"Schmuck comes from the duo who formerly ran Barcelona’s Two Shmucks (one of those bars that makes it to global must-visit lists), but their East Village spot is more of a relaxed living room than a European party destination. Sink into a plush leather love seat while a server asks you how you’re doing, listens carefully, and then recommends something appropriate, like a refreshing, peanut-forward Larb Gai with cognac. This place is buzzy and you’ll need a reservation, or to line up half an hour before they open. But the effort is worth it for a date fueled by martinis that comes with a dropper of olive oil, some cacio e pepe beans and maybe a chocolate mousse." - bryan kim, molly fitzpatrick, willa moore, will hartman, sonal shah, andrew ryce