Brasero

John Manion, who’s also behind Argentine-inspired El Che Steakhouse & Bar, brings the flavors of South America to West Town at Brasero, a wood-fired restaurant that draws on his childhood in São Paulo. A neighborhood go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions, the menu spans fresh seafood and grilled meats, all built around live-fire cooking.

The vibe: An open kitchen anchors the dining room, where the glow of the fire adds to the energetic atmosphere. Plush booths and dim, moody lighting set the scene for date night, while the lively soundtrack and open layout make it just as suited for a group dinner.

The food: While Manion has a reputation for steak, Brasero’s menu rewards diners who look beyond the cuts of beef. Start with warm pão de queijo, Brazil’s chewy cheese bread, served with a rotating seasonal jam, or grilled oysters dressed with citrus-garlic butter. The moqueca, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, combines creamy coconut broth with nuts and Akahoshi Ramen noodles for a rich, comforting dish. Still, don’t skip the steak: the Westholme wagyu picanha arrives with chimichurri and vinaigrette, and is a treat for carnivores. The coal-roasted sweet potato with creamy Catupiry cheese, crunchy pepitas and peanuts, deserves a spot on your table, too.

The drinks: The cocktail menu borrows from South American drinking culture, featuring a classic caipirinha alongside tropical sips like the coconut-and-passion-fruit Batida and a Rhum Old Fashioned made with coffee demerara and tiki bitters. Wine lovers can explore a list devoted to South American bottles

Time Out tip: Don’t want to make any decisions? Opt for the Leap of Faith tasting menu to let the kitchen surprise you with a personalized lineup of dishes.