On its opening night, Pez—by James Beard-nominated Chef Éfrén Hernandez—shines in the former Rivertown Tavern at Rivertown Lodge. We took an early look.

From the founders of Zaitoon, Pita + Olive elevates fast-casual Mediterranean to stylish dine in, while their new café bar—with lattes, pastries + affogato shots—is just another reason to go.

The opening of The Verandah in Troy’s Little Italy is a fusion of Jamaican island cooking and Italian Likkle Tings.

WHERE TO EAT—Below Ground at the Empire State Plaza.