You know a restaurant opening is an important one when, a few months later, you can't imagine New York without it. 2012, despite plenty of closures even before a catastrophic storm that crippled, closed, or delayed so many restaurants, was a fantastic year for eating in the city. Here are my favorites of the year: not just full-service restaurants, but the odd bakery, cocktail bar, and Mediterranean lunch joint thrown in for good measure.

• Perla
• NoMad
• Neta
• Empellón Cocina
• Talde
• Mission Chinese Food
• Pok Pok
• Biang!
• La Vara
• North End Grill

More Favorites

• Best Comeback: M. Wells Dinette
• Best Restyled Menu: Maison Premiere
• Best New Pizzeria: Don Antonio
• Favorite Little Brooklyn Restaurant: Lulu & Po
• Most Anticipated Comeback: Governor
• Best New Cocktail Bar: Pouring Ribbons
• Best New Bakery: Maison Kayser
• Favorite New Union Square Lunch Spot: Taboonette

About the author: Carey Jones is the Senior Managing Editor of Serious Eats. Follow her on Twitter (@careyjones).