Victor's Cafe 52   

236 W 52nd St # 1
New York, NY 10019
212-586-7714
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The SceneSalsa music, swaying palms and a courteous, accommodating waitstaff are this stalwart's formula (it opened in 1963) for transporting customers to Batiste-era Cuba. It's a great spot for groups and a favorite among celebs--Gloria Estefan and Marc Anthony are regulars.The FoodStick with traditional fare. The moist, hearty Cuban tamale, served with a mild pepper sauce, makes a nice starter, as does yuca con mojo, a surprisingly delicious boiled root vegetable. The best entrees have the least appetizing translations: ropa vieja, "old clothes," is meltingly tender shredded skirt steak served with fried and fresh vegetables; veca frita, "fried cow," is toothsome churrasco steak on mashed plantains. Pork dishes are also good. But steer clear of the flavorless seafood, and beware that the heavy-handed kitchen tends to overcook chicken and fish. Desserts are achingly sweet and gloopy--have another mojito instead.