El Bohio
2746 N. 5th Street
(215) 425-5991
Why? There's a hot table up front, so you can see the tasty tapas before you order. Otherwise, you might never try the morcilla (blood sausage).
Freddy & Tony's
201 W. Allegheny Avenue
(215) 634-3889
Why? Open daily, 9 a.m. to late night, this Puerto Rican destination is best known for its Mofongo (ball of crushed plantain with crisp pork skin served in gravy). Another plus: the menu is in English.
La Tierra Colombiana
4535-37 N. 5th Street
(215) 324-6086
Why? The menu is half Colombian and half Cuban, with everything from a tamarind Cuban milk shake to octopus salad. Finish the night with dancing upstairs.
