Fort Greene

The Cuban-style food and quick take-out (especially the corn) at the original outpost in Nolita satiates that very specific craving, and the place is always flooded with people from midday to midnight. It can get noisy—there's a take-out window next door if the crowds are too overwhelming. This location in Brooklyn is a little less crazy; as is the one across the country in the Malibu Country Mart.

Ludlow Beckett's shop has seen the neighborhood change—but his offerings haven't changed all that much in the process. Look for tasteful and uncommon pieces, namely great glassware, pillows, and decorative knick knacks.

Formerly known as Stuart & Wright, the (new) name comes from the 1950's drycleaning sign that still marks the exterior. The selection inside is not so firmly routed in the past. The loft-like, wood-paneled space offers classically-tailored offerings from some of our favorite brands, like APC, Raquel Allegra, Rachel Comey, and more.

This café/bar from beloved neighborhood grocer, Greene Grape Provisions, attracts a casual crowd during the day for great coffee and a snack, and turns into a full-fledged wine and craft beer bar in the evening, complete with cheese plates and charcuterie. We love the design of the space (it's helmed by two Domino magazine vets): It's light and airy.

This beloved neighborhood grocer attracts locals for excellent provisions, great coffee and a snack during the day, and wine and craft beers at night. We love its light and airy design (it's helmed by two Domino magazine vets), and its wide span (there's a wine shop, a provisions store, an ice cream parlor, and the café, Annex. All are arranged along Fulton Street.

This beloved neighborhood grocer attracts locals for excellent provisions, great coffee and a snack during the day, and wine and craft beers at night. We love its light and airy design (it's helmed by two Domino magazine vets), and its wide span (there's a wine shop, a provisions store, an ice cream parlor, and the café, Annex. All are arranged along Fulton Street.

Andrew Tarlow and team have a tight grip on the Williamsburg dining scene, and so they've finally made their first foray deeper into Brooklyn. At Roman’s, the short menu of simple Italian dishes changes daily, making it the kind of neighborhood joint you can hit on repeat. As the food is delicious, there’s always a crowd—if you’re looking for a quiet meal, opt for earlier on in the week.

Go to Junior's for old-fashioned entrees (tuna melts, grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken fingers) and legendary cheesecake. (The cheesecake really is where it's at.) There are two city-centric options (one in Times Square, one in Grand Central), but if you have time, head to the original on Flatbush in Brooklyn, which still retains its 1950's aesthetic—red booths and banquettes, formica countertops, old-school uniforms, the works—and its friendly, neighborhood feel.