Salvation Taco's Moroccan Lamb-Breast On Naan | Murray Hill, New York
April Bloomfield & Co. go Mexican in Murray Hill
Even April Bloomfield knows you sometimes have to call for backup.
Especially when faced with a project as incongruous as the new Salvation Taco.
Situated in Murray Hill's Pod 39 Hotel (with rooms clocking in at a very cozy 60 square feet), the location, concept and cuisine of this taqueria couldn't be more different from those of the Spotted Pig, the Breslin Bar & Dining Room and the John Dory Oyster Bar.
Enter Roberto Santibañez, of Fonda in Park Slope and the East Village.
Together, the two double-teamed menu development process, yielding delights such as barbecued Moroccan lamb-breast "tacos" on puffy naan ($5), the resolutely fresh tomatillo-and-jicama salad ($10), and confit chicken thighs layered with crisp bits of skin, avocados and beans in a jaw-stretching torta ($7).
The hotel location brings unexpected blessings in the form of all-day dining. There's breakfast, then a lunch hopping with Midtown workers, and an evening happy-hour special of three al pastor tacos and a can of Modelo ($10), served Monday through Friday, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Oh, to have chef friends in delicious places.
Salvation Taco, 145 E. 39th St. (between Third & Lexington aves.); 212-865-5800 or salvationtaco.com