Asia de Cuba

237 Madison Ave, Morgans Hotel, New York, NY 10016 212-726-7755

Description: MURRAY HILL. Located in the Morgan Hotel, this Murray Hill restaurant is "in" with both middle-age business types who wield briefcases and cell phones and the younger, black-clad artsy crowd. One of the hottest restaurants in the city right now, Asia de Cuba serves up excellent Asian-Cuban cuisine. Each "Chino-Latino" entree serves up a multitude of ingredients to thoroughly delight the palate. Try a group rum concoction and people-watch Manhattan's truly "beautiful people." The communal tables are a gas. TRAIN: 6 to 33rd St; 4, 5 to 42nd St
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Calle Ocho

446 Columbus Ave, between 81st and 82nd Sts, New York, NY 10024-5130 212-873-5025

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Exotic and exciting, Calle Ocho offers an air of mystery. The interior space features copper walls, whitewashed wood ceilings and dramatic black steel accents. The food is just as mysterious with dishes that focus on the flavors and textures of Latin America. Try their specialty, the crispy snapper entree, or delve into the black bass swathed in banana leaves. Wash it all down with sangria while enjoying the lively, upbeat atmosphere. Reservations accepted. Casual dress. TRAIN: B, C to 81st St
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Chimichurri Grill

609 9th Ave, between 43rd and 44th Sts, New York, NY 10036-4113 212-586-8655

Description: HELL'S KITCHEN. This diminutive restaurant offers up extreme Argentinean tastes at this Ninth Avenue location. Guests feast on the likes of filet mignon, Black Angus steak and homemade pasta in a casual, laid-back environment that is at once welcoming and dynamic. Waitstaff are helpful and knowledgeable. Reservations accepted. Smart casual dress appropriate. TRAIN: A, C, E to 42nd St-Port Authority
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Churrascaria Plataforma

316 W 49th St, between 8th & 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019 212-245-0505

Description: HELL'S KITCHEN. Don't come to this Brazilian rodizio unless you are hungry, for Churrascaria Plataforma prides itself on serving up great tasting, all you-can-eat South American fare. This festive restaurant is great for groups who want to discuss world events and the latest economic trends over a few potent caipirinhas, some garlic pressed meat and nice helpings of fired potatoes and yuca. The restaurant features live music Thursday through Saturday. Reservations are suggested; casual dress appropriate. TRAIN: C, E to 50th St
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Hell's Kitchen

679 9th Ave, between 46th and 47th Sts, New York, NY 10036 212-977-1588

Description: HELL'S KITCHEN. With a name like this, the food here should be extraordinary! Fiery Mexican cuisine served here, including specialties like Seven Chile Pork Chop Mixiote with drunken pinto beans, grilled cactus and sweet potato flauta. This kitchen's a popular place so arrive early or expect to wait. Casual dress appropriate and pre-theater dinner reservations accepted. TRAIN: C, E to 50th St
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Ideya

349 W Broadway, between Broome and Grand St, New York, NY 10012 212-625-1441

Description: SOHO. Primarily popular for its unmatched selection of specialty cocktails (most containing rum), Ideya enjoys the patronage of the neighborhood sophisticates hoping to be part of "the scene." Inside you'll find a tastefully done tropical theme, ceiling fans, a veritable rainbow of bottles behind the bar, island graffiti and smooth Brazilian jazz in the background. Enjoy such traditional Latin dishes as Peruvian sea scallops, Uruguayan pork chops and the house's famous Medio Dia (a delicious pressed ham and pork sandwich). Monday is Salsa Night. TRAIN: A, C, E to Canal St
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La Esquina Taqueria and Cafe

114 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012 646-613-7100

Description: LITTLE ITALY. The neon sign above this corner restaurant beckons to weary and hungry passersby, promising wallet-friendly and edible snacks for the late night munchies. The taqueria does not disappoint, with tasty chorizo tacos and plates of enchiladas. However, La Esquina does more. In the cafe around the corner, aged wood paneling and recessed bookshelves give off an air of worn-in familiarity, like the creases and contours of a favorite leather chair. You can enjoy more substantial fare like a pulled chicken stew with chipotle and cinnamon in this relaxed atmosphere.
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Maya

1191 1st Ave, between 64th and 65th Sts, New York, NY 10021 212-585-1818

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Want a twist on the traditional idea of Mexican cuisine? Maya's provides just that ­ lobster juxtaposed with tortillas, spicy peppers united with shrimp and scallops, and pork paired with pumpkin seed sauce. Chef and owner Richard Sandoval provides only the most innovative cuisine. He's also proud of his restaurant, whose interior features dim lighting, warm hues, and Mayan décor. Dinner reservations are suggested. TRAIN: Lexington Ave-59th St N, R, 4, 5, 6; 6 to 68th St-Hunter College
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Maz Mezcal

316 E 86th St, Between 1st and 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028 212-472-1599

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Located between First and Second Avenues, Maz Mezcal recently underwent renovations, so it's not as snug as it used to be. Make no mistake, though, it still gets quite packed. Expect to see a lot of happy revelers here, sipping on tasty (and potent) margaritas and going through basket after basket of complimentary tortilla chips. When you get around to ordering, keep in mind the fajitas ­ beef, chicken or shrimp, you can't go wrong. Free delivery is available. Dinner reservations are suggested, especially on the weekends. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St
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Negril Village

70 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10011 212-477-2804

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. Sample fork-tender oxtails with rice, peas and sweet plantains accompanied by Jamaican punch in a festive "reggae" atmosphere at Negril. Feel the ocean breeze (almost) as you taste the jerked shrimp in pineapple sauce with fried plantains. And the affordable prices won't leave you feeling like you have blown it out. Reservations accepted.
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Nobu 57

40 W 57th St, between 5th & 6th Ave, New York, NY 10019 212-757-3000

Description: MIDTOWN WEST. When Nobu Matsuhisa opened his 57th Street restaurant (backed by folks like Robert De Niro and noted restaurateur Drew Nieporent), it was easily one of the most eagerly anticipated Midtown debuts during the summer of '05. Folks the world over are accustomed to nothing less than magic from the electric Nobu, whose creative takes include yellowtail with jalaeño, miso-marinated artic char and Chilean sea bass with black bean sauce. A true "scene," the two-floor restaurant was designed by David Rockwell, who drew inspiration from harmonic image of a river winding its way through the dramatic landscape of Japan. TRAIN: F to 57th St
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Nobu Next Door

105 Hudson St, between Franklin & N Moore St, New York, NY 10013 212-334-4445

Description: TRIBECA. Japanese-Peruvian fusion fare soars to unbelievable heights at this off-shoot of the original (and legendary) Nobu. Make no mistake: The scene at Next Door is completely independent of that at its elder sibling, but it's no less evocative. Designed by David Rockwell, the sleek space recalls the seaside ­ one of the walls is even made of nori. The fare, meanwhile, mirrors that of Nobu. Chef Matsuhisa's multi-course omakase menus are even available ($80-120 per person). TRAIN: 1, 9 to Franklin St
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Pampano

209 E 49th St, between 2nd & 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10017 212-751-4545

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. Expect no burritos or chile rellanos at this suave Midtowner, which is seeking to refine the concept of Modern Mexican cuisine. Indeed, Chef Richard Sandoval combines the art of haute cuisine with a strong passion for his native Mexico. This marriage results in a dining experience that is simply unparalleled. Start with the three or four-ceviche tasting or, perhaps, the octopus and aurugla salad. From there, Sandoval truly shines, as the main courses include golden bass with huitlacoche flan, swordfish with potato-caper fondue, and grilled chicken with requesón-huitlacoche and grilled cactus. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 51st St; E to Lexington Ave
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Pampano Taquería

805 Third Ave, Crystal Pavilion Food Court, New York, NY 10022 212-751-5257

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. Chef Richard Sandoval's version of a traditional Mexican taco stand features some the city's tastiest renditions of tacos, burritos, quesadillas and tortas. Great prices, too!
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Rice 'n' Beans

744 9th Ave, between 50th & 51st Sts, New York, NY 10019 212-265-4444

Description: HELL'S KITCHEN. This tiny eatery packs a big punch with its great Brazilian food. In fact, the likes of Cyndi Lauper and Sarah Jessica Parker can attest to the delicious eats, as they have frequented this place. If it's seafood you're after, try the Shrimp Babia Style (a shrimp casserole adorned with green peppers, onions and tomatoes) or the fresh cod, prepared Portuguese style. If not seafood, try the boneless grilled chicken breast that's topped with fresh tomatoes and a savory herb sauce. For the grand finale, order one of the homemade desserts or the tropical fruit shake ­ very refreshing. Delivery and take-out available. Reservations not accepted. Casual dress. TRAIN: C, E to 50th St
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Rocking Horse Cafe Mexicano

182 8th Ave, at 19th St, New York, NY 10011 212-463-9511

Description: CHELSEA. Only in New York will you find a French chef whose specialty is haute Mexican cuisine. The restaurant itself, nestled between 19th and 20th Streets, is a sublime place, featuring Mexican décor and artwork with a contemporary lilt. Chef Cacace's innovative ­ and popular ­ brunch menu includes such favorites as poached eggs with cured ham on corn rakes with chipotle hollandaise, Camarones con Mango y Cebolla served with mango salsa and marinated red onion, and chile-rubbed salmon served with vegetable ragout. Brunch reservations are a must, especially on the weekends. TRAIN: C, E to 23rd St
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Rosa Mexicano

1063 1st Ave, at 58th St, New York, NY 10022 212-753-7407

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. This high-end Mexican delight is presided over by the incomparable Josefina Howard, who first introduced Eastside residents to the delights of authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu is upscale and without the tacos and burritos that most Mexican diners come to expect. The tequila is exceptional as are the Pomegranate Maragaritas. The guacamole is a must. TRAIN: N, R to Lexington Ave; 4, 5, 6 to 59th St
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