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Itzocan Cafe is Michael Chernow's Choice for Mexican Food

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New York City is home to a lot of restaurants, more than any rational human being can ever hope to visit. Among that number are hidden gems the majority of New Yorkers just aren't unearthing. To help guide us to these potential discoveries, we've enlisted some of our city's many food luminaries to share with us their under the radar recommendations for Dining Confidential.

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Next up is The Meatball Shop co-owner Michael Chernow who offers up a pick he treasures so much, he almost wishes he hadn't.

"I grew up in NYC, eating is my passion, finding hidden gems is my mission. I love the low key spots that we try to keep amongst ourselves and our friends, I'm about to spill the beans on one of my faves. There is a spot that I love to go to with my wife, it’s called Itzocan Cafe on East 9th Street in the East Village. The spot is tiny, has all of about 18 seats, no more than 300 sq ft, always smoky and smells of freshly fried tortilla chips. The food is awesome, I have been going there with my wife for years. NYC is not known for great Mexican, but Itzocan handles the business for traditional Mexican cuisine. They do an AMAZING stuffed chicken breast, the shrimp dish is bananas and their skirt steak rules. The chips are some of the best around, killer guacamole and great salsa that will knock you off your feet."
—Gary Wong
· Itzocan Cafe [Official Site]
· All Dining Confidential Coverage [~ENY~]

Itzocan Cafe

438 East 9th St., New York, NY 10009