This Week's New York City Grubs Under $10

22/03/10 09:22 Filed in: City Grub

José: Cuban Sandwich
Where: Favela Cubana 543 La Guardia Pl., West Village (212) 777-6500
Cost: $10

If you love meat like I do, then you’ll love this Cuban sandwich. From the first bite I was immediately transported to my grandfather’s bodega when I was a kid. The meat is tender and seasoned with all the right stuff. The grilled ham and cheese wrapped around this little piggy is just enough to make your eyes roll to the back of your head. For those that love pickles it packs the perfect crunch. The best surprise for me was the bread. Normally with hot sandwiches on baguettes, you have to work hard to get to the meaty stuff. This bread was warm, soft and fresh, like it was made to order.

favela cubana

Deena: Frappé & a Croissant
Where: Omonia Cafe 32-20 Broadway; Astoria, Queens
Cost: $5

Spring is coming, and if you have never had a frappé, this is the time to head to Astoria, where any corner cafe will serve you a great one. But Omonia's is one of the BEST! Frappe’s is a foamed covered coffee drink made very popular Greece, that’s now spreading to other countries. A giant flaky croissant accompanying the frappe makes one of the best breakfasts on the go or sitting in and relaxing at a table.

omonia cafe

José: Empanadas
Where: Favela Cubana 543 La Guardia Pl., West Village (212) 777-6500
Cost: $6.50

Yup! I’m featuring this place twice ‘cuz it was that good! These look small, but when you bite into them, it fills your mouth with all kinds of goodness. Now granted, it depends on what their empanadas of the day are, but if you like surprises like I do - I say go for it!