Opened by three artists in 1977, this restaurant has maintained its bohemian vibe despite the rapidly changing neighborhood. It’s one of those places that’s a good bet no matter the time of day, that’s popular yet usually with a table available, and that’s comfortable whether it’s your first time or your hundredth. The food is supremely tasty, with influences from around the world. The dinner menu includes dishes like country paté, Thai bouillabaisse, merguez meatballs, and a solid burger. The performance space downstairs has seen countless luminaries on its stage over the years (their website boasts that Suzanne Vega and The Vagina Monologues both got their start here), and they crank out some 700 readings and performances a year with twice-daily offerings.