Whoever said “cellar door” was the most beautiful phrase in the English language clearly never heard the words “fried cheese.” El Sazón in Chinatown layers their Dominican smashburger with a formidable slice of queso blanco, and this delicious thing has gone viral a few times over. But the cheese is more than just an indulgent gimmick, lending a satisfying squeakiness to every bite. In the same way you might have signed up for an objectively garbage class schedule in high school if it meant closer proximity to your crush, we're so into this fried cheese that we'd order any dish that contains it—like the excellent El Sazón R.D. signature sandwich, which we actually like even more than the burger. The traditional Dominican fare here is good too, and there’s a worthy all-day lunch special. Get the garlicky mofongo, and their morir soñando: an unbelievably smooth, liquid creamsicle experience made with Dominican vanilla. There’s almost no indoor seating, but you can take advantage of their outdoor dining structure, or head to Columbus Park around the corner and have yourself a little picnic.
Less