Wong

Simpson Wong has had a devoted following in the West Village since he opened Café Asean several years back, and it's easy to see why he proudly put his name on this venue. It's an expression of his Pan-Asian locavore outlook, using the best, local ingredients to create dishes like Hong Kong–style pork chops with broccoli rabe or Vietnamese-style pizza, a rice-based crepe topped with sausage, fennel and nettle. The menu is seasonal and sides are always worth getting for the table—perhaps some sweet potato greens with coconut sambal or creamed corn with cilantro. The rustic, industrial space has an open kitchen, an appealing bar and communal tables, making it fun for groups.