Corned beef and cabbage, not your thing? No disrespect to the Irish-American classic, but sometimes it takes a different animal to soak up those St. Patty’s Day pints. We suggest hitting these Zerocater favorites when you’re looking to coat your stomach this afternoon.
Calexico, Lower East Side
Three friends hailing from the Calexico region in California came up with the idea of this great concept. They originally start doling tacos from a street cart, and after winning a Vendy award for the Best Street Food in New York City, opened up a brick and mortar in the Lower East Side, as well as a couple of different locations in Brooklyn.
What to order: Although you really can’t go wrong with anything on this menu, our favorite is the rolled quesadilla. Ample amounts of Monterey jack and cheddar cheeses are folded perfectly inside a flour tortilla, they also offer several veggie and meat options. We love the chipotle pork. Don’t forget the crack sauce, a twist on one of America’s favorite condiments.
Joe’s Pizza, Greenwich Village
This classic New York City establishment is considered a Greenwich Village institution. Joe Pozzuoli traveled from Naples in 1975, to craft what many consider the best slice in the city, and he still owns and operates the no-frills shop today.
What to order: The best part about Joe’s is that it sticks to the basics, and executes them flawlessly. You can stick to classics and get a crispy crust, to sauces, to cheese ratio plain slice, or a thick, hearty Sicilian slice. Ignore your body’s attempt to tell you that you’re full, and go ahead and devour a fresh mozzarella slice as well.
Mamak, Williamsburg
Owner Erik Cheah moved to the United States at age 15 from Penang, Malaysia, where he was born and raised. He has always had a passion for cooking and uses the freshest local ingredients. Erik attended culinary school and worked at several New York City staples—including Per Se—before deciding to go back to his roots and open Mamak.
What to order: Although you could probably make a meal out of their vegetable lumpia rolls with sweet chili sauce, the Ramen has been the ideal meal to soak up all the fun from the night before. We love the curry soup base and top it off with chicken rendang, beef rendang or vegetable rendang (sometimes all three, if we’re being real here), with all the accompaniments.
