"This daytime diner from the team behind the now-closed Tokki (and Danbi) has first-rate Taiwanese comfort dishes and incredible people-watching, but it's the creative pastries that make it a triple threat. Liu's is only open from late breakfast to late lunch, which makes it well-suited for a leisurely midday deal, or if you don't mind battling the sidewalk crowds, weekend brunch. Start with the cold sesame noodles, caramelized pork belly over rice, and Hong Kong-style french toast filled with salted egg yolk custard. The adorable space is lined with vintage movie posters makes provides a nice backdrop for your next daytime date, too. Just warn them about the brutal street parking situation first." - sylvio martins, brant cox, garrett snyder
