Formosa

Meet Formosa, Bushwick’s dumpling destination. This Taiwanese corner spot on Evergreen Ave. sells eight dumplings for $12 and each one clocks in at a very solid two bites. If it’s your first time, try the steamed signature pork and chive doused in crunchy chili oil, but we also like the dumplings with peppery white fish (fried, always). Round out your order with lu rou fan with tender braised pork and the popcorn chicken served with pieces that are exactly as small as popcorn and coated in a sweet-and-salty dust. You could always order takeout through Formosa's antique phone perched on a vintage stool, but you're better off staying a while.

The space feels like it was designed by a friend who's good at stooping: mismatched wooden chairs and tables look like they all belong together. On any given evening, solo diners line the counter, headphones on, having some alone time with a plate full of dumplings. Be like them or come for a casual weeknight dinner with friends and order a couple of beers and most of the menu. It's the kind of place where you'll want to swipe the last dumpling when everyone else in your group is too polite to take it.

photo credit: Willa Moore