A Casa Fox

You may have thought you’ve barged into someone’s living room, but that’s the plan at this aptly named, Latin-centric LES spot. It’s a natural offshoot for film exec–turned–caterer–turned restaurateur Melissa Fox, whose gourmet catering business, A Casa, has won a fervent following for its crisp empanadas. They’re on full display here—in varieties like portobello with smoked Gouda and chorizo with Manchego—along with clay-pot dinners that combine meat (shredded herbed chicken, mustard-marinated shrimp) with Spanish rice and beans. Munch them down at the communal table, or sink into a sea of pillows in the corner—the “casa” in the name is there for a reason.

See more: Lower East Side restaurants, Latin american restaurants