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Somewhere between an Argentine café and an Italian red-sauce joint, Nina’s has drawn a loyal following since 2004, with generous portions of fresh food at reasonable prices. Latin families and young professionals bump shoulders in the comfortably weathered, cozy 24-seat space adorned with family photos. Appetizers tend toward South America, mains to Italy. Croquetas de Papas are fried knobs of mashed potatoes flavored with cheese and garlic; their light, creamy texture is outright addictive when paired with a glass of Malbec wine. Also delicious, the flaky empanadas come packed with a sweet mix of shredded beef and onions. Main courses—Italian standards such as spaghetti marinara and veal parmigiana—are well-executed, if uninventive. Much better are any of the eighteen house pizzas made with homemade sauce and other quality ingredients. A bit thicker than a traditional New York pie, Nina’s offers salty winners such as anchovy and roasted peppers, or lighter, sauceless options such as sautéed onions and olives on a chewy-crispy crust. After dinner, you can linger over a pewter goblet of yerba mate tea or flip through one of the Argentine cookbooks from a shelf in the corner–the staff wouldn’t dream of hustling you out. — Benjamin Kneen

The wine list, which showcases Argentine producers, is pleasantly affordable, with most options under $30.

Empanadas, $5.50; croquetas de papas, $5.95; “Fugazy” pizza, $11.95

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