Kiwiana; Brooklyn, New York (Rest.)

*****
“My nana was a firm believer that if a braise was missing something, it could always be made better with a wee bit of Marmite,” says Top Chef: Chicago competitor Mark Simmons who channels his New Zealand upbringing for this Park Slope spot. It’s a philosophy he adheres to in dishes like baby back ribs braised in the savory, umami-rich condiment. Other popular Kiwi ingredients make appearances: horopito pepper, a flowering evergreen with a peppery bite; and Golden Syrup, a cane sugar sweetener used in desserts. http://www.kiwiananyc.com