I had forgotten that I’d been to the opening of Calle Dao as it was five years ago — pre-COVID — until I bit into one of their Cuban Sandwich spring rolls ($12 for 4) served with spicy mustard. One bite of these unusual spring rolls filled with roast pork, ham and salami — the makings of a Cuban sandwich — and my memory kicked in.

We had arrived during their happy hour (weekdays 5 to 7 pm), grabbing a bite before we attended Annie Lebovitz speaking at SVA about her latest photography book, Wonderland.

My friend ordered a dozen oysters ($24, HH pricing). In addition, we ordered the other selections from their happy hour menu.  I’d recommend  their crispy wings ($9) in sesame-flavored chili sauce and their lechon on tostones ($9 for 3), fried plantains topped with chopped barbecue.

From their regular menu, we selected their chicken empanada served with a curried mojo sauce (two for $13) and the above-mentioned spring rolls.

I’d recommend a visit if you’re attending anything at SVA on West 23.

Calle Dao Chelsea
Chelsea
461 West 23
New York, NY 10011
212.414.4104
calledao.com