Sugar Freak

Not every New York City joint that purports to have flavors from the South nails it, but Astoria's Sugar Freak is the real deal when it comes to New Orleans–style cooking. With a menu that boasts beignet sliders, hush puppies, deep-fried popcorn alligator, muffuletta, po'boys and crawfish made almost every way (in a bisque, breaded or deep-fried, along with crab and rice, into boudin balls), it's no surprise the owners are real-live Louisiana transplants. Brunch is wildly popular, so plan to be early or wait. Should you opt for the latter, both the Southern-style decor and cocktail menu—featuring Creole Bloody Marys, Lady Marmalades and oyster shooters—should keep you busy until a table opens.