"The chef/owner of Akara House used to work at McDonald’s, and usually that wouldn’t be a significant fact, but at this counter-service Nigerian spot in Crown Heights, it explains a lot. Their akara sandwich is a Big Mac-like creation involving cheese, mayo, pickles, and a thick fritter with a crackly crust and a custardy interior that’s nothing like a sad excuse for meat. Pair it with a side of suya seasoned plantains, and snag one of the tiny outdoor tables if the weather's nice. Classic Akara Burger, $10.50 and Suya Seasoned Plantains, $6.30" - will hartman, willa moore, molly fitzpatrick, sonal shah, bryan kim