Living by the motto, “we cook what we want to eat,” the chef at Black Orchid serves up a smorgasbord of fusion food that’s hard to pigeonhole. While the no-frills exterior and floor-to-ceiling mauve walls inside might not excite the senses, the food comes to the rescue. With colorful appetizers like collard green dip, served with warm, homemade tortilla chips, and soul food-inspired entrees like tamarind baby back ribs and Creole shrimp, everything on the menu is full of vibrant spice and flavor. The portions start out big, but each dish also comes with a choice of two sides. We recommend the collard greens, corn pudding, and especially the candied yams. Even the macaroni and cheese is a creamy delight. No matter what you order, make sure to wash down your meal with a sweat tea—theirs is spectacular. Regardless of what you’re in the mood for—Southern or Caribbean-inspired, even Italian—the chef at Black Orchid is ready to prepare it from scratch. Just plan on a wait—home-cooked meals take time!  (Open Tu-Su 11a-2p, 5p-9p.)