New York's top chefs reveal their favorite new restaurants of 2016

We've already detailed our favorite new restaurants of 2016, from pasta powerhouse Lilia to Nordic great Aska. Now we're giving it over to the pros from those esteemed kitchens to tell us their favorite spots of the year—and the answers may surprise you.

Photograph: Courtesy of Olmsted

Olmsted's Greg Baxtrom:  
“I’m from Chicago, where great Mexican food is everywhere, but here in New York, it’s a bit harder to come by. If I’m not heading to Empellon al Pastor, then I’m at El Atoradero (708 Washington Ave, Brooklyn). It’s just a few blocks from Olmsted, so I love stopping by for some guacamole and tacos. Get the lengua and cochinita pibil!” 

Lilia's Missy Robbins: 
“Le Coucou (138 Lafayette St). I like that Daniel [Rose] is bringing back old French classics and executing at such a high level. The vibe of the restaurant is mature and grown up without being pretentious.”

Aska, Fredrik Berselius:
“Sunday in Brooklyn (348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn) opened only recently, but it is already the place I know I will be frequenting on my days off. I love the food, what they have done with the space and their overall sustainable philosophy.”

Photograph: Jill Futter

Emmy Squared's Matt Hyland:
“My favorite new restaurant is Pig Beach (480 Union St, Brooklyn). Last year it was a pop-up, and this year, the permanent location is smoking some of the best BBQ in the city. They make excellent brisket, but I am into ribs, and they are absolutely perfect. Also, the wings with white sauce are my new favorites in the city.” 

Pasquale Jones, Ryan Hardy

“Just recently, I got to enjoy Jared Sippel’s new spot, Italienne (19 W 24th St). The way he offers fine, traditional cuisine in a comfortable space creates a juxtaposition that really works. I’m also really looking forward to cozying up at Loring Place (21 W 8th St).”