Visit Spanish Harlem next time you are in New York
Harlem is not generally on visitors’ itineraries when visiting the Big Apple, but it should be. Within a city of immigrants, Harlem is the real immigrants quarter - where an extremely high percentage of the population were still born abroad. Within the different parts of Harlem, Spanish Harlem is the part that’s the most fun. That’s because you have the vibe of New York mixed with the lust for life that Latin Americans are known for.
One place that makes the entire trip up to the Northern end of Manhattan worthwhile – El Nuevo de Caridad (2257 2nd Ave, New York City, NY 10029). It’s not just the fresh ingredients at low-scale prices that appeals. The place is decorated with memorabilia from Latin American baseball legends, it has seen more celebrities pass through its doors than anyone would imagine given its low-key appearance, and the extremely helpful and friendly staff add to the overall experience.
Try the Skirt Steak if you dare. As one review on the web describes it, “the sizzle from the steak is kissing the ceiling”. The portions are monster-size. Come hungry or be prepared to go into a food coma for the rest of the day. I did have the steak (see photo) and it was delicious.
Spanish Harlem is a safe (!) part of New York that is too much fun to miss out on, but to which few tourists ever go.