The best bites we had in March

Here are our picks:

🥢 Alayna: Wok Spicy in Englewood is officially my new Chinese standby — a humble gem that nails bold, fiery Sichuan flavors. The dry wok lotus root is a masterclass in texture and heat, and the $3.95 beers don't hurt either. It's no-frills and totally addictive.

• My other new obsession is at Leven Deli in the Golden Triangle. Their huge chocolate tahini brownie with malted milk is everything: fudgy yet crunchy, sweet yet salty. I'm not a sweets person — but I crave this regularly, and that's saying something.

🍔 Esteban: Ambler, which serves American fare at its location near Union Station, debuted its dinner menu this month.

• I started with mouthwatering caramelized Brussels sprouts before the main event: The smash burger, served with two meaty patties and delicious, thick-cut fries on the side. Pro tip: Grab the creamy chocolate mousse for dessert.

🍎​​ Gigi: This one surprised me, but on a recent takeout roulette adventure, I tested a "chopped cheese" from Big Apple Bodega on South Broadway.

• Their classic New York sandwich is grilled to perfection with a hearty helping of ground beef and onions, topped with melty cheese, lettuce, tomato and condiments on a hero roll shipped directly from the Big Apple daily. Perfect to share.