"The New Standard pulled out all the stops to prevent from shutting down, offering virtual wine dinners, streaming live concerts, even setting up a grocery pantry and selling grill kits. But it was chef Ryan McLaughlin and his team who rose to the challenge serving such draws as lionfish ceviche in a watermelon consommé and a game hen cassoulet, both gorgeous even by takeout standards. A weekend brunch menu is available for takeout as are some standout baked goods, most notable the dark chocolate pizelle and glazed crullers. Wine bottles are half off, but the adult juice cocktail pouches, in various flavors like frosé and pina colada, are a pandemic silver lining." - Faiyaz Kara
