El Centro

54th St and 9th Ave, Manhattan
www.elcentro-nyc.com


On this bank holiday, the milagros of El Centro welcomed Ryan and I for lunch with cold air, free chips and salsa, and comfy bench seats. The chips are excellent and the salsa somewhat spicy--our only immediate disappointment was Ryan's flat Coke. I ordered the cheese enchiladas for $11, which come with plain black beans and Spanish rice, but the enchiladas themselves are excellent. They have a spicy red sauce and shredded lettuce and radish garnish on top. Ryan gave me his guacamole (from his chicken burrito as big as his head). All said we left very full and satisfied. No waiting and the air conditioning a major plus. Will surely visit again for sangria or margaritas at a more appropriate hour.

3 petals
reasonably priced, air, good decor, chips and salsa included

Birch Coffee

27th St between 5th and Madison, Manhattan
www.birchcoffee.com


Today I met Anne V., her brother, and his Aussie wife for brunch at Birch Coffee. The cafe is adjoined to the uniquely fronted Gershwin Hotel, and it was spacious and virtually empty on our nation's birthday. I sampled the vegetarian sandwich (smoked tofu, walnut pesto, tomatoes, and carrots on house-made focaccia) and a large iced coffee with milk. The veggie sandwich was good but too salty, as was the side salad, and my companions remarked that their food was mysteriously salty as well. Aussie Stacy had the grilled cheese sliders, which she described as little butter nuggets. I might stop in again for a beverage but I'll avoid the sandwiches. Maybe waffles next time.

3 petals
inexpensive, good beverages, not crowded