In Midtown, lunch comes with questions. Spend way too much money at the place downstairs? Microwave a Stouffer’s? Head for the cafeteria, that lowest common denominator of international cuisine? Just say no. There are culinary delights to be discovered in storefronts and food courts, from gustatory office mates and blogs like Midtown Lunch. It was from these two sources that I discovered Margon, a nominally Cuban restaurant tucked into a shabby luncheonette in a little stretch of food heaven on 46th. Daily specials—like ox tail, lamb, pot roast, fresh ham and roast pork—come with a mountain of beans and rice, and a few fried plantains on top. Ask for fried red onions and a Presidente beer if you don’t have a meeting later. Then slather your platter with the sweet hot sauce kept in mustard squirters on every table. A garlicky roast chicken is offered daily, along with a tangy octopus salad (platters $7.25-$9.75). Cuban pressed sandwiches ($5.00) with a Dominican touch are the reason for the clog of people standing in the doorway. If all of this isn’t enough, cheap, greasy, somewhat heavenly eggs, potatoes and toast ($3.00) are served every morning, for that quick cholesterol hit to help you deal with overnight emails. You’ll be glad for that walk back to your desk.
136 W. 46th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-354-5013
