"Open for: Happy hour, dinnerPrice range: $$$$Rood, which has graced this list in years prior, has earned its way back thanks to recent developments. New ownership by Vessel Hospitality, the group behind Cloak and Dagger, and fresh culinary talent in the kitchen has given this Lakewood jewel a revived sense of purpose. Star pastry chef Annabella Andricks has joined rising-star chef Josh Erickson in the kitchen, where they deliver seasonal Midwestern fare in a vibey lounge-like setting. Diners can expect plenty of vegetables and eclectic small plates, like za’atar-rubbed roasted carrots, togarashi-spiced mussels, and charred octopus with housemade chorizo. Andricks packs the dessert list with decadent pies like maple miso pie topped with sesame praline crumble or salt and honey pie served with bee pollen.Best for: Happy hour, when there are some truly great deals on food and cocktails." - Douglas Trattner
