AC On Tap
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.
The stretch of Third Avenue between roughly 14th and 37th Streets is lined with bars, but when the temperature rises, the darkest, coolest place to be is McCormack’s (365 Third Avenue, between E. 26th and 26th Streets, 212-683-0911). The reason is simple: It’s got the best air-conditioning in the neighborhood. McCormack’s has two sets of usually closed doors and a set of windows that do not open, so the heat stays out and the cool air stays in. “We like to keep things very cool,” manager Michael Traynor said.
By good fortune, McCormack’s is across the street from La Posada, a tiny Mexican restaurant (364 Third Avenue, 212-213-4379). Everything here is perfectly simple and flavorful – and made without lard, preservatives, or MSG. The grilled chicken soft tacos are winners, but the spicy chorizo-sausage taco is a remarkably rich, savory treat. The house-made salsa is seasoned with fresh cilantro. You’ll hear more Spanish than English here, but the atmosphere is reliably welcoming.
