Xiomara Ardolina opened this cozy spot—just around the corner from her acclaimed Xiomara—to showcase the authentic cuisine of her native Cuba.

The place has a stylish aura, with spare exposed brick, soothing taupe-colored walls and tables topped with white linen, butcher paper and candles. Standout dishes include creamy lamb croquetas, crunchy bacalao (salt cod) fritters, both presented rather elegantly with cool aioli-like dipping sauces. For entrees, the hearty ropa vieja, saffron-scented arroz con pollo, or flank steak topped with onions and parsley are all winners. There is a staple Cuban sandwich which is quite good, but the grilled manchego cheese and serrano ham sandwich served on potato-dill bread is delish.