1. 1. The Farm on Adderley

   1108 Cortelyou Rd., nr. Coney island Ave., Ditmas Park, Brooklyn; 718-287-3101

   This laid-back American bistro with a seasonal slant has the formerly beet-and-goat-cheese-terrine-starved Ditmas Park locals in a lather. Signature dish: fresh peas and Bibb lettuce with buttermilk dressing.

2. 2. Bar-bo-ne

   186 Ave. B, nr. 11th St.; 212-254-6047

   Chef John Baron has done time at Babbo, Lupa, Otto, and even Pó; needless to say, the cooking is molto Italian. Signature dish: chicken-liver ravioli.

3. 3. Gin Lane

   355 W. 14th St., nr. Ninth Ave.; 212-691-0555

   Where once there was Pabst Blue Ribbon (at the former Village Idiot space) there is now Dover sole meunière and $14 cocktails by Dale DeGroff.

4. 4. Krunch Pizza Bar

   980 Second Ave., nr. 51st St.; 212-207-4122

   A hairdresser, his mom, and a nightlife impresario do square pizza on Second Avenue. Signature pie: zucchini, garlic, onion, and Parmigiano.

5. 5. ’wichcraft

   555 Fifth Ave., entrance on 46th St.; 212-780-0577

   Tom Colicchio brings his tasty sandwiches to midtown east. Our current favorite: bacon, egg, Gorgonzola, and frisée on ciabatta.

Related:

• Archive: “Food Features”
• Articles by Robin Raisfeld
• Table of Contents: Aug 14, 2006 issue of New York | Subscribe!