Esca — Mexico City
It takes a moment to realize you’ve arrived at Esca, which hides behind wide wooden doors, but don’t be fooled—that’s the intention. Inside this lovely casona located in Colonia Roma the atmosphere is relaxed, breezy and dappled by sunlight. Esca, which opened its doors last August, has been a place to eat dinner after lunch. The menu, inspired by Italy’s coast regions, is rooted in Mexican flavors and spices. There is one promise that runs through the entire menu: “We will let the catch speak on its own,” says Tobias Petzold who works alongside owner Rolly Pavia. This standout seafood shines in cold appetizers—like a “canned tuna” you’ll have to see to believe—crudos, pastas, and dainty mains like a tuna ventresca with smoked eggplant and onion confit. Around 6 p.m. the bar opens, and the mood becomes more vibrant and lively. This is due to the imported wines that are only available here, as well as the cocktail menu, which also features local ingredients and seafood. —Atenea Morales
Carbone in New York City is synonymous with celebrities and fashion figures. Foodies of all kinds are constantly checking their email to secure a reservation. Now, a palpable sense of excitement—and smugness—hangs in London’s air, as the city has gained its own outpost of the scene-y eatery. Above, crisp tablecloths cover the tables, while the bar shines golden over the rich decor in cerulean or scarlet. Below, a lively cocktail lounge opens into a subterranean space that has a distinctive checkered flooring. On the terrace, diners can enjoy people watching over Grosvenor Square. Front-of-house staff struts in Zac Posen-designed velvet tuxedos, while bread baskets are piled high on tables and Parmesan wheel is ceremoniously picked apart until it crumbles into pieces onto side plates. The signature spicy rigatoni is available, as are the massive melt-in your-mouth meatballs. Before the main course, there is often some wine-swirling and discreet stomach-rubbing before the main dish arrives at the center of your table. In my case it was the veal Parmesan that had tomato and cheese toppings shining under the Art Deco table lamps. The team will try to convince you that you can still indulge with desserts served on a silver platter. Say yes. Say yes. —Connor Sturges
Must — Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire
Abidjan is an energetic commercial hub located along the Atlantic Coast, where nightlife, culture and business intersect. Must is a highly sought-after table in Cocody, the busiest district of Abidjan, since its opening in February 2016. Must is a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Abidjan. It’s located right on Rue des Jardins. Interiors feature warm, clean materials and a Mediterranean-inspired menu with plenty of seafood from the region. The Peruvian Chef Luis Carranza Marquez is able to masterfully prepare grilled seabream, lobster with butter sauce and slow-cooked Lamb. Live music is played in the background by a pianist, saxophonist or other musician. This helps to set the mood for the evening. Must is still in its early stages, but from the service to the atmosphere, it’s clear that this place will last. —Sharon Machira
