Penny

Dining here centers on the long open-kitchen counter, where guests watch the kitchen prep dishes like a synchronized dance. While the high-demand space fills up quickly, the draw is the front-row view of the bustle alongside plates of confit oysters paired with crackers, tuna carpaccio, and tender halibut. For a grander spread, the seafood ice box comes piled with mussels, scallops, and shrimp—though there is also a chocolate mousse with hazelnuts if you want actual dessert. House sparkling water keeps things simple, and solo diners can sometimes snag a seat by walking in early.