Casa Mono, Gramercy Park At Mario Batali's first venture into Spain, ex-Babbo chef Andy Nusser oversees a menu of esoterica, like duck eggs with mojama (salt-cured tuna). Around the corner is sister spot Bar Jamón (125 E. 17th St.), a tiny tapas bar. DETAILS 52 Irving Pl.; 212-253-2773.
Megu, TriBeCa During a year when some top chefs took on Japanese cuisine (Eric Ripert at Geisha, Marcus Samuelsson at Riingo), Megu stands out. Owner Koji Imai's massive, pricey menu has lovely surprises, like chicken thighs with grapefruit-honey jelly. DETAILS 62 Thomas St.; 212-964-7777.
Kittichai, SoHo The Sixty Thompson hotel has brought in chef Ian Chalermkittichai, formerly of the Four Seasons Bangkok, to cook modern Thai dishes such as foie gras with lemongrass confit. DETAILS 60 Thompson St.; 212-219-2000.
'Cesca, Upper West Side Chef Tom Valenti's new restaurant is as big a hit as his nearby Ouest, with its hearty Italian dishes like raviolini stuffed with sweet shrimp. DETAILS 164 W. 75th St.; 212-787-6300.
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