When Brooklyn Blend opened up around the corner from me years ago now, I was thrilled to have the perfect spot for smoothies, juices, patties and sandwiches. My go-to order can vary, but the Park Slope Salmon, Transfer at Atlantic – I like my green juices quite gingery and on the sweeter side and it’s always perfect – and ackee patty stay in the rotation alongside their Fulton Street smoothie, which inspired me to up my at-home smoothie game with its delicious touch of cinnamon. –DD

Cafe Eritrea in Oakland’s Temescal District is delightful, delicious, and homey. While I was growing up, our family always ordered the sampler with spongy and bitter injera, the buttery doro alicha that still makes my mouth water to this day, and a vinegary green salad in the center to cut through the rich stews. It’s the perfect place to go for a filling meal with people you love to relax and refuel. –GD

Given the food and retail aspects of BEM, I love what Café and Marché Rue Dix have on offer. My favorite order is undoubtedly the Thiebou Jen, Senegal’s national dish of fish and rice served with carrots, cassava, and cabbage. It’s such a hearty and deeply flavorful dish, and the tamarind paste and whole scotch bonnet pepper on the plate – cooked down to almost spreadable softness – invite you to add an extra touch of sweet, sour, or heat as you wish, bite by bite as you savor your meal. –DD

Crockett’s has been a staple in our family since way before we were born. Both the flavor and the visual of the bright red vinegary hot sauce splashed across pieces of fried whiting paired with their slightly sweet coleslaw are imprinted deep in my sense-memory. Crockett’s remains a go-to when we want to feed a lot of people with familiar deliciousness. If you’re in Essex County, stop by this institution on Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. –GD

Dick & Jane’s BarRoom took over the space previously occupied by Casablanca, a beloved neighborhood bar that closed during the pandemic. They had big shoes to fill and it remains one of my favorite places in Bed-Stuy to grab a drink. It’s great for a solo glass of wine with your favorite book or to catch up with friends. I always get the Wright Martini – it’s the perfect size and made with mezcal, if you’re open to a riff on the classic gin or vodka. –GD

Hav & Mar brilliantly combines Ethiopian and Swedish influences in a striking, art-filled space. Start with an aquavit highball, followed by wonderful dishes like the Uni Caesar Salad, Banana Leaf Snapper, or Addis York – a riff on doro wot that makes for an incredible medley of flavors and textures. Their former brunch service introduced me to a light & crisp seafood waffle I wish I could order again, and to their Hav Bread Basket – still available at dinner and definitely not to be missed! –DD

Every time I pop into Milk & Pull on Malcolm X, it’s pleasantly packed with folks working on their laptops, pairs catching up over pastries, and parents with strollers grabbing a quick coffee. It’s perfectly positioned on the walk from the A/C train at Utica and has a lovely sandwich & bagel menu if you’re looking for lunch. At Milk & Pull, I can count on having a great beverage, enjoying the playlist, and probably running into a friend while I’m there. –GD

Crabby Shack is another neighborhood spot I love, and one that I head to specifically when a craving for their crab grilled cheese strikes. Well seasoned and served on a buttery Texas toast, it’s such a delicious treat. Tempted though I may be by other dishes on a menu, I’m definitely a person who will get hooked on an item and default to it happily again and again – plus it’s always a pleasure to support a fellow sister-owned business! –DD

After visiting Cadence in New York, I couldn’t wait to check out Shennari Freeman’s vegan West African concept in West Hollywood. The ambiance & lovely service create an enjoyable & elevated experience while dishes like fonio grits and a charred okra salad comprise an inventive menu, enticing you to skate down the page before making your selections. With a thoughtful selection of cocktails & spirit-free bevs, there’s really something for everyone at this eatery on LA’s iconic Melrose Avenue. –GD