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Cafe Habana / Habana To Go

17 Prince St. at Elizabeth Street, Little Italy

Back in the bespoke hood--of aforementioned catchy nickname and scenester cachet that is--Cafe Habana and its runt sibling, Habana To Go, sling substantial cuban / pan-latino fare to a decidedly beautiful clientele. Which is quite remarkable really, considering that these twins are probably older than another juggernaut pair, the Olsen's, and have managed to avoid culinary complacency and continue to provide food and service of a good quality. I'm not really sure if the same can be said about Mary Kate and Ashley's latest detective caper, but man, those DVD only releases sure do pad the Papers.

Expect serious crowds almost nightly at Habana, unless you opt for the take out, which serves a nearly identical menu as the sit-down, with more of an emphasis on portables, such as tortas and burritos. Regardless of which room you choose, start with the Mexican Grilled Corn, a nicely charred cob slathered in a salty mixture of mayo and grated cheese. Its not for the calorie or cholesterol conscious, but piety be damned, the indulgence is worth it. Move on to the reliable cuban sandwich, an inconsistently composed though typically good rendition of the staple torta, roast pork and ham pressed between Parisi bread with swiss cheese and pickles. It comes with chipotle mayo as well, but opt for a bit of the Garlic Mojito on the side and dunk or dress your sandwich as you wish, just be prepared for some toxic breath following. Tostones, fried green plantains, provide a fair accompaniment in lieu of french fries, but would benefit greatly from a bit of salt and a minute or so less in the fryer.

As for entrees, the corn cakes have a stellar reputation, and the Pollo Mirador, chicken in a light sauce of lemon and garlic excels. A special of chicken skewers marinated in achiote, a voodoo concoction that I have yet to figure out in my own kitchen, was pleasantly spicy, albeit dry, well offset by juicy slices of mango and a heaping pile of rice. Mole fans beware however, the chicken mole is a grainy, stringy dissapointment overly sweet and lacking the chocolate complexity of a well done mole. The requisite margaritas abound, as well as a nice selection of mexican beers, sodas, and sangria, while a full bar in the restaurant provides for those who wish a cocktail before, with, or after. And speaking of after, slink to Habana To Go for a caffe con leche, a dance with Wilmer Valderrama, and a chance to sit and partake in some of the best people watching the city has to offer, Parliaments and Pumas at no extra cost!