Alphabet City Gets a Lovely Latin Spot, Secara

(Photos courtesy of Secara)

On the heels of Marcha Cocina’s opening, the East Village just got another chic Latin fusion spot. Visitors to Secara can expect “wholesome homestyle meals, prepared traditionally and presented in a contemporary way,” according to general manager Alberto Spadnuda.

“It’s a family business,” said Spadnuda, explaining how Colombian owner Adolfo Toro and his cousin’s long-held dream to start a restaurant finally came to fruition. They’ve turned the former home of The Cardinal, on East 4th Street, into “a cozy neighbourhood place, a place for the people.”

The food spans “several South American countries,” per Spadnuda, who singled out the fluke ceviche, empanadas and arepas “made from scratch,” and the bandeja paisa — a combination curacao steak, chicharon, arepas aleja and sweet plantain. “It’s like a flag for latin fusion,” he said.

Have a look at the menu here.

Secara, 234 E 4th St., nr. Avenue B; (917) 475-1892