Thursday, March 26, 2009

Cabrito Mexican Restaurant...what a find

We could not have stumbled upon a better place for a quick bite in the west village. With an hour to kill, we left the Jazz club looking for something fast and easy. We found a Mexican “gem” in the west village where the vibe was lively and the hostess and wait staff friendly.

In a hurry, we opted to sit at the bar. Immediately we were asked our drink order and the bartender offered to let us sample the draft beer as we were not as familiar with the options. The bar was fully stocked and from across the room, I saw a small group of people drinking a pitcher of sangria. In short, there are options for everyone.

We ordered only a small sampling of what the menu had to offer starting with house-made guacamole and chips. The chips were served warm and the guacamole was tasty with the perfect amount of spice. It was not overpowering like guacamole where you can’t actually taste the avocado because all your senses are focused on the fire in your mouth. This guac was great, rivaling some of the better guacs I’ve tasted it in the city.

We then shared a Huraches which is an oval shaped, thick masa shell. We ordered Al Carbon, the seared skirt steak option. Good choice. The dish came open faced; the soft, thick shell on the bottom topped with perfectly seasoned seared skirt steak, lettuce, a thin- barely noticeable layer of re-fried beans, and a sour cream sauce. The steak was salty without being too salty and cooked to a perfect medium rare. The chef was a little heavy-handed with the Sour Cream sauce but I got over it quickly because the dish as a whole was really enjoyable.

I would go back in a heart-beat and am already trying to plan a Mexican night with my girl friends. The prices were reasonable, the food good, and the environment lively – a good place to start your night out...

50 Carmine Street, NEW YORK 10014 - 212/929.5050