Nirvana Restaurant & Lounge, Brooklyn

At its core, Nirvana Restaurant and Lounge is inspired by the Middle East. But its menu is definitely influenced by international foods, evident in dishes as wide-ranging as beef stroganoff, crispy whole branzini, and tuna tartar. And though kebabs might be one of the few wholly Mediterranean entrees available, the hookah lounge's water pipes offer a uniquely Middle Eastern experience. Smokers can order single flavors or combinations such as Babalou, a mango-peach blend. These tropical profiles are reminiscent of what's found on the cocktail menu, including blood-orange martinis and Salty Dogs with grapefruit juice. These drinks are the perfect complement to many of Nirvana's events, which have included New Year's masquerades and Beatz and Beer Pong.