23rd Street Cafe is a fusion experience

March 7, 2013 By Leave a Comment


By Tanaya Ghosh

Listen to an audio story from Annenberg Radio News.

Ever craved Indian food and Mexican food at the same time, and couldn’t decide where to go? Why not take both cuisines and roll them up into a burrito? That’s what 23rd Street Cafe does, and it does it well.

imageInside 23rd Street Cafe. (Photo by Tanaya Ghosh)

This place blends cuisines together seamlessly. If you’ve ever wondered what a samosa sandwich or a chicken curry taco tastes like, here’s your chance to taste for yourself.

23rd Street Café is on the corner of Portland Street and 23rd Street, just south of Downtown LA. It’s decorated in USC colors and memorabilia, and its close proximity to USC makes this humble yet spacious
eatery a popular destination for students. But the eclectic menu that combines Indian, Mexican and American fare appeals to local residents as well.

The breakfast burrito and chicken tikka masala burrito are some of the most popular items on the menu. The breakfast burrito’s fluffy egg contrasts nicely with the crispy strips of bacon. Hash browns blanket
the interior, and give the burrito more body and bite.

imageThe chicken tikka masala burrito combines the popular Indian dish with traditional burrito fillings. Chicken tikka masala consists of roasted chicken chunks, called tikka. The chicken is covered in a spicy,
or masala, sauce often made with tomato puree, cream and spices. If that’s not spicy enough for you, try adding the tangy house salsa verde to your burrito of choice.

Being of Indian heritage, I can tell you that although tikka masala is not a household staple, it is a popular dish with Indians and non-Indians alike. It’s perfect for eating out, or for special occasions.

The tikka masala burrito was a bit messier to eat than its breakfast counterpart, so I wouldn’t recommend ordering it on a first date!

For more information on 23rd Street Cafe, you can visit their website here.

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Fish shack in Crenshaw a hidden gem

February 21, 2013 By Leave a Comment


By Tanaya Ghosh
Listen to an audio story by Annenberg Radio News


Some of the best hidden gems in L.A. are tiny, unassuming eateries — and Mel’s Fish Shack is a prime example. If you’re a fan of delicious Cajun-style seafood fried up in a “homey,” friendly atmosphere, Mel’s is the spot for you.

The best part? Mel’s won’t force you to break the bank. Nearly everything on the menu is under $12. image

Mel’s Fish Shack is located in the Crenshaw District of Los Angeles. The fish is served fresh from their market — which you can visit just a few blocks away.

Once the staff discovered we were first timers, we couldn’t stop the flow of free samples. “This is your first time here,” the cook insisted, “And we’re gonna take good care of you.”

One of the best samples? The creamy, dreamy crab soup. The soup is available only on Mondays when Mel’s gets their fresh crab. The shells are cooked right in the pot, infusing a richer taste into the soup.

I ordered the grilled red snapper with grilled vegetables. We also ordered a fillet of sole, fried in a light Southern-style cornmeal batter.

The warm side of hush puppies are crunchy, springy soft bites of heaven in a deep fried ball. Dip them into Mel’s signature garlic-dill tartar sauce or hot sauce and they’re even more delicious.

Now, I’m picky with seafood. But Mel’s totally won me over. The grilled fish is amazingly fresh, and has no fishy taste. Each cut is firm and subtly seasoned with Cajun spices that give it a slightly spicy kick. The flavor of the fish really shines through.

Mel’s Fish Shack is a hole-in-the-wall adventure that’s totally worth it. You might come for the fresh seafood, but you’ll keep coming back for the excellent hospitality.

If you want to check it out for yourself, visit melsfishshack.com.

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