Fada

Like any bistro worth its sea salt, Fada is built for people-watching. Long mirrors line the walls, French doors are flung wide open to the street and, when weather permits, café tables dot the sidewalk, where the proximity to the L train provides a steady stream of eye candy. Service can be slow, but the pace gives you more time to scan the crowds—and savor the food. Camembert and figs wrapped in puff pastry are a rich start. The aioli traditionale is a grand platter of steamed codfish, boiled eggs and assorted vegetables, all ready to be drizzled with garlicky aioli sauce