Food incites emotion. Ask a guy to recall his mother’s most delicious dessert or his favorite meal on his last trip to Italy, and he’ll likely have plenty to say. Perhaps because they’re food-related, shows on the Food Network conjure similar passions—just read any blog comment on perky Rachael Ray, sultry Giada DeLaurentiis or exuberant Emeril Lagasse. It seems that even when we’re not eating their meals, we often respond to the processes and presentations as if we’re a part of them.

Like them or not, the proliferation of cooking shows has made people more curious than ever about what others are swilling, stirring, baking, and braising. This voyeurism has encouraged diners to gravitate from booths to bars and into dining rooms that allow them access to the kitchen.

Both mid-priced and haute dining rooms around town have created spaces that show diners what’s happening on the range, in the oven, and on the chopping block. Stop by Crème to watch chef Terrell Danley barely break a sweat as he plates that Kobe beef hot dog with homemade condiments. Peek into the CityZen open kitchen for a glimpse of the ingredients prepped for the night’s entrees. Book a seat at Jose Andres’ Minibar to admire how expertly the masters prepare courses from the tasting menu. Or check out the dramatic kitchen at the new Agraria, where diners can see a sous-chef at every station.