Merchant Oyster Co.

"Look for reclaimed nautical details at this Lawrenceville spot, featuring lights from an old ship, glass buoys, oars, and deck chairs. The downstairs has wooden bar stools artfully etched using electricity, while the cozy upstairs space is outfitted with rocking chairs so it feels like a dock. Grab a seat for raw bar offerings like oysters and steamers, mussels, clams, and soft-shell crabs. More substantive orders include three types of chowder, lobster rolls — and a nod to Jersey with Shore-style foot-long hot dogs, as well as a pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich." - Melissa McCart