If you’re planning a night out with friends or a date in the West Village, Calle Dao‘s downtown location serves Cuban-Chinese fusion dishes and cocktails with reasonable prices.
The name is a nod to Havana’s once-thriving El Barrio Chino (Chinatown), dating back to the 1870s. As the Cuban and Chinese cultures mixed, a unique fusion of cuisine emerged. Today, El Barrio Chino occupies a small section of the narrow Calle Cuchillo – Knife Street – from which Calle Dão takes its name.
Their Calle Dao Mojito is a sure fire crowd pleaser with Rum, Ginger Liqueur, Shiso Leaves, Lemongrass, Fresh Lime Juice, and a splash of Champagne for just a little twist. The Opium cocktail is refreshing too, with Bourbon, Tamarind, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Lemon, and Poppy Seeds.
Perfectly tasty appetizer bites to share include the Steamed Shrimp Wantons, and the Papas Rellenas, with Cuban Beef Picadillo Croquette, Chopped Sofrito, and Garlic Aioli. There are other fun selections on the menu too, such as Chicken Empanadas and Cuban Sandwich Spring Rolls.
The Ropa Vieja Noodles are a must, spicy but also filled with flavor, featuring an eight hr. Slow Roasted Brisket, Sauteed Peppers, Onions & Mushrooms, in a Sichuan Soy Glaze. We also enjoyed another classic, Chicken and Yellow Rice, with Marinated Chicken, Saffron Rice, Peas, Sofrito, Scallion-Ginger Sauce. There are vegetarian options too, including tofu stir fry, and a large selection of sides, from Garlic Bok Choy, Yucca Fries, Stir-Fry Cashew Cauliflower, and more.
Calle Dao also serves up a Bottomless Brunch that’s a steal with cocktails at $9.99. Order as many classic brunch cocktails as you’d like in 90 minutes, with purchase of an entree or sandwich. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday, 11am-4pm.
Calle Dao has additional locations in Chelsea and Bryant Park. For reservations, visit calledao.com.