The chef-led Johnson’s Barbecue fires up the Catskills with its new semi-permanent home + dive bar at The Boathouse in Tannersville. Industry contributor Dimity Jones is all in on the Kansas City ‘cue, chef-crafted sides + “lakeside, camp aesthetic that feels both retro boy scout lodge and local hangout.”

Tucked in the former World of Beer in Crossgates Mall, Emperor Garden joins a handful of Chinese restaurants we recommend with several dishes you won’t find elsewhere.

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.