Guacuco

If you're looking for a casual dinner that involves frozen margs and a lot of fried dough (who isn't), head to Guacuco. This Venezuelan spot in Bed-Stuy is best known for its "pink sauce," a creamy salsa rosada that goes perfectly with their tostones, arepas, and empanadas. There's a fast-casual feel to the branded wall in the front, but don't be fooled. This place can easily turn into an impromptu party. There’s a big bar in the middle, and once they switch up the lighting and turn some music on in the evenings, it’s a great place for groups to get a little loose on a weeknight.

photo credit: Neha Talreja