Who doesn't love the delicate, sweet crunch of a lightly caramelized surface? There's nothing like the satisfying tap of spoon on sugar before you make your way into a deep bowl of custard and pudding. A sprinkle of sugar, a light torch or a trip in the broiler; that simple touch makes all the difference. More

Keep an eye out for the Butternut Squash Crème Brûlée ($8), the single housemade dessert. More

The focus of the menu at the recently opened Yuba in the East Village is, as you would expect, yuba—best known as tofu skin or beancurd sheet. Prices are high at dinner, but a $16 lunch prix fixe makes it a more affordable lunch option. More