In summer it's hard to resist the desire to eat lunch outside and not many places downtown offer it. We found a great spot to people watch and enjoy some sunshine - Ortega's Restaurante & Diner on Ives Street. The small patio is so inviting, surrounded by a picket fence and flowers.
The vast menu features both American and Spanish dishes. However, whenever we go to Ortega's we always ask the owner Melvin what's looking good that day. His recommendations have never let us down.
On this particular afternoon he recommended sliced beef, beans, cole slaw, scallions and avocado wrapped in a homemade flour Guatemalan-style tortilla. It was a huge portion and really delicious. To wash it all down both Alicia and I had unsweetened iced tea, perfect for a summer day.
Half way through our lunch, much to our surprise and appreciation, Melvin brought out two glasses of Horchata for us to sample. I know it's crazy, but we'd never had it before. Wow, great stuff. Cold, creamy but light, with a nice cinnamon flavor. Remember above where I said the tea was perfect for a summer day, scratch that, Horchata is perfect for a hot summer day. We'll be back for more.
As we chatted with Melvin, he mentioned that he's trying to put together an event at the restaurant in September in honor of Guatemalan Independence Day, featuring dancers in traditional dress and a few traditional Guatemalan dishes. Hope the plans come together.
You know, from the first time we visited Ortega's, everyone there, especially Melvin, has been so friendly. It's what makes being a part of downtown so great - connecting with good people and, of course, good food makes it even better.
Ortega's Restaurante and Diner is located at 2B Ives Street and is open Mon through Thurs & Sun from 8am - 1 am, Fri & Sat from 8am - 2am. You can check them out online at http://www.ortegasrestaurantediner.com/ or on Facebook.
Labels: danbury, downtown, restaurants
