The best part about this place, though, is that even on a sunny Saturday afternoon it feels like a party. The aforementioned staff are friendly and amazingly into their patrons imbibing and enjoying themselves. And, boy, do most of the people seem to be enjoying themselves. The space, tin-ceilinged and brick-walled, is tiny, but well appointed and well lit. It feels like a small cafe in Europe or possibly Cuba (because, who the hell knows what Cuba is like given we haven’t seen a real photo since 1963). The food, like a bunch of these brunch deals, is somehow secondary. The ropa vieja was good and the supporting items (aka rice and beans) were gobbled so quickly I hardly had time to taste them. But, really, rice and beans and plantains are things I could live on for the rest of eternity.
I think fun is underrated when it comes to restaurants. We like fancy, or trendy or exclusive. But sometimes you just want to sit with a few friends, catch up on old times and drink your face off when the sun is still up.
222 Thompson St. (bet. Bleecker & W 3rd)
212/420-7878
cubanyc.com