"Venice’s RVR isn’t an identical clone of its predecessor MTN — both conceived by wunderkind chef Travis Lett — but there are many similarities in design, physical space, acronymic name, and menu that neighborhood locals who loved the former will appreciate echoing in the latter. Sidle up to the wide, curving bar and order a bunch of small plates: Crispy chicken thigh karaage, fatty hand rolls, lacy gyoza, Japanese sweet potato with earthy miso butter, and the chicories salad (a Caesar riff with a creamy tofu dressing) to start. The kushiyaki (grilled meat skewers) and ramen will be worth leaving room for, too. Pro-tip: Grab a Resy to beat the line or get there right at 5 p.m. when people start queueing." - Matthew Kang