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Restaurants beloved by chefs are often lesser known, neighborhood spots serving honest, delicious food. These hidden gems are where the city’s top cooks look forward to unwinding.
If you’ve ever wondered where chefs go when they’re done cooking for others, these 14 spots, loved by industry insiders, are worth exploring for anyone who knows flavor matters.
BCD Tofu House
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In New York City’s Koreatown, chef Esther Choi of Mokbar visits BCD Tofu House for its warming, house made tofu stew. It is comforting, bold, and reliably delicious, especially for late night cravings after a long restaurant shift.
Great NY Noodletown
In the heart of Chinatown in New York City, Chef Alex Raij swears by the crispy roast duck and garlicky greens at Great NY Noodletown. The fast service, no fuss atmosphere, and deep flavors keep her coming back after busy nights behind the stove.
Veselka
Chef Alex Guarnaschelli visits Veselka in Manhattan’s East Village for beet borscht and buttery pierogies. The Ukrainian diner is open late and known for food that soothes. She loves its warm, traditional meals and how it feels like stepping into a simpler time.
J. Hollinger’s Waterman’s Chophouse
In Silver Spring, Maryland, J. Hollinger’s draws in chefs with its old school seafood and steaks. The setting is clean, classic, and calming. After a fast paced night of cooking, it offers chefs a proper seat, rich flavors, and no pressure to impress anyone.
St. James
Penn Quarter in Washington, D.C. is home to St. James, a chef favorite for bold, ingredient driven American fare. The restaurant mixes creative plating with comforting flavors. It is the kind of place where professionals eat slowly, savor the balance, and breathe a little deeper.
Anajak Thai
Located in East Hollywood, Anajak Thai is beloved by L.A. chefs for its fiery Southern Thai flavors. From crispy rice salads to curry crab, everything bursts with personality. It is where chefs go when they want a taste of home, depth, and warmth.
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Baja Subs Market & Deli
In Los Angeles, Baja Subs is where chefs stop for shrimp tacos and stuffed sandwiches. The ingredients are fresh, the portions generous, and the service fast. It is the kind of hidden deli that keeps your belly full and your heart a little lighter.
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Bavel
Los Angeles’ Arts District is home to Bavel, a modern Middle Eastern spot that chefs admire for its daring flavors and inventive menu. With smoked lamb, airy hummus, and fresh baked bread, the restaurant feels like a master class in balance and bold creativity.
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Bestia
Bestia, tucked in Los Angeles’ warehouse district, is a favorite among chefs for house made charcuterie and rustic pastas. The space is lively, the food unforgettable. Chefs come not just to eat, but to feel reconnected with the soul of Italian cooking.
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Bridgetown Roti
In Los Angeles, Bridgetown Roti serves up rich Caribbean comfort food. Chefs love the flaky roti, slow cooked meats, and punchy seasonings. Whether on lunch break or off duty, they turn to this spot for familiar heat, texture, and food that feels like home.
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The Little Lamb Gastropub
Down in Clearwater, Florida, The Little Lamb Gastropub welcomes chefs like Jon Walker who crave crunchy shrimp toast and spicy dry rub wings. The cozy interior and well poured drinks help top professionals enjoy the quiet luxury of eating great food made by someone else.
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ChopnBlok
Houston’s ChopnBlok is where Top Chef alum Michelle Wallace finds West African dishes made with care and heat. Suya beef, jollof rice, and spicy plantains bring her joy. She says the place feeds her soul and reminds her why she loves food.
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Prince’s Hot Chicken
Chef David Chang of Momofuku often heads to Prince’s Hot Chicken in Nashville, Tennessee. This legendary spot serves fiery, crispy hot chicken piled on white bread with pickles and breading dusted in cayenne. Chang loves its bold heat and perfectly balanced seasoning after long service shifts.
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Nopa
In San Francisco, California, chef Dominique Crenn takes time off by dining at Nopa. Known for rustic, wood fired cooking and seasonal Californian plates, this neighborhood spot features flatbreads, grilled vegetables, and intimate communal dining. It hits the perfect note of relaxed, flavorful comfort.
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When chefs are off duty, they search for honest food that does not need showmanship to shine. These hidden gems offer soul, comfort, and a quiet joy. Visiting them is not just about the meal; it is a reminder of why food matters.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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