The Vanderbilt
570 Vanderbilt Ave.
Prospect Heights
718-623-0570r
Why we love it: Its both modern and rustic aesthetic (marble bar, walls of reclaimed barn wood) complements the menu of done-up comfort food and mix of classic and new-fangled cocktails. Translation: we get to feel a little fancy, but are still in our comfort zone.
Who to bring: Your main squeeze for date night; your folks when they come in town.
What to order: A Breckenridge vanilla porter ($6), with a snack of sriracha, honey and lime brussels sprouts ($5) or go for one of the house-made sausages, like the Cheddar Bratwurst with braised beans and kale ($12).
Fun fact: The vintage farm tools that decorate the restaurant were taken from owner Ben Daitz’s family’s basement in Maine.—Kate Mooney