Food: ☆☆☆☆

Ambiance: ☆☆☆½

Cost: $$

Must try: Avocado Cilantro Margaritas, Sardinas a la Plancha, Jarrete de Cordero

(This meal was complimentary which did not affect my review.)

I was recently invited to a press dinner at Oficina Latina to sample regional cuisine along the Pan-American Highway.

This wonderful bistro located in trendy Nolita is a great addition to the block. The Latin inspired space is cozy and inviting. The ambience recreates stops along the Pan-American Highway in the 1950s. They have a wonderful Bar which features an impressive selection of 100-plus tequilas and mezcals, 100-plus rums, piscos, a South American wine list and really interesting Cocktails.

At Oficina Latina, the food is the most unexpected part. What comes out of that kitchen, run by their maestro Chef Abraham Trinidad, is just brilliant! The casual Pan-Latin menu takes you on a delightful tasting fest all the way from Mexico to Argentina.

I thought that every dish I tried outdid the previous plate but for me the star of the show was a dish called Sardinas a la Plancha from Uruguay. I’m not a sardine’s fan and was a bit hesitant to try this dish but the fish was grilled to perfection.

The Lamb Shank was also divine! I love heat in my food so I added a little habenero to it – what an explosive combination that was! Do not skip dessert. We tried two kinds of flan chocolate and avocado which were both amazing.

You definitely have to finish your meal off the way we did with their signature “ Passion and Love” which is a shot of rum done “Colombian” style! It is presented on a mirror with a slice of orange and “three lines” of powders to go with it – sugar, coffee beans and cinnamon (I’m sure you get what they are alluding too!) Everything about Oficina Latina is just like that – super creative, fun and thoroughly enjoyable.

Here is some of what we ate and drank: