accompanied by a yogurt sauce. End on a sweet note like the rice pudding with pistachio butter and mascarpone.

Bib Gourmand • Pakistani, Indian. This South Asian gem makes a splash on this quiet stretch that teems with Mex-American eateries and markets aplenty. Originally from Pakistan, Chef Imran Ali Mookhi displays a certain deftness with spices, flavors and in his handling of red meat. Chicken, fish and vegetarian items are on offer, but there's no denying that beef is king on this menu.The décor is bright, neat and hip. A bar in the back pours craft mocktails that pair swimmingly with such memorable items as beef (sirloin) kebabs with mustard oil, yogurt and garlic. Signature dishes like Khan biryani and chicken Karahi score high on flavor and texture. Australian Wagyu and Tomahawk steak will thrill carnivores; while seasonal vegetables have locavores returning for more.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Is anyone surprised that the team behind Ramen Gaijin has another hit on their hands? The chefs here have traveled extensively throughout Thailand, which inspired them to bring its flavors back to Sebastopol. Certainly, anyone expecting the sweeter, Americanized side of Thai cooking is in for an awakening. This is food that is seasoned boldly, by turns spicy, fresh and complex. From green papaya salad to fried chicken with a punchy nam jim dipping sauce, flavor abounds. The pastes for all the curries are also made in house, as with a heady massaman curry featuring golden potatoes and meltingly tender braised beef.The space, too, is stunning, thanks to lofty ceilings, bamboo lanterns and a tranquil pond.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. If you think you know what to order from this kitchen because you’ve been to Oaxaca, just wait a minute and listen to your fellow diners. They too have made the journey and their knowledge could probably draw a map of the city. Located in the heart of Little Saigon, this quiet restaurant has been thriving thanks to a clientele who knows quality when they taste it.The likes of soft, just-steamed pork tamales with a delicately spiced green mole; or wide, crackly tlayudas piled high with chorizo are presented to your table with the utmost care. The focused menu may have a number of highlights but one favorite is the Cornish hen roasted until its skin is crisp as a chip and then smothered with a dark, faintly sweet mole made from a riot of layered spices.

Bib Gourmand • American, Southern. Ronnie Killen’s Heights hit is the wrong place to count calories or dabble with salads. Quite the opposite, this Southern standout is an all-or-nothing celebration honoring his grandmother. Sharing is encouraged here, where meals should begin with their spiced jalapeño cornbread skillet or grilled oysters with harissa spiced topping. Buttermilk fried chicken with a pot of creamy mashed potatoes delights at lunch, while all of the barbecue favorites like brisket, ribs and turkey, are here too. This is comfort food that rings familiar, satisfies with ease and all but demands for a nap once you’ve cleared the last crumb (but save room for the bread pudding!). Those who bravely walk in hoping to go meatless can take refuge in the sizeable selection of vegetables.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. In the quiet city of Pearland, native Texan Ronnie Killen barbecues like few others in the Lone Star state. Everyone waits patiently before doors open at 11 a.m., when the crowd moves fast through, what used to be, the city’s first school cafeteria. Sourcing from Snake River Farms, Killen offers a first-class beef rib smoked just out back that is a silken delight and sings of smoke, salt, fat, and pepper. You could cut it with a spoon. And regardless of what your doctor says, order those melting cubes of pork belly burnt ends tossed in a pepper jelly sauce. Brussels sprouts and collards sopping in potlikker offer some reprieve from the meat. First timers won’t have room for dessert, but veterans never lose sight of the crème brûlée bread pudding.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. This enduringly hip Los Feliz favorite is best experienced with friends, but we can’t help feeling a tiny bit selfish when the chicken and pine nut pies wrapped in flaky phyllo arrive or when oyster mushroom skewers with a creamy onion and cashew sauce land on the table. And the Persian crispy rice with egg yolks? Do we have to share this one too? Such is the enduring charm of this Middle Eastern hotspot that prioritizes seasonal vegetables and bright flavors. Nothing feels heavy, ever, and even the most familiar of ingredients can surprise. The staff is equally charming, as cool as the cucumbers with rosewater labneh. Truly, in that eternal quest to find the quintessential neighborhood restaurant, Kismet meets the mark with flying colors.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. Married couple Brian Lea and Leina Horii are behind this popular restaurant that fills quickly and doesn't accept reservations. It's all about Japanese comfort food, with a nod to a kissaten, or a cozy tea shop. Their menu is concise and designed for sharing. This a team who cares about the details, and from ingredient quality to execution, it's all done with a simplified finesse. Don't miss the onigiri with three triangles of rice with different fillings, including shredded snow crab and avocado, cod roe and a curry with kabocha squash. Larger dishes include grilled yellowtail collar with a vibrant ponzu sauce or chilled ramen salad for a seasonal twist on a standby. For dessert, you won't go wrong with miso crème brûlée or yuzu parfait.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. In the bustling Mercado Del Paloma, Chef Fátima Juárez runs this little stall specializing in corn. Heirloom varieties sourced from Mexico and nixtamalized in-house form the heart of the menu. A quesadilla lined with squash blossoms and sweet corn bound with melty quesillo earns top marks. Golden-fried plantain balls set in a smoky black mole is another accomplished winner. From tlacoyas topped with cactus to tacos lined with short rib, be liberal with the salsa for extra punch and power.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dumplings. Watch out Hell's Kitchen; watch out Flushing—with its lineup of traditional Chinese comfort food, including the best soup dumplings in town, this steamy joint kicks its competitors to the curb. Set among the neon lights of the Theater District, the ever-packed gem may showcase a noodle house-like vibe, but the staff is friendly and the cooking on-point at all times. Hand-pulled and hand-cut noodles are stir-fried with mouthwatering accompaniments, while the dumpling variety is so great it’s almost impossible to pick. Herb-spiked pork and shrimp wonton soup is well worth the 20-minute wait, allowing diners plenty of time to devour pan-fried Peking duck bundles, scallion pancakes stuffed with sliced beef or even steamed buns full of mushroom.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This Larimer Street spot from chef Jose Avila is no fuss and no frills but all heart. Inside, it's equal parts cozy and colorful with dark, unpolished wood floors and vibrant walls. In case the name didn't give it away, pozole is the star of the show. They feature the typical rojo and verde broths as well as white, black (with a smoky char from roasted chilies) and vegetarian—eschewing pork for mushroom and chayote. It's an impressive take on a Mexican staple. Customize the protein and opt for the tender and flavorful pork, and order a mezcal from their extensive selection. Should pozole not call your name, there are tacos and pambazos on offer, and on weekends, mornings are met with chilaquiles and a concha French toast that's worth an early wake-up call.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. From the team behind Pranakhon comes this handsome new restaurant just off Union Square. Wooden arches, private booths, and lotus-shaped lamp fixtures make for a colorful, Colonial-era stage to match the kitchen’s soul-satisfying Vietnamese cooking. Of course you will find the expected banh mi and summer rolls, but consider corralling a group of friends and digging deep on the chef’s special menu. A fantastic, clever riff on the Vietnamese turmeric crepe arrives with plucky shrimp and a basket of fresh herbs. Little steamed rice cakes arrive garnished with shallots and garlic. Best of all? Thin slivers of Miyazaki A5 wagyu adorn a superb, fragrant bowl of pho that’s poured tableside and capable of brightening up the dreariest of days.

Bib Gourmand • French. This idyllic bistro makes good on its promise of comfort and quality. Tiled flooring, quaint little tables and cabinets lined with wine bottles match the French ethos. Thanks to a partnership with sister spot Bandit bakery, anything involving bread or pastry is worth ordering: flaky croissants, tomato and goat cheese tarts, fruit galettes. Roasted half chicken with potato gratin is an assured crowd-pleaser but so too is the dry-aged cheeseburger or the boudin blanc with aligot potatoes. Relaxed servers add to the allure of a restaurant that welcomes you as you are at any time of the day.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. You wouldn’t think to make reservations for a pizza place in Little River, but think again. The crowds can be relentless at this popular hangout, which feels rather like an underground party by way of concrete floors and dim lighting.Creative toppings like za’atar and Sichuan peppercorns sing on stunning, picture-perfect pies zealously charred in a wood-burning oven hiding behind the bar. We’re partial to the classic burrata and basil pie, which arrives puffy and pillowy thanks to the signature crust that's cold-fermented for 48 hours. An astute selection of starters (try the papaya with kumquat) and one of the city’s longest lists for natural wines only add to the appeal of this essential pizzeria. A personable staff keeps a close watch on every table.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This East Austin eatery isn't your average roadside trailer. Run by the Landaverde siblings, this spot elevates the typical experience with a platform and picnic tables shaded by greenery and a battalion of fans. The food is equally leveled up, with a focus on barbacoa (even the name is a play on it). From the very first bite, it's clear that this meat is special. Get it in their popular benito taco, with pinto beans and chicharrón, or in that Austin staple, migas tacos, with scrambled eggs, chips, shredded cheese and sliced avocado. It's also available on its own or in a quesabarbacha, a beet-red tortilla folded with barbacoa, cilantro and onion, along with gooey cheese. It's decadent, with a good balance of flavor aided by their house-made salsa. They've also opened a second 6th Street location.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. There isn’t a morning that can’t be made or a long night that can’t be undone thanks to Ana-Maria Jaramillo and Gus May. Once a pop-up, their cooking has found a home wedged in a strip of restaurants in Mt. Pleasant. Quick and efficient, this simple counter serves just coffee and a handful of tacos mined from a time living in Texas. Their breakfast tacos offer a singular kind of satisfaction; each one made with a superb flour tortilla kept warm in tightly wrapped foil. Fillings include soft scrambled eggs, creamy pinto beans, queso and meats like bacon, chorizo and even brisket. These are uncomplicated, unfussy bundles of joy that don’t take reservations or require any other kind of long-term planning.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Regional Cuisine. This welcoming San Antonio restaurant is a gem in the Pearl District. With an expansive terrace seating overlooking a verdant courtyard, the kitchen delivers creative, boldly seasoned dishes from across the Mediterranean. A wood-burning oven cranks out hot rounds of sourdough pita to pair with the likes of fire-roasted corn with labneh and sivri pepper or summer squash with grape-leaf chermoula. Seasonal fare figures prominently, and even Romano beans with fermented tomatoes pack far more flavor than you’d expect. Another must-order: Beef and lamb dumplings coated in a sauce of yogurt and smoked chili. Thoughtful cocktails like the green schug margarita add to the charm of this inspired restaurant that is never short on flavor.

Bib Gourmand • Ethiopian. Light streams in through the windows of this tranquil family affair in Little Ethiopia. Chef/owner Tenagne Belachew and her daughters are congenial fixtures in a simply adorned setting that feels like a humble abode. They are content to let the food do the talking and offer a dazzling selection of vibrant Ethiopian classics with vegetables and meat alike arriving on oversized silver platters lined with injera. Best shared with a group, the "veggie utopia" offers immediate insight into their talents, spotlighting lentils astutely seasoned with berber and turmeric. Finely chopped kitfo is something of a house specialty and the spicy Somali variation, made with lean prime beef flecked with onions and jalapeños, is especially enjoyable.

Bib Gourmand • Central Asian. On a prime corner in the West Village, this welcoming restaurant radiates with Georgian pride. All of the classics are accounted for, starting with a selection of vibrant salads. Khachapuri is a must. The well-known, hearty adjaruli variation packed with melted cheese as well as the lighter imeruli made with mint both delight. Skewers and stews are available but consider crowding your table with several rounds of khinkali, large, plump dumplings filled with hot broth and the likes of ground lamb or beef and pork. Servers are quick to explain how to eat them. A long communal table anchors the center of this handsome room surrounded by murals and colorful touches. Adding to the fun is a wine list that’s entirely Georgian.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Lang Van feels like more than just a restaurant in the Plaza Shamrock neighborhood. Maybe it's the thank you notes from loyal diners that paper the walls. Or maybe it's co-owner Dan Nguyen's warm hospitality. The extensive menu of Vietnamese favorites is yet another reason. Nguyen is something of a legend here, having first joined the restaurant as a team member before she and her husband Chef Tuyen Tran became the owners. Slide into a booth (they're the best seats in the house) and peruse the menu with everything from pho and spring rolls to hot pot and classic vermicelli noodles. No matter what you order it's all delicious, and with favorable pricing, it satisfies both your appetite and your budget.

Bib Gourmand • Deli, American. Pico Blvd. is lined with Jewish delis, but stray from the pack and head to MacArthur Park and Langer’s, which has been ladling matzoh ball soup since 1947. And while it began life as a 12-seat counter, it has transformed to a massive space—decked out with booths and that classic counter.Equally ample is the menu, with all of the requisite standards, such as latkes, blintzes and chopped liver. Breakfast is served all day, but if you’re here for the first time, opt for the hot pastrami (provided by RC Provisions in Burbank) sandwich. Sugar-cured, seasoned and smoked; then piled with cheese, sauerkraut and grilled between two slices of rye—it’s the king of the castle. The only way to make this meal better is to end with a slice of sinfully rich cheesecake.

Bib Gourmand • South East Asian, Lao. The flavors and heat of Southeast Asian are on full display at this Northeast DC eatery. Though the menu spans much of the country, Laos’ menu—sporting a section devoted entirely to vegans—still manages to be original, offering ingredients that are rarely found in similar restaurants. It also promises—and delivers on—dishes marked “phet" (or spicy).Generous slices of sausage with savory herbs are served with crunchy green papaya, peanuts and fiery green chili; while the chef’s signature papaya salad arrives with bright green beans, Laos pork loaf and a mellow fermented fish sauce. Don’t miss the unique orm, a tender chicken-and-dill curry, imbued with Asian eggplant, cabbage, scallions and more green beans. An extensive cocktail list is an added bonus.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Regional Cuisine. The beauty of dining at this noodle house is that you don’t have to guess what they’re good at—the menu is brief, and everything you really need to know is in the name. But, their eight tables fill quickly so plan ahead. This kitchen focuses entirely on slinging noodles inspired by the cuisine of China’s famed Shanxi Province, so start with a chilled bowl of these gelatinous strands slathered with sesame-peanut sauce and the tingling heat of house-made chili oil. Then move on to the slender “wife special” noodles, with their springy, toothsome texture mixing with bits of crisped pork belly and fermented soy sauce. While dumplings are absolutely worth the order, also keep room for savoring some of the chef’s special fried noodles.

Bib Gourmand • Afghan. From its whitewashed walls and stunning Afghan rugs warming the floor to the sepia-toned heirloom photos on the walls, this place exudes warmth and charm, albeit in a highly stylish manner. Husband-and-wife owners Zubair and Shamim Popal share the fragrant cuisine of their native Afghanistan. Light and fresh without the heavy-handed spicing of other regional cuisines, this food is a delicious discovery. Split pea soup may sound basic but here it is layered with flavor. And chopawn is the real deal—this trio of grilled-to-perfection lamb chops is served with sensational cardamom-scented rice and draws you in forkful after fluffy forkful.

Bib Gourmand • Deli, Italian. The name was your first clue. The cutout of a pig hanging over the door was your second. Specializing in whole hog, snout to tail butchery, this all-day salumeria offers a dazzling selection of charcuterie arranged on wooden boards or layered on soft deli bread. Such craftsmanship is in full view of the dining room, which includes a curing chamber filled with rows of soppressata, finocchiona and Spanish chorizo. Truffled lardo with rosemary is a must, as is the Italiano sandwich. Need a vegetable? Try the salad with baby kale and delicata squash in a pear vinaigrette. The historic building, with its honeycomb tiled floors and original wood joists, offers a charming old-world vibe. Weekend dinner strikes closer to a bistro with steak frites and duck leg confit.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. Deep into Queens past Flushing is this little gem that hides in plain sight—inside of an ordinary strip mall. To be clear though, the cooking is anything but ordinary. The uninitiated come for the crab Rangoon, General Tso’s chicken, and other American treasures; but those in the know come for crave-worthy Sichuan food.Start with the spicy mung bean jelly noodles and Sichuan-style crispy eggplant, which is not the least bit greasy and sports a creamy center and glass-like crust. Thin shavings of intensely smoked pork with garlic leaf is even better than what tea-smoked duck would taste like if made with bacon. The “tears in eyes” jelly salad may not induce actual tears, but it’s stocked with chillies, seeds, peanuts and is absolutely worth ordering.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. When the garage doors are up, doors and windows wide open, and the breeze blowing right through, this oyster bar has few equals. Naturally, the seafood is well-sourced at what once was a filling station. But what draws us in again and again are the small culinary twists that go a long way. A hearty smoked mahi mahi dip comes with, of all things, fried saltine crackers. A stunning shrimp roll is tossed with slivers of seedless jalapenos, garnished with crushed potato chips, and stuffed into toasted brioche. Marinated in hot sauce, brined in buttermilk, and seasoned with Old Bay, the fried chicken is the juiciest bird we’ve had yet. A curated list of top-tier grower Champagnes is an unexpected addition to an already wonderful destination.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. A mural of a steer watches over the parking lot with the words “All Hail the King” in bold lettering, and firewood stacked to the roof overlooks a gravel patio set with picnic tables. A thick haze of smoke wafts in the air. Welcome to Texas by way of the Lowcountry. John Lewis, who earned a name for himself when he opened LA Barbecue in Austin, has brought with him all things smoke and beef. Beautiful, near-melting slivers of brisket and the weekend-only beef rib are essential orders, sold by the pound and sliced in front of you at the counter. Sides like green chili corn pudding and potato salad are also excellent additions. By this point, few will have room for dessert, but perhaps consider ordering a banana pudding. It’s worth the extra bite.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Shanghainese. Chef Yuchun Cheung brightens Murray Hill with authentic regional dishes from China, with an emphasis on Shanghai. This cooking is serious and high quality, rooted in tradition and comfort, and it's easy to make a deeply satisfying meal focusing on appetizers and vegetable dishes alone. Signatures include crispy eel, a pile of sweet, glossy crunch that is impossible to stop eating, and stir-fried cauliflower with dry chili, which carries a bright, numbing heat. The pork and crab soup dumplings are neatly constructed, self-contained rather than explosive, and mapo tofu stands out for its custardy, silken texture and spice. The attractive interior is festooned with wood furniture, dark walls, cozy lighting and a small bar up front. Younger crowds lend the space a lively appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Chef Jarrett Stieber pulls inspiration from around the globe at this restaurant, nestled within the Summerhill area. It's a popular spot with locals, who often stop by with their dogs to procure a biscuit from the bar (Little Bear is the nickname for the chef's beloved late dog), so be sure to make a reservation or find a seat at the buzzy bar. Stieber presides over an open kitchen where an eclectic, contemporary menu is frequently changing, and a prix fixe offering includes dishes not found on the à la carte. You may dine on items such as earthy chicken liver custard with corn cakes or lightly spiced cumin lamb with piquant red pea doubanjiang hummus.

Bib Gourmand • Latin American. There's something uplifting about this cozy neighborhood spot. Maybe it's the cheerful yellow facade or perhaps it's the number they hand you on a playing card after you've ordered at the counter. No matter the reason, Little Chango is a delightful place for casual Latin American fare. Choose from items like arepas with shredded ropa vieja and "lunch boxes" with rice and meat selections. Don't even think about skipping their sides, ranging from mamposteao, or Puerto Rican-style yellow rice and beans, to a bright escabeche with diced avocado, thinly sliced bell peppers and red onion in vinegar and oil.

Bib Gourmand • Tex-Mex. You could come to this St. Elmo spot for its view of Lookout Mountain alone, but then you'd miss out on some seriously good Tex-Mex cooking. Erik and Amanda Niel's Little Coyote is all about smoked meats, house-made corn tortillas and tempting cocktails. Familiar favorites like fajitas and queso make an appearance, and since it's all intended for sharing, order with abandon. Consider kicking off the meal with a stuffed avocado, made vegetarian or with brisket or tender, smoky carnitas. Then tuck into a tostada layered with braised oxtail. Finished with a fried egg and cactus chow chow, it's far from standard. The dinner menu spans more smoked meats including chicken and beef ribs. End with house-made ice cream, especially the goat cheese and vanilla with masa crumbles.

Bib Gourmand • American. Once itinerant, Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle now welcome guests to their Echo Park location where they share space with a mini market. Come for breakfast or lunch—both are delicious. As their name suggests, the menu is seafood-focused, but steak and vegetarian offerings are also on offer. Mornings are met with items like fish tartines and fish and mushroom congee, while lunch features heartier sandwiches like their signature fried fish. The beer-battered Pacific striped bass is tender and sweet, then topped with American cheese, kewpie mayo and dill pickles on a potato bun for a midday meal that is as satisfying as they come. Not a fan of fish? The broccoli rabe melt with kabocha squash spread, provolone piccante cheese and chili garlic is a standout.

Bib Gourmand • Burmese. Husband and wife Thidar Kyaw and Tin Ko Naing along with their daughter, Yun Naing, run this tiny spot in the East Village. Despite its size, the hospitality is warm and the menu is surprisingly large. Burmese cuisine takes center stage here, and there is everything from soup and athokes, or salads, as well as hearty dishes including paratha chicken and curries. Kick off the meal with a delightfully crunchy Burmese pancake filled with vegetables and toasted sesame seeds but don't miss the house-made roti with rich, creamy potato curry. Kaut swe thoke, or yellow noodle salad, is another hit with tender noodles in a curry sauce studded with chicken, but no matter your selection, the flavors are bold, and the portions are perfect for sharing.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Taiwanese. Liu's Cafe is just the sort of casual spot you'll come to again and again. Arrive early, as seats fill quickly, then order at the wood counter, where you'll get a sneak peek into the bustling kitchen. You'll also spy their selection of pastries, which definitely shouldn't be overlooked. Order the house-made pork wontons for a tender, tasty treat, and be sure to get the extra egg noodles to soak up that wonderfully kicky chili oil. Braised pork belly rice is another dish of pure comfort, and no matter what you have, everything is complemented by a pot of tea, such as the milk oolong. Finally, the pastries grab attention from the very beginning and closing out with a dessert like the citrus curd tart with shaved fennel salad is everything you want it to be.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. There are plenty of taquerias around town, but this East Village gem is a notable cut above. The breezy space features high ceilings, concrete floors and a full bar, and manages to cook even better than it looks. All day long, the kitchen prepares plush, tender tortillas, which take on a range of fun fillings like pork belly adobada with pineapple, smoked pork shoulder with tomatillos, and grilled steak with crispy onions. On a chilly day, posole verde is comfort in a bowl. Finish with Mexican mole-chocolate ice cream or the deliciously crunchy churros.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This gastropub in downtown Santa Ana isn't new but a post-pandemic reset and a trip to Mexico changed Chef Luis Perez's mindset—and menu. It's all about quality over quantity here, so expect a tightly edited menu featuring tacos, quekas, and churros, but it's all very good. Happy hour discounts make sampling it all a tempting proposition. Tacos are made with handmade flour tortillas topped with a grilled tomato and dried chili salsa and filled with everything from sauteed shrimp to pork shank carnitas and suadero. Quekas feature hand-pressed masa and are served with a habanero salsa. While the vegan mushroom queka is worth ordering by itself with nicely sauteed mushrooms, confit potatoes, and guacamole, you can also opt to add cheese for a wonderful addition.

Bib Gourmand • Gastropub. Since opening in 2010, this gastropub has defined what it means to look like one thing but cook like something else. A long bar stocked with a breathtaking whiskey selection and excellent draft beer anchors a dimly lit dining room fitted top to bottom with wood; its tiny kitchen relegated to a corner. And yet, what lands on the table is far from ordinary bar food. Think terrines made of rabbit and pork or stroganoff paired with sweetbreads. The daytime menu is especially enticing. Cured salmon with crispy potato pancake is a meal unto itself, while the omelet has few equals, a singular triumph folded around mushroom, sweet leeks, and melted brie. Neighbors wander in from morning until night, happy to be back at a place that feels like home.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dim Sum. The parking lot is likely full and you may have to wait for a seat, but this efficient Cantonese parlor is more than capable of handling its crowds, which haven’t let up since day one. Adding to the buzz of this bright dining room is a massive TV that runs down the length of the wall, as well as a host of keen-eyed servers roaming the restaurant floor.The absence of dim sum carts doesn’t always guarantee quality, but plates turned out of this kitchen are both small and large, freshly prepared and appropriately hot. Golden-brown skewers of sugarcane shrimp, plump orbs of pork siu mai, and fluffy steamed buns filled with chicken and dried scallops all delight. Best of all though may be the rice noodle rolls flecked with barbecue pork or shrimp.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish. Loquita is located just blocks from the beach and inside a cream-tinted building with a red-tiled roof. Small and stylish, the space oozes with creative flair—picture colorful tiles, a humming bar framed by soft pink stools, and starburst light fixtures. Find a perch at the beloved wood counter or outside in the inviting and attractive patio. Servers know the menu by heart, so follow their lead and start with tapas like crusty pan con tomate, before digging into hearty chorizo y pollo paella. An homage to the El Bullí olive is a contemporary signature, while carpaccio garnished with pickled mustard seeds and aged sherry vinegar is fittingly popular.A separate gin and tonic list, complete with iterations of the classic, makes a great kickoff (and sendoff).

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, South East Asian. Welcoming with just the right amount of buzz, Lore embodies the perfect neighborhood spot—if your neighborhood happens to be sophisticated Park Slope. This unique corner storefront at the base of a residential building delivers creative Indian-infused and American fare made even more enjoyable thanks to warm service in an inviting setting. Chef Jay Kumar's food is certainly the star, but the poetic cocktail list is worth more than a cursory glance. Enjoy a three-course menu or order à la carte to revel in smart, refined dishes like roasted butternut squash over babaghanoush, a signature fermented dosa with coconut, tomato and dal chutneys, and duck confit with Indian-spiced bean mash and tamarind sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. From the symphonic blend of top-quality flavors in the kitchen to the brightly hued dining room walls decked with Aztec-inspired figures, this family-run spot delivers a taste of Mexico City. The two brothers behind this operation, which started as a wildly popular food truck, present delicacies like huaraches and quesadilla de huitlacoche that rarely appear on other menus in town. Here, quesadillas are made from house-made tortillas, so try the one filled with squash blossom, queso fresco and tomatillo salsa. Tortas are a draw at lunch, while the pambazo—with bread dipped in guajillo sauce and then seared—is divine at all times.The $2 tacos featuring tender suadero and al pastor are a delightful surprise, not unlike their selection of agua frescas.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Although it's located in sunny South Beach, Lucali exudes a charming rusticity that calls to mind its original Brooklyn locale. The greenery-adorned, umbrella-shaped sidewalk is ultra-tempting; or beat the heat and find a seat inside—outfitted with plank floors and chunky tables. The wood-fired brick oven at the rear is sure to stoke the appetite. The 18-inch pizza is lusciously charred and sports a light crust crowned with fresh pomodoro sauce, a combination of cheeses and fragrant sprigs of basil. Various toppings are offered to embellish the pie, and one may even choose to have just half dressed with say, meatball crumbles and green chili slivers.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Husband-and-wife owners David and Jennifer Uygur have built a beloved Bishop Arts destination, where David leads the kitchen and Jennifer welcomes guests with genuine warmth. Reservations are often in high demand, though a handful of seats are typically held for walk-ins. Chef Uygur’s cooking is rooted in Italian traditions and shaped by the availability of seasonal Texas produce. The menu shifts regularly, with house-made pastas and cured meats forming the backbone of the offering. Dishes favor clarity and comfort over excess, allowing quality ingredients and careful technique to take center stage. A thoughtfully assembled wine list, with a strong focus on Italian bottles, rounds out the experience.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Contemporary. Two friends with a passion for food and respect for their roots. That's the origin story of Lufu, or "let us feed you," Nola. Aman Kota and Sarthak “Shan” Samantray originally did pop-ups but after adding partner and chef Sachin Darade, the three opened this brick-and-mortar in the Central Business District. This is craveable Indian cooking. Tandoori-grilled naan, charred and puffy, wafts with the scent of garlic and butter. Then, if you only get one thing, let it be the dosa. Golden and crisp, it's served with a side of sambar masala and a light green sauce. Chase it with a drink like their Curry Nola-da, a nonalcoholic twist on a pina colada with garam masala and curry leaves.

Bib Gourmand • American. This neighborhood gem is just as it’s always been and regardless of whether you're squeezed into the main dining room with friends or seated solo at the spacious bar in the adjacent space, the charm of this mainstay endures. The evolving menu focuses on fresh, seasonal, and original fare, keeping it slammed from morning to night. The potato 'nduja tart with cheddar and caramelized onions is spot on, as is the house-made spaghetti tossed with seasoned pancetta and a sweet and spicy chili bean “salsa rosa." Finish over a tall slice of double-layered carrot cake, complete with crème anglaise and a luxurious spoonful of strawberry preserves.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Italian, Southern. Luminosa is located at the recently reopened Flatiron Hotel, originally built in 1926. It's an elegant space, with an L-shaped marble bar counter and a dining room that unfolds into several areas with an open kitchen, brass fixtures, black leather seating, and windows dressed with cafe curtains.Executive Chef Graham House and his team strive for zero-waste, butchering whole cows in-house, and sourcing from local farmers' markets. Theirs is a crowd-pleasing menu of wood-fired pizza (perhaps topped with lemon, smoked mozzarella and arugula), impressive pastas (bucatini with summer squash, ricotta salata, chili breadcrumb); and hearty main items like bone-in pork chop with cherry mostarda. Basil poundcake with grilled peaches and honey caramel seals the deal.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Chef/owner Jo Lerma-Lopez's love for food is clear in every morsel that emerges from this kitchen. The name, which means "moon" in Spanish, doubles as an acronym reflecting the team's ethos of "L(local) U(unrefined) N(natural) A(authentic)" cooking. Ingredients are carefully sourced: Rancho Gordo beans, Mary's free range-chicken and house-made staples like chorizo, stocks and sauces all play a role. Fresh tortillas are pressed in-house, and the results shine across the menu, whether in crisp Baja-style fish tacos or sizzling parrilladas served with handmade nixtamal corn tortillas and deeply flavored charro beans. The cooking feels vibrant, generous, and rooted in tradition. The lively cantina setting features a full-service bar and an open-air patio. Having earned its stripes as a neighborhood favorite, it's no surprise that a second location is thriving in nearby Campbell.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dim Sum. Few kitchens can prepare a noodle roll quite like this local Alhambra favorite. Rice wrappers filled with gently cooked lobster meat and finished with a subtly sweet soy sauce arrive on a platter set with the lobster shell itself for a presentation that draws attention from all corners. Indeed, this kitchen puts a fine edge on the area’s dim sum scene. There is not a single cart roaming this elegant dining room, which in turn is managed by a team of fast and friendly servers who will ensure that you never leave less than stuffed. Traditionalists will want to end with a rich egg tart, but for a more soothing finale, order the minced pork congee infused with soy, green onions and wonton chips. The restaurant also runs a second location in Pasadena.

Bib Gourmand • Sri Lankan, Indian. Chef/co-owner Albin Vincent, who grew up in Kanyakumari, India with deep roots in Sri Lanka, has penned a love letter to both regions at this Upper East Side restaurant with a contemporary setting. Chef Vincent learned to cook at his grandmother's knee, mastering the art of traditional Sri Lankan and Southern Indian dishes like pan-fried spicy kingfish served on a banana leaf with fried makrut lime leaves or kothu roti, a classic Sri Lankan specialty comprised of roti, meat, and sauteed vegetables mixed with scrambled eggs. Served with raita and a small side of curry with shredded chicken, it's not to be missed. For dessert, mashed carrots cooked down with warming spices and tossed with raisins and cashews is a sweet finale.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. It’s hard to order poorly at this delightful retreat. The menu is concise, with half of the items dedicated to the eponymous specialty. Indeed, this narrow hot spot has been a city-wide favorite since it opened in 2001 and continues to draw lines so long that servers leave a sign-in sheet outside. The secret to their success? Discipline. While many spots make dumplings ahead of time and freeze them, this kitchen starts fresh every morning.It’s best to begin slowly with a tray of boiled pork and celery jiaozi—the wrapping smooth to the touch and boasting just the right amount of bite. Anything pan-fried, though, is the main draw. From juicy pork to fresh chives, these little parcels of goodness have few equals.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Many diners walking into East End's shiny Capitol Crossing development already know what they’re ordering. Chef David Deshaies' 40-layer lasagna has captivated the city’s attention and rightfully so. Tender short rib, truffled mornay, and razor-thin sheets of pasta make for a delicious trinity that tastes as good as it looks.With soaring ceilings and windows to match, this Italian kitchen has plenty more to offer. A wood-burning grill and pizza oven allude to its other strengths—sit at the counter to watch them fly out. Bucatini cacio e pepe or gnocchi with meaty lamb ragu are just a few of the dishes that satisfy. Do save room for dessert, especially the seasoned lime mousse with black currant sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Californian. Charm is in abundant supply at this popular gathering place, from the name and décor (both of which honor an owner's beloved dog) to the easygoing, friendly staff. But it's more than just window dressing that draws in the crowds. A focused menu highlights excellent local seafood with a simple-yet-satisfying approach that blends Californian and Iberian cuisine, and the results are undeniably delicious. Case in point is the crispy, meaty swordfish schnitzel, served with salsa verde and creamy tonnato sauce alongside a salad of caper berries and shaved fennel, for a winningly bright, briny combination. Raw items like oysters and simple crudos are a great way to start, and an assortment of natural wines and gin-based cocktails provide top-notch accompaniments.

Bib Gourmand • Italian-American. With its tall mirrors, tiled walls and tin ceilings, this rustic Italian eatery is every inch the classic trattoria. Hidden in plain sight just across from Grand Central Market, it is a known quantity with the local crowd, who fill these tables at all times of day. A few bites, and you'll be ready to pledge allegiance to the Republic, too.The array of excellent handmade pastas is seemingly endless, like long, tubular strands of bigoli della nonna, headlinng an impeccably balanced angus-and-sausage ragout. Then, try to pry yourself away from the noodle nexus and savory tomato-based sauces to savor freshly baked olive oil bread, deliciously paired with bites of polpettine di gamberi. Be sure to finish with a creamy affogato and be on your merry way.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Just a short walk from their original food stall, this restaurant's strip mall digs are simple but it's a comfortable, welcoming spot with a tempting menu to boot. As the name suggests, their specialty is noodles, particularly boat noodles with a thick, intense broth and your choice of pork or beef, noodle type, and spice level. Fret not if you can't decide, as the bowls are small and ordering two or more varieties might just be the perfect compromise. Don't skip out on their stir-fried dishes, such as the boldly spiced chili holy basil with ground pork, bell peppers, and green beans. For dessert, choose from coconut ice cream or kanom tuay, a two-layer custard featuring a green layer infused with fresh pandan leaf, and a white layer with coconut.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Childhood friends who grew up north of Bangkok end up in Boston for college. It's not the plot of a cinematic hit; it's the story behind Mahaniyom. This Brookline Village spot, with seating for just two dozen, packs a punch with a highly original menu of Thai small plates and creative cocktails (sip the Mahaniyom Sazerac with Thai tea-infused rye). Dishes to consider include yum som-o, or pomelo salad, a seasonal treat featuring grilled tiger prawns arranged with diced citrus segments, roasted cashews and toasted coconut. Kang pu is a decadent bowlful of house-made red curry in rich coconut milk with crabmeat and rice vermicelli, as well as shredded cabbage and bean sprouts for a lovely contrast of freshness and crunch.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. Credit to chef-owner Erik Bruner-Yang and his team for keeping it fresh, as it were. On ever-changing H Street, this long-favored restaurant at first looks like a clothing store with its glittering display cases lined with chic merch. More impressive, though, is what’s on the menu: A diverse, ambitious, and consistently satisfying roster of dishes inspired by flavors from across Asia. Everything here is designed to share, starting with Cantonese-style shrimp dumplings dressed in Cambodian fish sauce and garnished with dill. What’s next? A Thai-spicy riff on pork laab with bone marrow? An imposing boulder of crispy fried chicken laced in five-spice caramel? There are no rules, no borders, in this house, and diners wouldn’t want it any other way.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. What began as a pop-up back in NYC, where owners and married couple Doris Yuen and Kenneth Wan first met, and then became a stall in a Denver food hall, is now at last a full-service restaurant. The winsome, colorful space and the compact menu both celebrate the pair's Chinese American roots, both having been raised by immigrant families who worked in restaurants. Fried crab and cheese wontons and hand-shaped chicken and chive potstickers are inspired by Chinatown favorites and takeout staples, made with particular care and big flavor. Chicken wings with a spicy, tingly málà seasoning are favorites with good reason, and larger dishes, like the familiar-yet-inventive corned beef fried rice or spicy garlic butter rice cakes, impress as well.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Mala Pata brings a taste of Mexico to Gateway Plaza. This upbeat spot has a lively vibe that spills over to the cocktail bar next door. Plan to start or end your evening with a mezcal mule or pisco sour.As for the food, Mala Pata takes ingredients quite seriously, importing corn from Oaxaca and grinding it in house to make their own tortillas, tostadas and chips. Sip a cocktail and order one of the botanas (snacks) like guacamole or Colombian bunuelos. Of course, tacos are a must and include fish and meat varieties. Whole market fish and beef to share are also available.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. From Katy to Sugarland to Montrose, this Sichuan restaurant has spread its wings across the Houston area and beyond. The story begins at the original location, which opened in 2011 in Bellaire’s Chinatown. Whereas many Sichuan restaurants submerge everything in pools of chili oil, this kitchen takes a more measured approach. And true to its name, dishes boast a distinct thread of tangy bitterness and tongue-numbing heat but never so much that you’ll sweat. Don't ignore the classics like wonderfully balanced kung pao with soft juicy chicken, pork belly with broccoli or lotus root with a truly delicious sweet and sour sauce. Be sure to bring an appetite, as the portions are very generous.

Bib Gourmand • Californian. The name means “clever” or “cunning,” but you don’t have to be a particularly sharp tool to appreciate the ample charms of this hip, easygoing Seaside gem. The staff is effortlessly hospitable, and the breezy space has a chic loft aesthetic, but it’s the cooking that really makes this place a coup de coeur. The menu draws on Italian-American and French classics (think chicken parm and asparagus with hollandaise), but the feel is thoroughly Californian, with a light, contemporary touch and spectacular local ingredients that make even all-too familiar dishes like Caesar salad memorable—a testament to Chef Klaus Georis’s extensive experience in fine dining. To drive home the point, finish with a spot-on tarte tatin, served warm with softly whipped cream.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Contemporary. Opened by a husband-and-wife team just a few doors down from their wine shop (Bay Grape), this alluring spot has that simple yet chic look down pat. Envision a dark green ceiling, brass-and-glass chandeliers, and live plants scattered throughout. The premise is simple—a reasonably priced, three-course dinner and there are no reservations. Choose one of two options for each course—like a soup or salad tailed by pasta and dessert. Items change often, but one constant is house-made pasta dressed with a hearty tomato sugo featuring braised pork and beef, which also served as the inspiration behind this establishment. The wine list is full of interesting labels and employs symbols for easier navigation.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Turkish. Founded by Ahmet Erkaya and Anastasia Koutsioukis, this charming bistro welcomes diners with a blue door and whitewashed façade. The space features wood tables, lacquered chairs and an outdoor bar, although the focus is on its courtyard dining area, enhanced with mature trees, orchids and electric fans. This mezze-heavy menu may unveil a creamy slab of baked feta with diced tomato, smoked chili flakes and Turkish peppers. Slices of house-baked bread, stuffed into small brown paper bags, accompany the excellent small plates. Salads, a grilled catch-of-the-day sandwich and larger items, like beef souvlaki, are equally beloved. A wedge of honey pie with a salted shortbread crust is highly recommended, and pairs delightfully with that Turkish coffee.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. When Raul Ortega started his taco truck in Boyle Heights back in 2001, he probably had no idea just how hard the city would fall for him. Today his Jalisco-inspired tacos have become a rite of passage, and he now runs a number of trucks around town, not to mention this modest but cherished spot in Pomona. The menu is the same everywhere, limited to tostadas piled with various lime-kissed ceviches. Inside tip: opt for his signature fried shrimp taco tinged with spicy salsa and creamy avocado slices. It's an unequaled version, complete with a crunchy shell that collapses like tempura, as well as a rich and savory filling. First-time customers start with a single order, while regulars get right to business with a whole plate of them.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. A long-standing favorite for mouth-numbing Sichuan specialties, Masterpiece is a bit out of the way in Duluth in an unassuming strip mall but it's worth the drive. Inside, it's appointed with light tile floors, while creamy yellow walls are lined with red "leather" booths but make no mistake: You're here for the food not the feels. The hearty Sichuan food is served family style with care and focus shown in dishes like dong po pork, a square of meltingly tender pork belly in a dark brown sauce that is sweet and vibrant. Meanwhile, skinned eggplant sliced into thick matchsticks really showcases the kitchen's skills. Lightly fried and dusted with chili powder and pepper ash powder for a fiery kick, these treats have a gorgeous crunch and a creamy center.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, American. With burnt orange banquettes, handsome tile floors and a covered patio that looks out across West University, this cozy charmer is more than just a watering hole for refreshing margaritas and chilled lagers. The finely curated menu is packed with delicious ideas inspired by both Texan and Mexican traditions. Tortillas are nixtamalized and pressed in-house so start with a mushroom taco loaded with tempura-fried mushrooms and a sunflower seed chili crisp. Other hits include roasted oysters with green garlic butter, grilled cucumbers with charred jalapeño yogurt, and a superb smoked pork chop buried under a spicy peanut macha. Not in the mood to choose? The restaurant offers a friendly tasting menu that’s agreeably priced.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Californian. Culinary devotees flock to Aptos for its deluxe food spots, boutique coffee shops, and supermarkets aplenty. Jumping on the bandwagon is this delicious operation with a single mission—to churn out the most memorable and addictive pizzas in town.Soft hues, dark green-framed doors, and a barn-like structure foster a communal sense. The carte is unusual, unveiling fried sardines with Meyer lemon aïoli or white bean soup with chickpeas in a prosciutto broth. Taking the cake however are pizzas, like the "Pesto" shimmering with fromage blanc, Crescenza, and caciocavallo, or Sardenaira with tomato sauce, anchovies, and olives. If great pizza is the stuff of dreams, you may want to skip the house-made pistachio ice cream. But, is that a risk worth taking?

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Ramen. Once a pop-up and now a full-fledged brick-and-mortar establishment, this young'un is making waves in the city’s ramen scene. The kitchen runs the length of this sleek, narrow space in Petworth; and the young chefs running it move about with the deftness of a team many years older. They are as focused as the menu, which is all ramen except for the karaage served with yuzu mayo.Carefully composed bowls feature thin, chewy, house-made noodles accompanied by delicate broths with nuance and depth. The signature bowl is a smoky, triple-threat combination of tonkotsu, chicken chintan and dashi. The soy-sauce-based truffle shoyu, which also features meaty cuts of pork belly, spinach and bamboo shoots, warrants slurping. Vegan ramen is also available.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, American. Mercardo sin Nombre means "nameless market," but this place in East Austin shouldn't be overlooked. Their name is intentional, choosing to focus on the farmers and growers instead of trumpeting themselves. Walk down an alley decked out with cafe lights and wires strung with flowers to order at their window. The tightly focused menu is an exploration of heirloom Mexican corn and specialty coffee. Pastries are a highlight; a masa twinkie is an upscale riff made with blue masa, filled with chocolate and fermented chili ganache and piped campfire fluff on top. Their biscuit, which takes 100 hours to make, may be ordered toasted with espresso butter and smoky tangy green tomato jam or prepared as a breakfast sandwich. Masa pancakes, burritos and a few specials are also on offer.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. In a city brimming with Mexican restaurants, Mezquite zigs while others zag. Don't expect the typical Tex-Mex here. Instead, this restaurant in Pullman Market with a sun-bleached, desert-inspired decor spotlights hyper-regional Sonoran cooking. The menu begins with seafood and ceviche along with a section devoted to tortilla y más. Offering an array of spreads like cebolla asada with grilled onion, chili toreado and black garlic accompanied by paper-thin flour tortillas. Pick a protein, perhaps the free-range chicken with pipian rojo, which comes with a flurry of sides sized for sharing. Rich flan is the ultimate ending.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Boasting a lively, charming ambience; friendly, knowledgeable service; and a delicious menu courtesy of Chef/owner Diana Dávila, Mi Tocaya is a welcome addition to the burgeoning Logan Square food scene. Bring friends, order a clever seasonal cocktail, try something from the menu and you’ll no doubt leave with a renewed love for Mexican cuisine. The short but intriguing listing of “small cravings” (antojitos) is influenced by the less-explored Aztec cuisine. Sample dishes like guisado de nopalitos, a fragrant, earthy stew with cactus, zucchini and charred chilies, served with delicious knobs of salt-dusted fried cheese curds and warm corn tortillas. But don’t overlook the warm tacos, sure to transport you to the streets of Mexico City.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, American. This Design District pioneer from Chef Michael Schwartz is as popular now as it was when it first debuted almost 20 years ago. A well-heeled crowd flocks here, but whether it's a requisite respite from boutique hopping, a spot to catch up with friends or a meal to close a business deal, this dining delight is for everyone. The courtyard is a lovely place to linger, thanks to its lush greenery, fans and heat lamps (when necessary). The interior space features concrete flooring and an inviting bar. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients sourced locally, featured in an array of confident cooking like wood-fired pizza, house-made pasta, crudo and oven-roasted chicken.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Regional Cuisine. Is East Austin's Micklethwait Craft Meats good? Take one look at the crowd, with everyone from police officers and parents with kids to well-dressed locals, and it's a sure sign that this place is on point. Owner Tom Micklethwait is a master at central Texas-style barbecue, doling out luscious meat from ribs and brisket to sausage, pulled pork, and lamb. Juicy, smoky, spicy, and sweet, it's all good, no matter your selection. While it would be a sacrilege to skip the meat, the sides, including jalapeño cheese grits, and a standout potato salad dressed with cider vinegar, are good enough on their own to warrant a visit. You'll be stuffed, but there's always room for banana pudding, isn't there?

Bib Gourmand • Fusion, Mexican. A young, high-energy crowd filters through this Bucktown hotspot night after night, their excitement matching the tenor of a kitchen cooking at full throttle. From dum biryani with lamb barbacoa to scallop ceviche packed into crispy fenugreek roti shells, this cross-cultural menu weaves Mexican and Indian narratives in a vibrantly convincing manner. Smooth chutneys, fiery salsas, and carefully calibrated spices make for bold plates that never shy away from flavor. Share everything, starting with a mezze of dips featuring housemade achar and salsa tatemado. The attractive dining room boasts exposed white brick, a banquette stretching the length of the space, and an open kitchen. Tight tables and loud beats further fuel a party that’s worth repeating.

Bib Gourmand • Israeli, Middle Eastern. Many stylish Middle Eastern restaurants have opened in recent years, but few have come close to putting a dent in the crowds that rush to Miss Ada nightly. This Fort Greene charmer features a cozy dining room, a darling backyard patio and garden, and a keen menu packed with dips, meats, and veggies. Whipped ricotta with brown butter, sage, and honey is a sweet staple, as is the fantastic hummus topped with tender lamb shawarma. Sharing is the name of the game here, from the vibrant market salads to charred skewers like kofta with pine nut, short rib with cabbage, and halloumi with green tahini. All of it arrives properly seasoned and spiced from a shockingly small kitchen. Though reservations are scarce, walk-ins can find refuge at the bar.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Contemporary. Who is not having a great time at Mister Mao? Miles away from the French Quarter in Uptown, find a lively dining room painted top to bottom in bubblegum pink and emerald green. The colorful setting is as vibrant and upbeat as the cooking. This is not food that fits into a tidy box, as inspiration leans Asian and Indian with detours all over. Fried chicken dumplings with date and poblano chile chutney are as satisfying as garlicky egg noodles glossed in butter, oyster and fish sauce, and Parmesan. Kale and collards cooked down with cumin, turmeric and coconut milk is a cross-cultural sensation. Clever and flavorful, the food here is both fun and accomplished. Weekend brunch is the perfect time for large groups to order with abandon.

Bib Gourmand • Latin American. It's laid-back and lively at Mister Oso, a small but stylish spot with a creative menu and clever cooking. Chef/owner Blake Edmunds has a hit on his hands, with a second location opening in recent years. While tacos may be the main event, this isn't your typical taqueria menu. Instead, discover ceviches, salads and dishes bearing Latin American and international influences. Everything is served family style. Pick up a tortilla and start building a delicious treat, as in the smoked lamb cheek tacos with pickled red onion and grilled shishito peppers that's finished with a bright and zesty avocado salsa. Coconut rice, served in a piping hot cast iron dish, bridges sweet and savory thanks to pickled shaved peppers and thin, shaved red onion.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. This elder member of David Chang’s culinary empire is hipper and hotter than ever. A honey-toned temple of updated comfort food, decked with wood counters and a sparkling open kitchen, the service here may be brisk. But rest assured, as the menu is gutsy and molded with Asian street food in mind.Those steamed buns have amassed a gargantuan following thanks to decadent fillings like moist pork loin kissed with Hollandaise and chives. Additionally, that bowl of springy noodles doused in a spicy ginger-scallion sauce is just one instance of the crew’s signature work. Other items, including desserts like candy apple truffle, are beautifully crafted and rightfully elevated to global fame.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Regional Cuisine. High school sweethearts Andrew and Michelle Muñoz are living a dream come true. What started out as a backyard hobby smoking meats on weekends has transformed into a full-fledged restaurant in Lincoln Heights. Longtime fans will be happy to know that the handsome space, equipped with a bar packed with craft beer, hasn’t affected what the Muñozs' do best. Smoky, salt-and-pepper-crusted brisket and snappy, spicy sausages packed with cheddar and jalapeños pay homage to the barbecue traditions of Austin, Texas. Sides like Mexican street corn or tres leches bread pudding are a nod to their heritage. Altogether, this is the kind of food that demands a post-meal nap. And just as it was in the beginning, there is always a line stretching out the front door.

Bib Gourmand • American. It's strictly breakfast and brunch only at this Little Italy spot, which isn't however just for the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. The playful décor may look feminine with its plush booths, pink-and-green marble floors and a champagne vending machine, but look closer and you'll find a few skulls and dark touches. Inside, it's always jumping and there's a wait, so plan ahead.It's all about familiar-seeming favorites and of-the-moment meals—hello, avocado toast and shakshuka. Fluffy soufflé pancakes are worth waking up for, and fried rice with pork belly plus two eggs with runny yolks is a great riff on tradition. The dirty scallop slice is a thick rectangle of potatoes au gratin fried to golden, then doused in rich sausage gravy for next-level enjoyment.

Bib Gourmand • Bakery, Contemporary. Find this charming establishment housed in a former garage in the South Slope district. The flat-roofed structure with its white painted brick exterior beckons with ample outdoor seating, while a wide garage door is left open to create a pleasant indoor/outdoor vibe.Heidi Bass is Mother's master baker and her passion for sourdough bloomed during the pandemic, leading to a successful home operation and now this thriving venture. Her partner here, Brett Watson, handles the wine program. Patrons come to purchase loaves of bread baked in-house; or stay to soak in the vibes for lunch or dinner. Items like the daily quiche, salads and sandwiches segue to hamachi crudo, seasonally embellished risotto and seared prawns with local grits.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion, Contemporary. Offerings at this hip haven in Bucktown crisscross the globe. Chef Edward Kim has a vivid imagination and his cooking takes detours through delicious landscapes, pulling off a rare feat of cooking delicious Midwest/Asian food with a touch of novelty. Take the crispy cauliflower, for one. These wok-fried cauliflower florets are crisp and juicy, then served with a sweet and tangy chili sauce, Szechuan peppercorn and coriander for a savory dish that's both warm and wonderful. Garlic fried rice may be simple and to the point but it's oh-so-good with pungent garlic and flavorful seasoning. Do keep an eye out for the special Chinese New Year menu.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Italian. This laid-back neighborhood spot is not to be underestimated. The unfussy dining room, which is often full, is balanced by a serious kitchen where chefs deploy top-rate ingredients and carefully manage puffy, charred Roman-style pizzas cooked in electric deck ovens. Oblong in shape and perfect for solo diners, the pies have a fantastic, bubble-like crunch to them; a favorite is the diavola sbagliata, which pairs spicy Italian salami, spicy Italian honey and smoked scamorza. And whereas some pizzerias have only one talent, this one also has a keen hand with pastas, all of which are made in-house. Think tagliatelle tossed with basil pesto, ravioli stuffed with roasted eggplant and a squid ink spaghetti cooked with clams and white wine.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. This beloved Sichuan haunt now counts multiple locations across the city, but everything started at the East Village original. The winding, cavernous setting includes a communal table, exposed brick, and low ceilings. Dinner could go in any numbers of directions. Some opt for the dry pot in which diners customize their ingredients—meat, seafood, vegetables, rice—and degree of spiciness. The possibilities here are nearly infinite. Those who aren’t up for making so many decisions swing for Sichuan classics. Recent highlights include the cold husband and wife appetizer (braised beef and tripe), warm dan dan noodles, and a particularly elegant white fish with pickled vegetables. Nothing is an intense barn-burner in terms of spiciness.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion, Vietnamese. You could easily drive right by this standalone building tucked behind an auto repair shop, but one bite of Chef Peja Krstic's cooking and you won't soon forget the address. Inside, wood floors and exposed brick add charm to this narrow space where Serbian-born Krstic turns out contemporary cuisine with Vietnamese and French influences and decidedly Texan touches. The mashup is especially intriguing, offering an interesting journey with dishes such as steamed bao filled with beef brisket and a shallot marmalade, or crispy tempura squash blossoms filled with pork and shrimp with nuoc cham vinaigrette. For dessert, savor the coconut lemongrass panna cotta with orange marmalade and chocolate peanut crumble.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Nadu is the newest spot from Chef Sujan Sarkar, the same chef behind lauded Indienne, with a focus on contemporary, regional Indian cuisine. Expect a warm welcome, and with dishes designed for sharing, the mood is always upbeat. Order with abandon for the table, choosing between vegetarian and non-vegetarian plates. There's plenty to sample, including meen gassi, or walleye in a rich and spicy coconut and tamarind curry infused with dried chilies, turmeric and curry leaves. Vegetable moilee with a light and fragrant coconut curry and a variety of seasonal vegetables is best when accompanied by ghee bhat or naan. Desserts like their apricot delight are the perfect ending. Reservations are suggested but the full-service bar is always available for walk-ins.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. You could make an entire meal out of the appetizers at this beloved restaurant in Little Saigon, where the elegant cuisine of Hue in central Vietnam is front and center. Everyone starts with those little steamed rice cakes topped with fried pork rinds and chives, and some are content to order these until they’re full. But then you’d miss out on the pork and shrimp crystal cakes steamed in banana leaves or that thrilling banh khoai, a crispy rice pancake layered with beansprouts, shrimp and a riot of fresh herbs. Leave room on the table for the grilled flank steak, which arrives wrapped in vine leaves and is served with spongy bundles of vermicelli. The server will say that you’ve ordered too much, which is how you know you’ve ordered just enough.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Creative. This modern, minimalist spot emanates with an impressive level of warmth. Beyond its entrance, find blonde-wood benches set with gray-blue pillows, and two U-shaped counters where temaki, or hand rolls, are front and center, along with Japanese-inspired snacks and sides. Hungry diners will revel in the chef's set, which presents generous, beautifully assembled open-style rolls, perhaps tuna poke with crispy shallots, XO scallop brightened with lemon zest or coconut shrimp with green curry and cilantro, all delivered directly from the crew to the counter. A plant-based section adds thoughtful variety, and vegan options are equally tempting.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. There are no wrong choices at this welcoming EaDo hangout that has dazzled the city since opening in 2017. If anything, there are perhaps too many choices. How could one possibly decide between the spicy beef and butter dumplings with sauerkraut and the fluffy Nancy cakes with smoked trout roe? Should chilled carrots with buttermilk ricotta be your entrée or is it finally time to take down the cheeseburger stacked on a housemade English muffin? But then there’s the grilled wagyu tri-tip with beef fat sticky rice. Whatever you decide, expect lively, bold, heart-warming cooking that keeps a close eye on the seasons and never once feels fussy. Dessert is a given, but good luck picking between the corn crepe cake and the parmesan cheesecake.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dumplings. It is definitely all in the name at this vivacious and cheery spot where dumplings are the star of the show. Watch them being made in the open kitchen, then consult the chalkboard for featured menu items. Scallion pancakes and beef noodle soup make an appearance, but press forward to some of the more offbeat items. Peanut salad is tossed with bright celery and crinkle-cut carrot shavings to deliver a wonderful texture and flavorful crunch, but oh those dumplings. Bursting with traditional fillings or more unusual combinations like sweet corn and chicken or scrambled egg and tomato, these delicious parcels are a meal unto themselves with hearty portions rounding out each order.You'll leave pleasantly stuffed with plenty of cash remaining in your wallet.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen reflects owner Carol Nguyen’s desire to share the flavors of her homeland with Dallas. The welcoming Lower Greenville space features rustic wood accents and subtle nods to Vietnamese tradition, creating a lively, comfortable setting for groups and families alike. The menu draws inspiration from the street food of Hanoi, with a wide range of classic dishes. Generous plates like green papaya salad layered with herbs and house-made beef jerky, as well as hearty noodle bowls topped with chargrilled pork and crisp imperial rolls, highlight the kitchen’s fresh, balanced approach. Portions are ample, flavors are bright and the cooking consistently delivers satisfying, well-prepared fare.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Come as you are, and come early, to this East Austin taqueria from owners and partners Chef Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi. It's a bit scrappy but rewards its visitors with spot-on Mexican-focused cooking. As the name suggests, the menu is all about nixtamalized corn of heirloom varietals, and they roast the corn the day before, then grind it each morning for that day's service. Everything is made in house, and the menu presents a great mix of contrasts, featuring dishes employing ancient methods alongside updated items like duck fat refried beans. The duck carnitas taco, served on a thick tortilla made from heirloom pink corn, is impressive, while the tuna tostada is a study in care and composure. Finish with something bold and sweet like a blueberry, basil and ricotta paleta.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This unassuming taqueria, tucked into a strip mall in Roseville, is a sweet little spot that packs a big flavor punch. The salsa bar alone — featuring four outstanding options, including a smoky peanut chipotle and bright salsa verde — is reason enough to warrant a visit. Nixtamalized corn tortillas arrive warm and supple, ready to cradle generous fillings. Plump shrimp sauteed with serrano, lime and cilantro shine in one taco while slow-braised chicken in salsa verde offers bright tomatillo flavor and tender meat. A shredded short rib barbacoa version, piled high and topped with avocado and black sesame seeds, delivers deeper, smoky richness. There are also vegan options, including the popular elote taco packed with sweet corn tossed in peanut-chipotle salsa.

Bib Gourmand • American. A home away from home, this Montrose favorite is impossible to resist. Set in a charming 1930s bungalow and decorated with vinyl records, the restaurant is as cozy as they come with a staff that treats you like a regular. The food impresses, at once creative and familiar. You could fill up entirely on the superb dilly milk bread with “everything butter” but then you’d miss any one of the creative vegetable offerings like grilled carrots with a coconut curry and peanut sesame crunch. The menu's tempting choices make decision-making difficult, but know that there must be pie, all of which are baked daily. If raspberry cheesecake pie with graham cracker crust is available, go for it.

Bib Gourmand • Italian. You could drive right past this place set within a collection of small businesses off a main highway in Highland Park but keep an eye out for the blind-covered windows emblazoned with "nonna" to avoid missing out. Inside, it's the picture of casual chic down to the last piece of modern art displayed on the exposed brick walls. As for the menu, it's dictated by the seasons and what's available, though the white clam pie from the wood-fired oven and the Maine lobster ravioli are always available (and good thing, too). Pasta is plentiful, with up to 10 different choices on offer, including spaghetti and gnocchi. The all-Italian wine list features an appealing selection of old favorites as well as a few hidden treasures.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Ten years and counting, this easy-going hangout in the East Village has carved out its place as a neighborhood essential. Polaroids of guests cover every inch of wall space in this dimly lit restaurant that serves a fun menu of Hawaiian fare. Start with a platter of musubi featuring the likes of spicy spam, salmon tartare, and summer corn tightly wrapped with nori seaweed and rice. Glazed pork ribs are a meaty, reliable standout, as is the generously portioned mochiko fried chicken platter paired with macaroni salad and, naturally, King’s Hawaiian rolls. Wine lovers will be surprised to find a seriously deep and focused selection of German riesling that spans decades. All the while, a welcoming team keeps the party moving at a steady clip.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Sushi. There are just eight seats at this small counter inside Plant Street Market, where Chef David Tsan works with precision behind the bar. Norigami takes its name from nori (seaweed) and origami (the art of folding paper), and each piece of sushi arrives on a square of colorful washi paper, later folded by guests into cranes for the growing centerpiece bowl.The menu balances accessibility and craft. Fish is handled thoughtfully and paired with bright, modern touches, like goldeneye with tomato powder or scallop brushed with tobanjan aioli and a drop of lime. The rice, perfectly seasoned and loosely packed, holds the meal together with finesse. Whether ordering the ten-piece omakase or a few a la carte selections, Norigami delivers polished, well-priced sushi in a relaxed and genuine setting.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Sicilian. To think of these arancini as mere “rice balls” is a slight on Sicilian cuisine; they are so much more. Nowhere else in the city will you dine on such crisp, classic beauties—filled with ragù, peas, mozzarella and rice cooked in chicken stock, then presented in a pool of light tomato sauce. Rest assured though as the menu goes on to list other authentic and deliciously rendered items, including the 'rianata pizza of Trapani.The rustic space is filled with old, crackle-glazed platters that probably held the exact style of the rich anelletti al forno, back in the Old Country. Before you leave, stock up on specialty ingredients that are strategically displayed for sale.

Bib Gourmand • Malaysian. Nyonya flaunts a comfy setting composed of brick walls and basic wood tables, but really, everyone’s here for their outstanding Malaysian food. Speedy servers steer diners through the varied menu—and perhaps even away from such delicacies as prawn mee, an exceptionally spiced and sour shrimp broth with noodles, pork, vegetables and bean sprouts floating in its goodness. Some know to stick to such faithful and deeply satisfying dishes as nasi lemak, which is a delightful combo of coconut rice, pickled veggies, crispy anchovies, curried chicken and hard-boiled egg. The chow kueh teow, with stir-fried noodles, tiger prawns and squid, is a go-to dish, while coconut batter-fried jumbo prawns are another winner.

Bib Gourmand • American, Contemporary. Chef Bryce Gilmore of Barley Swine has turned his hit food truck into this popular spot on South Lamar. It's a casual, come-as-you-are concept where guests can pull up a stool at the massive counter or at a nearby table. Everyone is here for the hearty, decadent American fare designed for sharing. Dressed down with a rustic edge, their Southern dishes with global inflections range from ceviche and chicken heart satay to wagyu burgers and stuffed quail with dirty rice and grilled okra. Maltagliati pasta tossed with corn butter and a surprising shrimp sausage is memorable, while meat-forward dishes, like the impossibly tender pork shoulder, are always a hit. Don't skip the sourdough ice cream with pecan streusel and warm diced peaches.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. What more could you want out of this little charmer in East Village? Always on the move, Hand Hospitality delivers again with a nicely pitched and portioned set menu of comforting Korean flavors. Find sleek degrees of refinement in winners like asparagus and lobster resting in a chilled pine nut sauce or snow crab wrapped in a thin cigar of daikon and set in a warm crab broth. All entrees like grilled duck with endive and black garlic puree come with banchan and a welcome bowl of rice and soup, which are kept warm in three cauldrons at the bar up front. Dessert is extra but worth ordering: A generous scoop of misugaru ice cream with rice caramel and cookie crumble is a sweet finale in this narrow, minimalist dining room.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Izakaya. Can’t afford to indulge in the exquisite sushi at Omakase? Consider heading to its next-door little sib, where the fish is still top-notch (it’s all sourced from Japan) but the atmosphere is more laid-back. Okane draws lots of nearby Adobe and Zynga employees at lunch and big groups at dinner, all sharing bottles of sake and making the most of the small-plates menu. Sushi is, of course, a must: the nigiri is pristine and delicious. But don’t sleep on the non-sushi dishes—cod marinated in sake lees is grilled to perfection, and broiled salmon aburi with avocado and ikura is delicious too.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Olmo has a true neighborhood feel, where communal tables encourage new friendships, and light wood and plenty of white create a soothing ambience. The food is inspired by Mexico City with a focus on nostalgic, approachable flavors. Find everything from chicharrón preparado and eggplant milanesa to lacto-fermented crudités on this menu. There are so many winning dishes, but the grilled branzino over a bed of stewed beans with a colorful circle of morita salsa is surely one to consider. Carne asada is another can't miss, with a 12-ounce steak topped with a bright salad of verdolaga greens and shaved fennel, but it's that smoky chipotle bearnaise that steals the show. The flan paleta drizzled with caramel hits all the right notes.

Bib Gourmand • International, Fusion. Jeffrey Stout has clearly settled in to his position at the helm of this international gem, packed with a crowd of loyal fans, despite its rather modest shopping-center locale. Polished yet casual with a large front bar and patio, a meal here is best enjoyed with a group—so come prepared to max out the menu.Dishes may spin in various directions, but this team won't steer your wrong. Kick off with a cocktail; then tuck into fresh hamachi enriched with avocado-dill purée, persimmon, and deliciously tart sunomono. Garnished with peanuts and served with chili oil, those delicate shrimp-and-pork dumplings are an evergreen hit. For dessert, olive oil cake with lime-brittle popcorn and roasted corn custard delivers a pleasing contrast in flavor and texture.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Housed within a brick storefront across from the City College of New York, this welcoming little spot is a true neighborhood gem, thanks to a concise, well-conceived menu, which draws inspiration from the street food of Mexico City. A Dia de los Muertos mural marks the wall opposite the open kitchen, where you’ll see industrious cooks working the grill and pressing house-made corn tortillas at a steady clip, which helps explain why they’re always so wonderfully tender and fresh. The tacos, like a spot-on al pastor, are of course excellent, as are homey offerings like braised chicken salsa verde enchiladas, smothered in melted queso Oaxaca. Save room for irresistible churros, served with chocolate- and cinnamon-caramel sauces.

Bib Gourmand • Cuban, American. This tiny but oh-so-sweet space recalls the charm of Old Florida with its whitewashed brick walls and white tile floors. Billed as a neighborhood rum bar, Otto's High Dive is on point at every turn, from the genuine service to the unfussy but well-executed food. The kitchen delivers a concise edit of Floridian/Cuban fare with oodles of tropical elements. Begin with oysters before moving on to an array of cold and hot plates ranging from a shrimp cocktail that's all grown up with its thick "Bloody Mary" sauce to chicken mojo and ropa vieja with sides like rice and beans. Cinnamon bread pudding topped with a delightfully tangy cream cheese whip is a memorable sign-off. Rum is all around, from the Cuba Libre on tap to the daiquiris available by the pitcher.

Bib Gourmand • Californian. On the fringes of the city, this charmingly rustic salvaged wood retreat is a beloved neighborhood stalwart. Noteworthy above all for baking some of the best bread in the city, sourdough devotees are known to make the pilgrimage from far and wide to partake in the crusty, mahogany-hued levain, served in thick slices with house-cultured butter (loaves are also available to purchase). Beyond the obligatory bread, the small seasonal menu features commendable ingredients served in a simple, hearty style that allows their quality to shine, whether its roasted chicken with market vegetables, or a slow-cooked ragu Bolognese with springy tagliatelle. On weekends, brunch follows a similar formula, with the addition of excellent pastries like a signature sticky bun.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish, Latin American. From the parking lot, you can smell the sweet smoke that billows out of the restaurant’s two roaring, wood-burning ovens. In what feels like a backyard oasis fit with a spacious patio, find a hazy, sun-lit dining room where Chef Chris Hastings pulls inspiration from Spain and Latin America. Much of the food is cooked in cast-iron skillets. From Spanish omelets dotted with chorizo vinaigrette to charred empanadas to finely-seared scallops set in ajo blanco sauce, the tapas-style menu does not shy away from flavor and is fully designed for sharing. For dessert, spiced molasses crème brûlée makes for a sweet send-off.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This well-liked mainstay of DC Mexican cuisine comes courtesy of Spanish Chef Jose Andres, whose typical dedication to flavorful cooking and high-quality ingredients still draws brisk business. Snag a seat at the entertaining ceviche bar and sip thirst-quenching drinks while snacking on small plates.The kitchen's dedication to technique and ingredients is clear, with a particular penchant for regionally inflected Mexican cuisine like huevos enfrijoladas, crispy chilaquiles, and gorditas topped with Hudson Valley duck confit. Don’t miss the tarasca estilo pátzcuaro though, an otherworldly black bean soup with avocado leaves, swirls of crema, and crumbled cotija. A special hora feliz menu makes the early evening hours very happy indeed.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Spanish. Chef Tracy Chang’s flagship restaurant has been a Cambridge mainstay since the day it opened in 2017. With a fun menu that takes cues from both Spain as well as countries across Asia, the cooking delivers quality ingredients, bold flavors, and the right amount of care. Think patatas bravas with mojo verde, tempura-fried string beans with Thai chili hot sauce, crab laksa with ramen noodles and poached shrimp, and fluffy baos stuffed with pork belly. For dessert, there must be chocolate cake, a gluten-free, vegan-friendly effort made with tofu that disappears in a flash. From countless community initiatives to cooking classes and whole suckling pig dinners, this is a thoughtful restaurant that doesn’t sit still.

Bib Gourmand • American. Close to the heart of West Palm Beach in a contemporary space that's part gourmet market/retailer and part restaurant, Eric and Meghan San Pedro's spot is, no surprise, all about meat. However, it's not just any meat, it's exclusively wagyu, sourced from Japan, Australia, and the U.S. That said, the space is more casual than might be expected with wood tables and caramel leather chairs, plus a tongue-in-cheek "Nice to Meat You" sign. The small menu spans everything from a wagyu pastrami and fried egg breakfast sandwich and he ever-popular wagyu burger to a PB&J with wagyu tallow peanut butter and seasonal jam on milk bread. It may be compact, but it's creative, with Filipino-leaning dishes (wagyu lumpia and wagyu tapa over garlic rice with a fried egg and atchara), a wagyu burrito with tots, and even a Nutella brownie made with beef tallow to finish.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Hiding in a food hall in the heart of downtown Houston, this unassuming, counter-service taqueria means business. Chef-owners Stephanie Velasquez and Nicolas Vera work wonders with the little space they have and offer some of the city’s most gratifying tacos. Tortillas are made on-site and griddled all day long. Chicharrón with pumpkin seed vinaigrette is an absolute stunner. Pork shoulder braised in tomatillo salsa is as hearty as the veggie-forward confit carrot dressed in a nutty pepita salsa.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Holden Fulco, who spent time at Franklin, Interstellar and other well-known places, is the force behind this barbecue spot in a stationary trailer that's located behind Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches. It's a simple set-up outdoors with picnic tables, and there are plenty of seats indoors too. Discover a bit of Creole on this central Texas-style barbecue menu, where spice rubs are enhanced with Cajun spices, Tabasco works its way into glazes and meat offerings include the usual suspects like tender brisket alongside ham, pulled duck, and a snappy boudin. Like any good barbecue spot worth its salt, the sides are especially tempting, with everything from pimento mac & cheese topped with crumbled Zapp's potato chips; crawfish cornbread stuffing; and Creole tomato salad.

Bib Gourmand • Deli, Creole. Like many places in New Orleans, Parkway Bakery and Tavern has a storied history, first opening for business in 1911. Current owner Jay Nix purchased it in 1995 and has kept the legacy strong. Parkway is designed for a crowd, both inside and out, and the crowds come. It's a neighborhood gathering place where people come to have a few drinks, catch a Saints game and eat poor boy sandwiches and other traditional fare like jambalaya. The menu is large but it's mostly single-minded, with seafood, specialty and meat poor boys on offer. Overwhelmed by the options? You'll never go wrong with the Creole barbecue shrimp. Breaded and fried shrimp layered in a New Orleans French roll; it's the ultimate classic.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Regional Cuisine. Thanks to its modern setting and late hours (by San Mateo standards, at least), a growing crowd of smart couples and tech types flock to this San Mateo sweetie. Everyone is here for the authentic Italian eats from Chef/co-owner Andrea Giuliani, who dishes up the cuisine of his native Veneto.The dining room has a view of the charcuterie-aging room and those artistically presented salumi boards of fennel-flecked finocchiona and exceptional salame al parmigiano. The wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are equally strong—try the porchetta variation, topped with gorgonzola and radicchio. Of course, the pastas don’t disappoint either: spinach spaghetti amatriciana with house-cured guanciale, piennolo tomatoes, calabrian chilies, and pecorino is downright perfect.

Bib Gourmand • American. It may seem impossible to be even more charming than its Solvang surroundings, but peasants FEAST doubles down, and delivers. This daytime-only café from Michael and Sarah Cherney spotlights the seasons on its sandwich-driven menu. There's nothing ho-hum about what's between the bread here. Instead, the cooking is all heart and the selections show off a unique creativity (cue the pastrami smoked salmon sandwich). A cup of soup is the ideal partner—the carrot soup finished with Calabrian chili oil is a gratifying choice. Specials always deserve a glance, since items like the delectable beet greens grilled cheese appear daily. Dashing off to the next winery? Pop across the street to peasants DELI for picnic-ready rations.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish. At first glance, it might be easy to dismiss this rambunctious restaurant set at the base of a nondescript apartment building in East Nashville. But don’t be fooled: You’ll be convinced otherwise at first bite. Broadly focused on the Iberian Peninsula, the cooking is creative and pulls influences from around the globe for its tapas-style dishes. Buckle up for plates powered by character that take unexpected twists and turns, as in a bold opener of endive, fried and covered in a koji foam with a burnt onion powder, or a clever beet starter paired with roasted garlic. The smart cooking continues all the way through to dessert, where mochi doughnuts covered in bright red marzipan make for an enticing finale.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. This particular stretch that runs along the southern edge of Bryant Park sports an unusual number of Sichuan restaurants. Among them, Peppercorn Station is easy to spot, standing out with its cheery, brightly lit interior. The menu runs a decent length and offers a comfortable collection of favorites designed for sharing. Fish fillet with pickled cabbage is a must-order with its golden, numbing broth, as is the mapo tofu that’s been turbo-charged with fermented black beans. Sliced pork belly with garlic-chili sauce is a classic starter. Far from aggressive, this efficient kitchen is fairly even keeled when it comes to chilis and spice levels, and seasons just enough to nudge the sinuses. The restaurant has a second location in Jersey City.

Bib Gourmand • Korean, American. This prime location welcomes diners with a mural of former First Lady, Michelle Obama, dressed in a hanbok. Inside, the vibe is cozy with an urbane simplicity. Imagine a smattering of artwork, greenery, and edgy light fixtures. Large windows with views of a buzzy street and a semi-open kitchen reinforces that sleek city feel. Chef Andrew Lim's forte lies in his contemporary take on familiar Korean food. Here you will find tables spread with delicious banchan, tailed by Wagyu beef tartare accented with Asian pear. Kimchi stew with glass noodles; fire chicken with Chihuahua cheese; and even that classic fried chicken gets a spin in this kitchen—the latter with ranch and pickled radish.In lieu of dessert, go for the special and thoughtful tea cellar menu.

Bib Gourmand • Portuguese, Regional Cuisine. Petiscos are as much a cultural reference as they are a small snack accompanied by drinks. They're fun and approachable—designed to be shared among good friends and family—so it goes without saying that this spot, complete with a bar, knows how to welcome guests. Authentically prepared dishes highlight the flavors of Portugal and feature imported ingredients. The rustic, home-style cooking includes favorites such as broa, a traditional cornbread, and lupini beans, codfish croquettes and a tender octopus salad that is a meal unto itself. Slivers of braised pig ears are tossed with a lively citrus and herb dressing and perfectly paired with cilantro and parsley, and the golden-brown grilled sardines are a pleasure.

Bib Gourmand • Tibetan. Momos are a point of pride at this Tibetan mainstay in the heart of vibrant Roosevelt Avenue. Large, generously filled and well-pleated, these dumplings arrive steaming hot, packed with juicy beef and bright scallions, and make a compelling case on their own. Still, it would be a mistake to stop there. Stir-fried noodles with beef showcase chewy strands and well-cooked batons of meat tossed with crisp vegetables, while dishes like chicken with peanuts deliver caramelized onions, garlic and peppers in a savory stir-fry. Even simpler accompaniments, such as steamed tingmo bread, round out the meal. Portions are generous, flavors lively and there’s chili oil and a particularly ferocious hot sauce on the table for fearless spice hounds. For newcomers, a photo-filled menu makes navigating the breadth of offerings easy, but regulars know it’s hard to go wrong here.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. It may not look like much from the outside, but there’s a reason that pho lovers flock to this unassuming strip-mall operation. The staff and ambience do offer an above-average level of charm, but it’s the cooking, made with apparent care and high-quality ingredients, that really sets it apart. Naturally, pho is the main event here, offered in a variety of sizes and featuring either chicken or beef broth, both long-simmered and deeply flavorful, to be decked out with accompaniments ranging from tender meats to house-made pork wontons. Fried crab and cream cheese wontons are also offered as appetizers, though diners are better steered towards fresh spring rolls, like a signature offering filled with crispy pork sausage and served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. It's strictly first come, first serve at this compact spot in Bloomingdale just north of the Union Market district. Some order takeout at the touch screen, while others pull up a seat at the counter and order via QR code. It's all very straightforward, as is the menu with a narrow focus on spring and summer rolls, as well as impressive pho. Chef Hai Le has a background in butchering, perhaps best seen in signatures like the Butcher’s Choice with brisket, bone-in rib and beef shank, or The Works, with an array of different cuts topped with torched bone marrow. The broth is rich and savory, and while set bowls are always a good choice, the build-your-own option is equally appealing. Order a Vietnamese iced coffee or salted lime soda to go with these skillfully made offerings.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. There is nothing subtle about Chef Cesar Zapata and Ani Meinhold’s raucous Vietnamese mash-up in the MiMo district. A concrete compound wrapped in glowing red lanterns, the restaurant is practically a club with its sultry lighting, cavernous interior and full-time DJ. Yet, none of it gets in the way of the food, which is boldly seasoned and generously portioned. Stacks of crispy imperial rolls wrapped with mint and tangles of garlic-butter egg noodles aggressively charred on a wok are solid starting points. Everything is meant to be shared, especially the pho, which arrives in a cauldron packed with herbs, rice noodles and a meltingly tender slab of hickory-smoked short rib.All the while, a nearby table might launch into song. You are welcome to join the fun.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese, Noodles. If you are no stranger to the slurp, then Phở 79 is likely already on your circuit. After all, this place is an institution. Opened in the early 80s, it's widely considered to ladle some of the best and most praiseworthy pho in southern California.The simple interior is enlivened by a bright yellow wall adorned with numerous accolades. It's spartan but clean, and you're here for the pho, not the fashion show. Place your name on the clipboard by the front door and expect a wait. Once seated, peruse the extensive menu, which runs the gamut from egg noodle soups and goi cuon, to appetizers and desserts along with many varieties of the eponymous dish. You'll never go wrong with oxtail—it's the most popular with good reason.

Bib Gourmand • Polish, Dumplings. Alexandra Siwiec and Radek Kucharski are behind this casual spot in the heart of a historically Polish neighborhood in Greenpoint. There is a service station displaying Bolesławiec pottery, which is also the vessel of choice for their assorted food. Pierogi is their specialty—consider delicate parcels filled with jalapeño, mashed potato, and bacon—but don't sleep on their other Polish favorites including hearty borscht and golabki (cabbage stuffed with pork, rice, and topped with tomato-basil sauce). The savory and smoky kielbasa stands on its own, though whole grain mustard seals the deal. Raspberry and sweet cheese pierogi makes a sweet counterpart to the savory options but be sure to accompany each bite with a shot from their concise selection of Polish liquors.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Don’t be fooled by its suburban location, as this is some of the best barbecue in the Bay Area. Chef/owner Damon Stainbrook takes his sourcing seriously, as evidenced by the chalkboard outlining where each humanely raised, hormone-free cut of meat arrives from. The counter service is warm, casual and friendly; while rustic wood tables filled with regional, homemade hot sauces dot the rest of the room.There’s really no wrong way to go on their mouthwatering menu. Imagine the likes of melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork; 18-hour smoked brisket; perfectly moist, dry-rubbed ribs; or juicy hotlinks bursting with flavor. Even the mac-and-cheese, a gloopy afterthought at so many other such places, is tended to with care, offering rich flavor and toothsome texture.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Regional Cuisine. Go ahead and pinch yourself: you're not dreaming. Pinch Chinese is really that good. The decor, with lanterns overhead, a busy front bar and a window into the focused kitchen, is straight-up SoHo, but the food is all Flushing. Soup dumplings remain superlative, especially the crab version, delicate, steaming and deeply flavorful. Spicy wontons in house chili oil deliver real heat, and the homemade tofu hot pot layered with maitake and truffle is deeply satisfying. Have a scallion pancake martini or explore the thoughtful wine list, written with clarity and care.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Taiwanese. Find this laid-back little café opposite the pedestrian plaza, Sunset Triangle. The dining room itself is triangular as well as hipster-friendly with a rustic blend of exposed brick, concrete floors and varnished wood tables.As casual as the vibe may seem, this is a serious kitchen dedicated to Asian cuisine. Be sure to try their vegetarian variations on classics such as pork-free mapo tofu, daikon dumplings and daily specials like the lotus root or seaweed salad. However, the cooking truly shines with Taiwanese specialties. The three-cup jidori chicken is its own simmering feast in a clay pot of dark meat with equal parts soy, sesame oil and rice wine reduced to a deep brown glaze, then studded with chopped green onion, dried chilies and whole garlic.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Barbecue competition is steep in these parts, but in just a few short years, pitmaster Grant Pinkerton, who once lived above the restaurant, has made a name for himself. The number of deer heads mounted on the walls of this low-slung joint makes you wonder whether beef is really on the menu, but indeed it is. Everyone starts with the hulking beef rib, which often sells out before midday, and thick, melting slabs of prime-grade brisket cooked over mesquite and oak. Like all good barbecue, neither piece wants for sauce. Not to be outdone are the brilliantly tender St. Louis-style ribs, which are glazed to order in a sweet sauce made with dehydrated vegetables. Keep an eye on the back wall where daily specials are written in small print.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. This rambunctious pizzeria in Mercantile on Morris is a stylish spot built out of hard, warehouse floors and exposed brick. In lieu of traditional preparations, the kitchen takes a maximalist approach to toppings. Pesto, mortadella and pistachios or chorizo with romesco and chopped Castelvetrano olives arrive on a fine sourdough crust that’s been turned and crisped in a hot electric oven. Though the pies are serious and sizeable, meatballs are also a must-order for the table, as are desserts. Think pistachio tiramisu or a nostalgic ice cream bar dipped in chocolate. A fun selection of natural wines rounds out the experience.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Pizza. Every pizza at this area darling begins with a nod to Neapolitan tradition: start with the perfect dough and bake it into a crust that remains crisp and light right through the middle. This careful process and that almighty oven shipped from Italy can be observed with longing through the glass-walled kitchen. The dining room also conjures the homeland through Mediterranean-blue murals and furnishings. To top that crust, many pizzas go on to include premium ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte, which arrives several times a week from Italy. Alternatively, deck your pie with a more creative and locally minded blend of embellishments. A choice of appetizers, gourmet salads and luscious desserts round out the menu.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Look out for the neon green peace sign on this narrow lane in Fishtown. It might look you’re in front of a disused auto repair shop but step inside and it’s all light wood and clean lines, looking something like a Scandinavian chapel. There are booths, individual or communal tables and seating at a horseshoe-shaped counter in front of the kitchen. Get your tastebuds going by starting with a few snacks before your pie, like Judion beans or Calabrian salami, and there’s an interesting selection of natural wines too. Behind – or beneath – every great pizza is great dough, made here using quality organic flour. Good quality ingredients and no funky combinations also help. There are five varieties to choose from, to one of which you can add your own choice of toppings. The crust manages to stay crisp yet chewy until the last bite, and the combination of quality mozzarella and Old Gold cheese ensures every mouthful is rich and succulent. Take a pizza-skeptic along and watch their face.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Italian-American. Those who think Los Angeles can't compete with New York when it comes to pizza obviously haven't been to Pizzeria Bianco. There is a reason long lines snake through ROW DTLA and queue up at the takeout window with diners hankering for a taste of Chef Chris Bianco's pizza. Whether you reserved ahead of time or luck is on your side, there are seats indoors and out, but you could always join the rank and file leaning over boxes while standing nearby (it's that good). There are only a handful of pizze on offer, including the "biancoverde" and the "wiseguy," but their perfect margherita makes your heart skip a beat. An antipasto platter with roasted vegetables, spiedini, salads and sandwiches (at lunch) round out the menu.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Italian. Mozza is at its essence a pizzeria, but so much more than a mere neighborhood haunt. Why, you might ask? It boasts the presence of Co-owner Nancy Silverton, whose culinary pedigree has foodies flocking to this Hollywood hottie. Adding to that, its sunny-yellow exterior and orange canopy set a Mediterranean scene. Make your way into this bright room donning bare wood tables and skylights. Pizzas are far above average, beginning with that unmistakable cornicione—perfect spots of char that rim the crust and bring the flavor. Toppings are just as fanciful, highlighting goat cheese, leeks and bacon; or maybe squash blossom with burrata. Come dessert, Pastry Chef Dahlia Narvaez works her magic with scrumptious treats, like Meyer lemon and kumquat crostata.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Contemporary. The foggy beaches of Marin County may be a far cry from the sand and surf of Baja, but this lively spot keeps the vacation vibe alive with margaritas, mezcal and madly delicious Mexican cooking. And while Playa feels upmarket with its colorful tiles, blown-glass lights and walls of windows, its food is wonderfully authentic. The menu makes for tough choices: opt for the outstanding al pastor tacos layered with sweet-spicy caramelized pineapple salsa, or the crispy empanadas stuffed with chorizo, currants and green olives, drizzled with chimichurri. Whether you choose a cocktail and a mushroom-squash blossom quesadilla at the bar or bowls of chips and queso fundido with a big group on the sunny back patio, good times are guaranteed.

Bib Gourmand • Gastropub, English. Classic English pies may be the specialty of this house, but don’t let that inspire visions of chintz and tea cozies—the interior here is decidedly modern, with marble-topped tables and hand-crafted pottery. The crowds come for the pies, and for good reason—they’re fabulous. The crust is flaky and buttery, and the inside, hearty and satisfying. Dig into the steak and ale, with its beef stew filling and side of minty peas, gravy and mashed potatoes, and you’ll be hunting for every last crumb. The comfort food hits also keep on coming, from rarebit mac and cheese with Trooper Ale cheese sauce, to the pub burger with a grilled double beef patty topped with cheddar and a tangy, smoky bacon aioli, to fish and chips on Fridays.

Bib Gourmand • Peruvian. Peruvian in Koreatown? You bet, at least at this family-owned and run spot that has been at it for more than thirty years. Expect a casual neighborhood restaurant that's a touch warm on the inside from the heat of the live-fire cooking. All of the chicken is cooked over a wood fire that you can smell a block away and delivers smoky meat with a crispy skin that's marinated with their family secret. While there are a few options on the menu, make sure that you order the chicken by itself, or choose from their sides, but don't skip their twice-fried French fries and consider ordering a second container of their spicy green aji sauce.The wait times can be a bit long, so call ahead for take-out or wait patiently.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Cantonese. Chrystie Street wins big with this high-energy Chinese restaurant that is always down to have a good time. The stylish room leans on a Hong Kong cinema motif, with posters and stills from classic films and a glowing marquee above the chef’s counter. Looks aside, the cooking offers a fresh, generous take on Cantonese American favorites using top-rate products. Pan-seared pot stickers get their boost from a Berkshire pork and chive filling, while fried tiger shrimp slicked with Calabrian chili aioli are piled high and deeply satisfying. The XO fried rice is a standout: a hefty mound packed with shrimp, Chinese sausage and savory seafood richness. Also worth an order is the salt and pepper fried chicken, served with fluffy scallion biscuits and a chili-plum jam that should be bottled and sold.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. The name may reference Bangkok's original name, Phra Nakhon, but this busy spot is all about the now. The yawning, two-story dining room leads with a long bar and is a constant whirl of energy. It’s not uncommon to arrive to find a completely full house. A wide range of Thai dishes prepared both classically and with contemporary touches feature an abundance of herbs, spices, heat and zeal. The yum kai salad makes for a refreshing, invigorating start before delving into richer specialties like tender mussels stuffed with curry paste custard or marinated pork jowls coated in an electric Thai chili-lime dressing. Other hits include crab fried rice, pad see ew and, for lovers of pork belly, the kang tae po.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Pitmaster Christopher Prieto relocated from his native Texas to North Carolina, setting up Prime Barbecue just outside Raleigh in Knightdale. You'll need to arrive early, be prepared to wait and know that once they've run out of food, they'll close for the day. Expect all of the classics, including brisket and ribs plus pulled pork, all sold by their weight or ordered as a "meat and 2" with two scrumptious side dishes. Keep an eye out for their daily specials, especially on Saturday when they serve their chopped whole hog lechon. You won't be hungry, but a slice of pie or a banana pudding never hurt anyone.

Bib Gourmand • Greek. Owned and run by second-generation Greek American Chef Christina Theofilos, this daytime eatery and bakery epitomizes warmth and comfort. Strangers become friends in no time, noshing on breakfast and lunch during the week and brunch on weekends. The menu is laced with Greek items ranging from flavorful and tender octopus ceviche to house-made dolmades that display an added level of care. Their take on a French dip with feta-brined organic roasted chicken, kefalograviera cheese and skordalia aioli on a crusty baguette is a hearty and delicious meal. Of course, with a name that translates to bread, there must be baked goods, and you'll find it all here. Don't skimp on dessert and order bougatsa, baklava or baklava coffee cake (an impressive marriage of the two).

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Aaron Lindell and Hannah Ziskin's Quarter Sheets Pizza has nailed that haute hipster vibe with its casual styling and vinyl and cassette collection. The word is out on this Echo Park spot, so expect a wait, but one bite of their inch-thick, pan-style pizzas makes it all worth your while. Baked to order, they're prepared with flavorful sauce and quality ingredients. Pepperoni is a classic choice, or opt for the pimento grove, a vodka sauced pizza topped with olives, 'nduja and cheese. And, while you might not expect to get serious pastries at a pizza shop, don't leave without trying at least one of Hannah Ziskin's pastries. There are a few offerings that rotate often but the signature Princess cake is a staple that's worth every bite.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Contemporary. Greeting diners at this tiny Columbia Heights retreat is a yellow neon sign. The interior design, however, exudes all the understated feels, by way of white floors, blue banquettes, an intricately decorated counter and sleek metal stools. Nooks framed by geometric screens ensure the utmost privacy.The menu reveals a modern take on Hong Kong plates. These high-heat wok dishes show a blend of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Lotus root salad with anchovy dust and a charred tomato vinaigrette; or cured hamachi spiced with cumin, brushed with seaweed oil and set atop watermelon make for a great starting point. Not far behind, Wagyu rosettes gently poached in a "mala" broth are crowned by duck egg yolk and soy foam for a flourishing finish.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Ramen. This unassuming spot in an easy-to-miss location in an open-air mall belies the wondrous steaming bowls found within. The small dining room with space for 20 is strictly no frills but it's of no concern, since you're here for the soul-stirring comfort food made with passion and dedication. The concise menu features a few appetizers, though ramen clearly steals the show. Spicy red miso ramen is rich and creamy, radiates flavor and bobs with springy noodles, while savory chicken ramen is lighter but equally delicious. White miso, tonkotsu ramen and tsukemen (dipping noodles) are also worthwhile choices. Quite simply, these bowls will inspire future visits. Pork buns round out the utterly satisfying experience.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Ramen. “Gaijin” is the none-too-polite Japanese term for a foreigner, but the American chefs of this noodle joint clearly take pride in their outsider status, fusing local ingredients with traditional technique. It's surely one of the best bowls of ramen around, and you can smell the soup before you're even past the front door. The best seats are at the counter, where you can chat with the chef as he assembles bowls of light, fresh shoyu ramen filled with thick house-made rye noodles and caramelized pork belly chashu. Appetizers are also notable, like the karaage: crunchy-coated, tender chicken thighs with miso ranch. Desserts, such as the black-sesame ice cream over miso-salted caramel, matcha meringue and coconut flakes, mix sweet and savory for the win.

Bib Gourmand • Malaysian. Expect to be greeted with an array of sambals as well as Malaysian classics on Chef Johnny Lee's Chinese-Malaysian menu. Don't let the slightly higher price point steer you away, as these large plates are designed for sharing. Pork jowl or chicken satay skewers start things off right, as do ulam bendi with charred okra, and steamed eggplant with sambal and dried shrimp. There are plenty of main dishes to choose from, but beef rendang in a rich and creamy curry accompanied by a buttery roti is a sure thing. To finish, look no further than the cendol sundae with coconut and pandan ice cream with pandan jelly noodles, red bean, gula melaka syrup, and toasted buckwheat.

Bib Gourmand • Tex-Mex. There is typically a line out the door at this Cleveland Park spot. Named for a Willie Nelson song and album, the vibe is laidback and slightly quirky (think diner style with chili pepper lights strung above). It's a small spot but great care is taken with everything from house-made hot sauces to tortillas. Watch the chef making those terrific flour tortillas in the main dining room or sit outside on the patio to savor Chef Bryan Lee Weaver's Tex-Mex menu. Tacos run the gamut from simple (bacon, egg and cheese) to creative (poblano with whipped feta and crispy rice). Main dishes include a burrito and a green chili cheeseburger, and the menu includes a section devoted to crunch wraps (the pork green chili version is a glorious, messy delight).

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. A large greenery-donning patio out front greets diners to this "cafe," set within a black-painted row house. The space, spread over two levels, is thoroughly charming, thanks to a bar lined with mid-century modern stools, exposed brick and plush seats. Edison bulbs and white hexagon floor tiles simply enhance the vintage vibe. The menu underscores an array of contemporary plates with Middle Eastern and European elements. Imagine Turkish eggs at brunch; smoked heirloom baby carrots with harissa and pistachio dukkah; and chicken schnitzel with a salad of romaine hearts, charred corn and tomatoes in a herb dressing at night. A classic and perfect Basque cake dusted with ras el hanout is matched only by a Caribbean coffee cocktail with aged rum.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Entering through this (now) iconic red door is like a trip through the looking glass and into Bushwick’s foodie wonderland. The city’s love affair with Roberta’s seems stronger each year, and for good reason. Everything from the industrial space to the underground bohemian vibe epitomizes Brooklyn-chic. To begin, try the grilled baguettes covered in gigante beans and wilted dandelion green and topped with a soft poached egg before moving on to house-made bucatini tossed in a sungold tomato sauce. Of course, no visit is complete without one of their signature pies, and there's no going wrong with the famous original. Takeaway is always an option, so when the wait for a table is too long, snag a porchetta sandwich to go.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Mexican restaurants are lucky if they can pull off one good mole sauce. Chef Rocio Camacho offers more than 10 great ones in this humble Bell Gardens outpost that has little in the way of décor. Indeed, they don’t call her the "The Goddess of Mole" for nothing. From the dark-as-night Oaxaqueno to the spicy-sweet manchamanteles to the vibrant verde, moles here are layered, sophisticated efforts that come paired with your choice of chicken, fish, shrimp, steak or even a massive chile relleno. On a menu that covers a lot of territory, stick to this signature dish, which arrives overly generous in size. Otherwise, a warm basket of chips laced with a handful of sauces and a plate of zucchini blossom empanadas will position you well for the main event.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, Regional Cuisine. Like the very line of people waiting to get in, a thick haze of sweet smoke wraps around this handsome brick building. Rodney Scott’s whole-hog barbecue is a rite of passage for anyone who lives in or visits South Carolina, though true fans will drive 1.5 hours north to the original in Hemingway. Scott has hog in his blood: His parents raised them and opened a variety store and restaurant in 1972. The menu today is expansive, but the real gem is the pulled pork, which arrives soft as cotton candy, ready to be sopped in an electric sauce of vinegar, lemon juice, and spices. Tender collard greens, gooey mac and cheese, and a fantastic apple hand pie round out this filling meal. The drive-through window is a useful addition for people in a hurry.

Bib Gourmand • American. Ridgewood has a real gem on its hands in this neighborhood grill that goes above and beyond. The first room holds an easygoing bar with a talent for cocktails. Further in, the adjoining dining area comes to life as a roaring wood-fire grill bathes tables in flickering amber hues. Fire here is the key to much goodness, starting with the fluffy, smoky polenta bread smeared with the likes of Calabrian chili butter or sesame and wild oregano. Other favorites include potato croquettes, lasagna, and, for especially big appetites, dry-aged steaks served with green garlic butter. Globe lights, handsome wood floors, and a friendly, casual cadre of servers add more warmth to an already welcoming space where everyone either is a regular or is about to become one.

Bib Gourmand • International. It's a low-key spot with a contemporary feel. The bar is central and wraps around an open kitchen, so grab a seat at the counter for the best view. Between the lively tunes and buzzy staff, the aura is anything but stuffy. The plates follow suit—freewheeling, frequently changing and shareable with elements from SE Asia, Latin America and the Levant. Yet, nothing seems out of place, as in a green garbanzo croquette with Goan curry, avocado, melon and sikil p'ak. Fried cobia collar with nuoc cham boasts a cultish following. Such seductive textures and explosive flavors continue in full force in a dessert of black sesame ice cream with pineapple-cashew jam and Thai tea caramel. The tasting menu, though pricier, is a worthy splurge.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Imagine: a single trailer in Spring parked on the side of the highway next door to a gas station with a sign out front. The setup is as classic as the trailer’s origins. Childhood friends Jordan Rosemeyer and Ben Maxwell started out cooking for fun on weekends, but before long found themselves running this humble operation. There’s no dining room in sight but there are picnic tables. Most importantly, there is great barbecue – and a lot of it. Beautifully smoked brisket takes top billing, but tender pork ribs and snappy, jalapeno-cheese sausages are must-orders as well. Daily specials are another point of pride so keep a close eye on the restaurant’s social media.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Italian. The name and the flavors alike are punchy at this inviting Montrose favorite, with stylish design and cool, laid-back charm. As an opening volley in a barrage of hospitality, guests are welcomed with a splash of bubbles when they sit, perhaps as an enticement to explore the rest of the impressive wine list. All this is icing on the cake for a crowd-pleasing menu that focuses on a wood-fired oven, from a zingy salad of charred beans to a crisp, gooey focaccia di recco filled with robiola cheese and mortadella—not to mention praiseworthy pizzas and pastas. Speaking of dessert, a meal here is scarcely complete without a wedge of their honey cake with crème fraîche gelato.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Izakaya. Many izakayas buckle under the weight and scale of their own menus, struggling to balance variety with quality. This isn’t one of those places. People dash to the door of this windowless, walk-in only hangout hoping to find an empty booth or a spare seat at the bar. Find a range of fried, steamed, seared and raw dishes. Think hamachi turbocharged with ponzu, cucumbers fortified with miso and buckwheat, and cod grilled until the skin is crisp as a chip. There’s more, like fried chicken thigh sandos or grand chirashi bowls festooned with Japanese fish, caviar and Ikura. All of it is carefully sourced, handled and seasoned in a relaxed setting. Longtime regulars have their sights on the exclusive omakase counter hidden away in the back.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Creative. Open since 2016, Ruffian continues to be a sleeper favorite among those in the know. The restaurant has two sides: one centered around a communal high-top and the other a cozy, intimate dining room. A tight menu evolves regularly to highlight flavors from across Eastern Europe, which is also the primary focus of an extensive wine program helmed by several passionate sommeliers. Past highlights include smoked trout mousse sandwiched between squares of lemon pound cake, warm Parker House rolls finished in a honey-nori glaze and sourdough dumplings set in a dark porcini broth. Reservations are certainly recommended.

Bib Gourmand • American, Contemporary. Next-door sibling Winner may earn the trophy for its bread and desserts (also served here) but Runner Up is likely number one in many hearts given its serious focus on fresh, seasonal produce anchored by savory heavy hitters. Blink and you'll miss this diminutive place drenched in natural light. The good vibes extend to the food, where you may tuck into a sweet-tart citrus salad with aged gouda and cool-crisp fennel. Then, toasted sourdough is served alongside creamy trout rillette for a smoky-savory bite. A play on tortellini en brodo uses paper-thin daikon radish as the "pasta" with crumbles of chicharrón, while chaquicán mille-feuille plates three layers of crisp crackers with Chilean chopped beef stew, Kabocha squash, and salsa verde for a delicious dish.

Bib Gourmand • American. From white-jacketed servers to that pristine counter, this updated yet model LES café channels the very spirit and charm of its mothership, set only blocks away. The adept kitchen follows suit, taking the original, appetizing classics and turning them on their heads to form an array of proper and profoundly flavorful dishes. Regulars perch at the bar to watch the ‘tender whip up a cocktail or classic egg cream, while serious diners find a seat and get noshing on hot- and cold-smoked Scottish salmon teamed with everything-bagel chips. The result? A thrilling contrast in flavor and texture. Caramelized chocolate babka French toast is crowned with strawberries for a sweet-savory treat; and “eggs Benny” with salmon, spinach and challah never fails to peg a bruncher.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. For the last decade, the city has feasted on Alon Shaya’s hummus served with puffy pita bread charred in a wood-burning oven. Creamy and smooth, this time-tested combination is immensely satisfying. At Saba, which means “grandfather” in Hebrew, blue crab and lemon butter take this classic dish to another level. Where has this twist been all this time? Much of the menu at this expansive restaurant in Uptown reads straightforward—pickles, dips, salads—but what lands on the table is vibrant and refreshing. Chef Shaya’s operations now stretch to other parts of the country, but expansion has not watered down his efforts. The fundamentals here remain in good order, down to the falafel, which sports a crackly crust and a tender, bright green center.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. “Sababa,” which means “cool” in Hebrew slang, is exactly as advertised. This ode to the Middle East is awash in Mediterranean tiles. But despite the hip digs, it’s all about food here. The fine-tuned menu features Israeli salads, dips and kebabs, but small plates are its heart and soul. Start with salatim, a five-salad starter. Then choose from dishes such as charred eggplant with herbed labneh, fried cauliflower with tahini and raisins. The list goes on, but one thing to never skip is the hummus. It’s so much more than the usual that it’s even listed as a daily special. Keeping in line with the spirit is their globally minded wine list.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue, American. Sitting on the other side of the train tracks along an empty stretch of highway in Pocahontas, find this impressive salute to Texas-style barbecue. Sure, the menu has burgers, loaded potatoes, and even some delicious smoked chicken wings, but don’t let anything distract you from the excellent meats sold by the half pound. Melting slices of brisket sport dark-red edges and impressively charred barks. Pork butt arrives soft and smoky and sings with the Carolina-inspired mustard sauce. Sides like cold smoked corn salad and green beans hold their own. An expansive patio with plenty of seating makes this a particularly prime spot for families.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese Contemporary. It's classic Cantonese American with a modern twist at Sal Tang's, where everything from the dining room to the kitchen's dishes feels nostalgic, albeit with a refined, modern twist. Red lanterns are suspended from the ceiling, paper mâché dragons and cherry blossom wallpaper line the walls, and dark wood anchors this space that's just right for a weeknight meal. Meanwhile, the kitchen delivers nostalgic favorites and updated takes on beloved Chinese American dishes. Don't even think about skipping the egg roll, with its crispy shell and overstuffed filling. Another can't miss? Wonton soup, with its light, savory broth bobbing with pork wontons. Beef and broccoli is yet another classic dish before two refreshing scoops of bright and bold blood orange sorbet.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Pizza is a bit of a religion in Philly and while everyone has their favorite slice, head to this cute spot for wood-fired, naturally leavened sourdough pizzas. Sally has a hip vibe, where a heart-shaped accent lamp hangs from the ceiling and exposed brick walls and wine bottles lining the windows lend charm to the space. It's the kind of place that works for families, couples and friends—all here for a pie as well as a lineup of small plates and natural wines. Start with a plate of meatballs to kick off the meal in classic style before pizza with a perfectly thin crust that stays crisp even under pressure from generous toppings.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. It's all in the family at Sam Jones BBQ, where three generations of the same family have been perfecting their 'cue. This spot in downtown Raleigh (and another in Winterville) specializes in cooking Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue pork. They've been doing it their way, slow cooking the whole pig over burning embers, then chopping it all up and serving it with a vinegar-based sauce to cut through the richness of the meat, for years. Order a meat combo, which comes with sides and a sweet potato muffin or corn bread, and chase it with one of their beers on tap, brewed by the family in Winterville. On busy days, expect a line. Takeout is available, but then you'd miss out on this spot's friendly vibe.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. This eatery in the heart of downtown is not only good fun but also good for the wallet. Here, the Chefs/partners bring their disparate expertise—one is a barbecue aficionado from Nashville, the other is Indonesian, and together they turn out a menu of thoroughly pleasing Southeast Asian food. Attractions include a well-spiced rendition of green papaya salad, mixing aromatic herbs, chilies and peanuts. Bao can be ordered fried or steamed, which yields a pillowy soft bun to be filled with crunchy fried chicken in a tangy sauce. The interior is appealingly simple, but the back patio is a hidden gem, filled with string lights and communal tables that can be booked for parties. Weekday happy hour simply means steep discounts on a variety of food and drinks.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. As further proof that big things often come in small packages, watch this narrow nook make a regular out of you in no time. On busy Orchard Street, this neighborhood gem hides in plain sight, anchored by a kitchen that doesn’t even have a proper gas stove. Seasonal, bright and unfussy, the menu is small but endlessly tempting as it roams the Middle East for inspiration. Simple, familiar things like half-roasted harissa over tzatziki spark joy, but order anything with lamb, especially the ragu served over house-made spätzle. A punky soundtrack, a natural wine list and staff that will never judge you for over-ordering — what’s not to love?

Bib Gourmand • Cuban. What started out as a little shipping container in 2017 has morphed into this brick-and-mortar hot spot in Little Havana. There is almost always a line of diners vying to squeeze into the narrow space, designed with emerald-green walls, vibrant tile and sleek brass trimmings.Everyone comes for the same thing: a superb Cuban sandwich featuring pork butt that's been marinated for a week in garlic and spices, then pressed between expertly grilled slices of house-made bread. A heavier but equally flavorful alternative is the lechon, starring tender shredded pork slathered in garlic-cilantro aïoli. Thick baton-shaped croquetas also impress if you need a pre-sandwich bite.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Longtime fans of the previous tenant (Paet Rio) will be thrilled to know that little has changed under this new name. The interior is still as cozy as ever, like a long train car with wall-to-wall wood paneling and redolent of incense. Service is welcoming and attentive; and the food, most importantly, remains notably appetizing, in an area rich with competing Thai kitchens.The dizzyingly long menu features curries, fried rice, salads, and stir-fries. But look closely and you’ll find real gems, like yum pla duk, or a delicate weave of crispy catfish topped with tangy mango salad. Miang kha-na is an essential starter, mixing lime rinds, pork, and peanuts to brilliant effect. Bright, fiery, sharp, and spicy—this is Thai food in its most captivating form.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Dim Sum. This highly regarded Cantonese restaurant could easily glide solely on its reputation, and yet, its devoted chefs bring the goods again and again. One of the first of its kind to offer dim sum à la carte, rather than by an actual cart, items arrive piping hot, fresh from the steamer. You really can’t go wrong here, as each is more inventive than the next, flaunting ace flavor and wondrous texture. Bigger plates are all the rage at night—including sweet and sour pork, which finds elevation in this trusty kitchen's hands. Anything with seafood is a sure bet, but don’t miss the preserved salty egg bun with molten yolk. Families can be seen digging into steamed rice noodle rolls studded with bitter melon, or fried durian pastries oozing with the warm fruit.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion, Asian. This inspired little South Williamsburg spot finds its culinary niche in mixing Japanese and Ashkenazi Jewish fare. Not all the dishes are a fusion of the two styles, but many—like the matzoh ball ramen or the terrific lox bowl stuffed with avocado, Japanese pickles and sushi rice—cleverly straddle both cuisines.Kick things off with perfectly presented toro tartare over house-baked sake kasu challah, spread with scallion cream cheese and topped with “everything” spice; or the unctuous Wagyu pastrami sandwich made with house-made caraway shokupan (milk bread) and mustard. For dessert, the chocolate-banana challah bread pudding with whipped crème fraîche and whiskey caramel, is a worthy splurge.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza, Contemporary. The curious name of Chef Sean Brock's pizza restaurant is derived from the Japanese word “shokunin,” which represents a person’s full commitment to every detail of a craft. This is indeed a thoughtful approach to Neapolitan-style pizza, but with its own distinct personality. It starts with the dough, slowly cold fermented, then baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a light, tender, utterly appealing crust.The fresh-looking Riverside Village space boasts a sunny vibe with concrete flooring, pale walls, light wood furnishings and pops of blue, which include a matte tiled, domed pizza oven made in Italy. The glass-walled prep area displays the makers and provenance of the cheeses, cured meats, vegetables and even the firewood used here.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. Long hailed as one of the top tables in the area, this Sichuan stalwart is settling into its new home just two miles away from its previous address in Alhambra. All of the usual hits are still in play—tea-smoked duck, big mouth ginger frog, mapo tofu—and the kitchen is still armed with its usual scarlet-red numbing oils and fiery, chopped chilis. One recent highlight was a cauldron of fish and rattan pepper boiled in a thrillingly complex broth rippling with numbing, spicy tones. A private room will serve large parties particularly well. All to say, the airy space, with its big windows and bright lights, is a welcome change that has not come at the expense of the cooking. The restaurant has additional locations in Tustin and West Los Angeles.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. It is difficult to imagine a dinner here that doesn’t include the hummus. A gorgeous mosaic of charred green chickpeas, crispy chickpeas, zhoug, and za’atar raise this familiar dish to wonderful heights. There’s more on the way: A platter of chicken shish taouk that’s marinated in yogurt, crusted in spices and charred all over or halloumi cheese served with beets and finished in a honey and pomegranate molasses. In this quiet, sun-soaked corner of River North, the team behind Indienne hits the mark with this Middle Eastern charmer where tables crowd with dips, small plates, and items hot off the grill. You’re expected to share but that’s easier said than done. Silky-smooth, house made ice creams make for a sweet send-off.

Bib Gourmand • Barbecue. Central Texas-style barbecue in Orlando? You bet, at this spot off busy Curry Ford Road from owner/pitmaster Tyler Brunache. Concrete floors, simple tables, and a lengthy menu written on butcher paper are a sign that this place is serving up the real deal. It's a classic meat and sides affair, and they even make their own white bread that's sliced and served alongside your selections. Pork ribs in a black pepper and salt rub are tender and incredibly flavorful with a nice hit of smoky edge, while the jalapeño-cheddar sausage gives Texas a run for its money. Sides like collard greens studded with garlic and hash & rice are just two of the can't-miss accompaniments.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Californian. Although it would be easy to dismiss this perpetually buzzy spot as just another cooler-than-thou hipster haunt for natural wine, here you'll find some of Oakland's most exciting and well-crafted cooking. Chef Andres Giraldo Florez has worked in some of the world’s loftiest kitchens, and although the vibe here is unfussy, his fine dining chops are evident in every precise, flavorful dish. The concise menu changes frequently, but the namesake gastropod is always on offer, served in-shell, bathed in redolent garlic confit and cashew miso butter, topped with a coin of tangy kumquat. There might not be typical main courses, but guests will have no difficulty filling up on the array of creative small plates, from raw bar offerings to impeccable crudités.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. It takes effort to visit this remarkable little noodle bar, as it’s located in deep industrial West Oakland, open only at dinner and waits can run upwards of 45 minutes—if the designated 100 daily orders of soba don’t sell out first. But rest easy as this delay is happily passed with a drink in the sunny garden, and the warm hospitality rewards the hassle. Handmade Japanese noodles come in two varieties: 100% or 90% buckwheat, served hot or cold in dishes like tenseiro, chewy cold soba with feather-light tempura shrimp and vegetables alongside a flavorful dipping sauce. For something warmer, kamo nanban, a rich broth with tender slices of duck breast, hits the spot. Be sure to sample the sake, served here in the traditional “overflowing” style.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Soba. There are countless Japanese restaurants that line this stretch of the East Village, but how many of them have been open since 1996? Dedicated patrons drop in regularly for the signature buckwheat soba, prepared in ways that meet the challenges of the season. Those who need to warm up can opt for the hot broth preparation. Those looking to chill down and refresh can swing for the cold preparation. Rice bowls filled with vegetable or shrimp tempura are also worth an order. The room itself is traditional in design with plenty of tables, booths and counter space. This is also one of the few restaurants in the city where walk-ins could snag a table even during peak dinner service.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Heirloom corn is revered at this Bushwick restaurant, where chef-owners and husband-and-wife Zack and Diana Wangeman nixtamalize, mill, and knead heritage Mexican corn into beautiful, soft tortillas in house. The tightly edited menu gives equal playing time to those tortillas in a variety of ways while also showcasing Chef Zack's fine dining chops. Traditional dishes range from carnitas to ceviche, while creative dishes like chicken liver tostadas with candied kumquats or wagyu tongue empanadas are boundary pushing in the very best way. Lamb belly barbacoa served with a fresh green chepicha salsa is a simple but satisfying meal. The vibrant, beautifully spiced salsas like avocado-lime, garlicy tuom, chile de arbol, and chile morita are deserve commercial bottling.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Husband and wife Son Do and Chinh Pham tell stories of their childhood in Saigon at this gem on bustling Belmont. The moniker is a marriage of their names, which not only enhances the charm factor but also makes total sense considering they were high school sweethearts. A set of glass doors marks the entry to this bright, modern space, fitted with a leather banquette and lush, colorful planters.The menu is modern Vietnamese with a focus on ingredient sourcing. Dishes display immense depth, so come hungry to sample the duck salad with banana blossoms; or pho, that national treasure, with bone broth, flat rice noodles, Wagyu short rib and aromatics aplenty. Desserts may change, but if the cassava cake or coffee flan are on offer, jump on it.

Bib Gourmand • Vegan, Italian-American. This fresh concept's name is derived from Italy's tradition of hand-crafted sodas; and its spirit from the turbulent Prohibition era. Pass the entry sign to arrive at this mini haven, replete with a mighty vintage vibe—think velvet chairs, gleaming copper accents and stained glass lamps.On the menu, house-made pastas are a focus. There are also natural wines to accompany the seasonal, deftly executed vegan dishes. Toasted focaccia served in a miso bagna cauda is an umami-rich bite, tailed by tagliatelle tossed with nori "butter" sauce and broccoli rabe. Date cake with vanilla "gelato" gets a hit of black salt for delicious complexity.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican, Regional Cuisine. Far more authentic than the average chips-and-salsa joint, Sol de Mexico brightens the scene and palate with a lively atmosphere (cue the mariachi music) and delectable house specialties. Walls painted in tropical pinks, blues and oranges are a cheerful canvas for Dia de los Muertos artifacts. To sample the kitchen’s skill, start with sopes surtidos “xilonen”—four molded masa cups with a variety of fillings like caramelized plantains doused in sour cream, or tender black beans topped with crumbly house-made chorizo. Then, move on to the pollo en mole manchamanteles, which translates to “tablecloth stainer.” Rich and slightly bitter with a comforting nuttiness, the aptly named mahogany sauce begs to be sopped up with freshly made tortillas.

Bib Gourmand • American, Southern. Set within the historic Pearl brewhouse at the base of the Emma Hotel, Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery blends its industrial past with a lively, modern dining room. The expansive space draws a steady mix of locals and visitors, with the bar offering views into the working brewery. The menu reflects a Texas-focused approach, with Gulf seafood, Southern influences and comfort-driven dishes such as snapper throats with remoulade and the East Texas crawfish roll, served with spiced fries. House-brewed beers anchor the beverage program, rounding out a setting that is both relaxed and distinctly rooted in its surroundings.

Bib Gourmand • Pizza. Named for a racehorse and just as focused and quick, Speedy Romeo is a sure bet. Part tavern, part roadside grill, its kitschy décor and modern touches transform this former automotive shop into a surprisingly attractive spot. The owner benefited from years at Jean-Georges’ empire, and that intelligence and experience is conveyed through the smart accents and whimsical menu that begins with Italian ingredients. Peppers stuffed with chopped salami, cheese, and topped with breadcrumbs make for a nice opener. Then, take a chance on the non-traditional but utterly fantastic pizza combinations, such as the St. Louis, layering a proper crust with meats, pickled peppers and Midwestern Provel cheese.

Bib Gourmand • Californian. On the quaint island of Alameda comes this causal concept from restaurateurs, Mike Yakura and Danny Sterling. The entrance is in keeping with its industrial interior design, complete with a counter and kitchen in full view, exposed ductwork, and an indigo-blue ceiling.Billing itself as a Californian rotisserie, the menu is also strewn with Hawaiian and Japanese accents—behold such unorthodox sides as a Napa slaw, with pickled red kraut, carrot, and creamy sesame dressing. Top-notch meats take center stage, with starters (corn fritters with strawberry jam, anyone?) to boot. Marinated in koji and fermented rice, these umami-packed cuts are then grilled to rosy perfection. Desserts, like butter mochi cake with whipped cream, boast a light-as-feather texture.