There will always be a place for old-school formal dining and phonebook-size wine lists that tip the table when they arrive. But if we’ve been reminded of anything over the past couple of years, it’s that what we love most about our favorite restaurants is a certain sense of connection, community and discovery. The 50 restaurants listed here are quite simply our favorite restaurants right now that are doing things a little different—they value engagement and compassionate business practices as much as they do offering innovative dining and imbibing experiences. Many are blurring lines between formal and casual dining, and between restaurants and wine bars, all offer opportunities to sip and savor wines and drinks that reflect those overall commitments and are making the world a less homogenous place. One thing we can promise: Pay a visit to any of these spots, and you are in for a memorable night you can feel good about in the morning.
ADARRA
Richmond, VA
With Virginia’s largest inventory of organic, biodynamic and low-intervention wines, this Basque-focused hotspot pays for staffers’ wine education to ensure meaningful conversations about the always changing list.
ALBI
Washington, D.C.
As enlightening as it is entertaining, Albi’s colorful wine list focuses
