"Petite León wears a lot of hats—it’s laid-back enough to be a comfortable neighborhood hangout, but it will impress a date thanks to the fancier flourishes like leather banquettes and a sepia-tone-glowing chandelier. The chef grew up in the Yucatán, so the food draws from that region while blending flavors from around the world that work well together: like steak frites with chipotle butter or clam cream sauce linguine that packs a punch from sambal matah, a spicy Balinese condiment. You’ll see similar themes on the cocktail menu, including an oaxacan Old Fashioned made with mezcal and chocolate bitters. " - stacy brooks