Midtown Lunch

If you are a lucky duck (like me), then you have a friend with a place in Atlantic City. Free beach time is kind of the best. I recently spent some much needed post-Bar recovery time there. It is a little tricky to find really good and affordable eats in the area. I am not willing to drop my Benjamin’s at a P.F. Changs, not gonna happen. But tucked away in the corners, are some spots for a meal I can get behind- like the Caribbean/South American food from Mango Tropical.

The small spot right on Ventnor Ave has a few tables to sit at, but take out is a good call- empanadas on the beach? Why not? 2 of the fried, juicy beef version of them  them cost $3.

I love sancocho so much that I couldn’t care less about how inappropriate a hearty stew is for summer, beach side eating.  It was the daily special when I stopped at Mango Tropical. It came full of the good stuff; potato, yucca, carrot, beef all in a thick, authentic broth.

A platter of chicken and rice was our least favorite, the chicken was unfortunately dry. But with so many other menu options, it would be easy to avoid. Maybe some garlic fish or roast pork mofongo for next time.

THE + (What somebody who likes this place would say)

• Cheap homecooking in Atlantic City
• Great empanadas

THE – (What somebody who doesn’t like this place would say)

• Roast chicken is a little guy

Mango Tropical, 4008 Ventnor Ave, Atlantic City, 609 350 7710