Cafecito   

Trade embargo or not, desperate diners have been known to sail on a midnight raft just to eat at this cute Cuban cabana. People usually discover this little place after languishing in long lines at Esperanto or Cafe Habana nearby -- and then instantly become regulars. Like mostly everything in the East Village, the interior is small but lively. It's always packed with bohemians and you can hear the kitchen clamoring with action. The menu is authentic Cuban; better yet, it serves massive portions; better still, it's terribly inexpensive. Start off with signature platanos maduros (fried plantains) or a sampler of bolos and empanadas. Regulars save stomach space, though, because they know it's all about the beef. The sandwiches are super-size, like the Cuban or Elena Ruz, an adobo turkey with cranberry salsa on crispy midnight bread. Even the names sound sexy. Finish with Cuban beer, mojitos or cafe con leche, then kick back, enjoy the open storefront view and the sweet, sweet sounds of live Spanish music.