Nana’s Frito Pie at Bar Amá, $13
Bar Ama’s nod to authentic Tex-Mex cuisine can get you into some serious trouble. The need-for-stretchy-pants kind of trouble. Go in focused, because you will want to order one of everything, and by no means will you skip the Frito Pie. Unlike the sloppy chili in a chip bag variety we’ve tried, this version is made with lengua (yes, that lengua) and served in a heaping cast-iron skillet. It’s handsome, it’s hearty, and you will feel no shame for scraping up every last bit.
Bar Ama, 118 West 4th Street (between Main Street and Spring Street); 213-687-8002.

Photo: Courtesy of Dylan + Jeni