Bites Nearby

Upon first read, nothing on the menu at may sound exceptional -- the usual tacos, quesadillas, tamales and so on. But do not be fooled. The ingredients used in each dish are unexpected and unbelievably delicious.

For starters, the chips: Freshly made every half hour, the restaurant offers wheat, corn, and blue corn chips. The wheat chips have a crisp outside with a soft warm center that actually melts in your mouth, something I never thought chips could do. Dipped in any of their three salsas or guacamole (a chunky, fresh dip with cilantro, tomato, and onion), a single bite can send you reeling. And that's just the appetizer.

This is not "authentic Mexican food," Christopher, one of the two owners of Alcatraz makes sure to clarify. Chef Sharp, the other owner, has specialized in Asian fusion and Barbecue, amongst other cuisines.  They have beef brisket tacos and chicken tacos.

And then there is the fish taco, one of the most famous items on the menu, which is filled with battered and fried mahi mahi and chipotle aioli. The aioli, a creamy sauce made from smoked jalapenos, goes perfectly with the crispy fish and fresh pico de gallo.

If there is one thing that you absolutely must try on your visit to Alcatraz, it is Mexican hot chocolate, made with real chocolate (far superior to a Hershey’s bar), cloves, chili pepper, and cinnamon. The result is a thick, hot, drink that slides down your throat, never too sweet, and with a sharp tang that almost tastes like a liqueur. They offer several other freshly made drinks, including horchata, watermelon ginger lemonade, and batido de coco.

It’s BYOB, so bring your favorite rum to mix with their house blend of batido de coco (made from coconut and lime)!

Alcatraz is located at 344 Franklin Avenue, between Greene and Lexington Avenues.

*Note: This article is an abbreviated version of one that ran on Bed-Stuy Patch January 14, 2011. To read the full review, click here.