Brassica may be particularly pint-sized, but what this Forest Hills venue lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in stiff drinks and vibrant small plates. A certifiable JP chameleon, the spot slings handmade pastries and sandwiches during daylight hours as Brassica Cafe, then emerges during the evening as Brassica Kitchen, a polished bistro that’s mastered the art of fermentation-forward dining. While the Fried Sweet Rice and B.K. Fried Chicken are both particularly pleasing to the palate, be sure to check out the top-tier cocktail list, a sizable selection of beverages that spans from housemade amaro to the mezcal and elderflower-loaded Gray Gardens.

In need of a stiff drink that will transport you across the globe with a single sip? Make that dream a reality with Banyan Bar, a South End staple for colorful cocktails and flavorful fusion cuisine. Although Asian-inspired favorites like Crab Rangoon Dip, Cauliflower Okonomiyaki, and Lobster Roll Bao all grace the menu, the star attraction here is the cocktail list, offering heavy hitters like the fiery Thai chili vodka-forward Supreme Leader and the Wildfire, a classic blend of pineapple tequila, mezcal, ango, and salty simple syrup.