Kaia Wine Bar

Josh Levin (Babbo) and Suzaan Hauptfleisch (La Grenouille) trade European-style fine dining for a South African–inspired vino spot on the fringes of the Upper East Side. The bar's name means "home" in Zulu and it's reflected in the rustic 50-seat spot, which features cheery touches like canning jars filled with flowers. While the 50-bottle wine list highlights a variety of new-world vinos, the food offerings focus solely on South Africa with small plates like bunny chow (bread filled with chicken curry) and bobotie (spiced meat topped with egg custard).