"This probably won’t come as a surprise, but putting a slab of kielbasa on a burger leads to good results, as does adding cumin-ginger sofrito to an already juicy chicken thigh. In case you’re an “I’ll believe it when I see it” kind of person, head to Pheasant. This Mediterranean spot’s backyard seating is available Wednesday through Sunday for lunch or dinner, with reservations available through their website, or by phone at 718-675-5588 for groups of six or more." - matt tervooren