El Cocotero @ NYC ****

Fried Sweet Plaintains

Ever since reading Dave Cook’s compelling description of the patacón sandwich in the $25 and under section of the NYT, El Cocotero had been on my list. An enormous Venezualan flag adorns the entrance of this otherwise unassuming little establishment where  reggaeton plays loudly and lighting is so dim that diners must resort to casting light from various digital devices in order to read the disproportionately extensive menu.

Besides a stunning array of sandwiches such as the Pabellon (Shredded beef with Black Beans and Sweet Plantains), made with crispy fried plantains instead of bread, there are also a variety of arepas (corn tortillas) with myriad fillings as well as numerous delicious-sounding main meals options suhc as the Camarone Cocotero (Sauteed Shrimp in Cilantro Pesto, Crispy Green Plantains and Salad). As you have probably noticed, plantain in all its glorious permuations are what this restaurant does best. Again and again, I can’t help but feel amazed at the stunning amount of severely underrated RGF available within walking distance of my West Village apartment! This proximity combined with a nostalgic longing for a childhood favorite, goreng pisang (moist, warm banana enveloped in a delicate flaky crust of fried batter), will ensure my frequent return.

Details: 228 W 18th St # 1 New York, NY 10011-4529 (+1-212-206-8930)