Semilla

Semilla calls itself a "vegetable-forward restaurant," with meat and fish playing a supporting role. The 10-course tasting menu ($75) changes according to seasonal availability and what stirs the imagination of Jose Ramirez-Ruiz (an alum of Per Se) and pastry chef Pamela Yung (Room 4 Dessert, Roberta's). There is no printed menu so you have to be willing to wing it, although some dietary restrictions can be accommodated. What began as a pop-up called Chez Jose established permanence in late 2014 in a tiny Williamsburg space that fits 18 seats around a horseshoe bar, encouraging interaction. Reservations are necessary and are limited to four people. Be warned: if you cancel less than three days out, you’ll be on the hook for the full menu price per person. For a more causual and cheaper option, it’s also possible to pop in for drinks and snacks.