Located on a sleepy corner of Stanton Street in the now hip ‘hood known as the Lower East Side, Azul Bistro is a seductive corner spot with raw wood accents, and low lighting. Serving South American fare to the soft rhythm of tango music, Azul makes a nice substitute for a trip to Buenos Aires. While the menu’s focus is Argentina, you’ll also find Latin American dishes like ceviche and empanadas, but grilled meats are a specialty, like the lamb and the juicy steak dotted with chimichurri sauce (think garlicky pesto). The watermelon sangria should get the night going on the right foot, no matter what you order.

Azul Bistro, 152 Stanton St., at Suffolk, 212-602-2004.

REPRINTED FROM THE MOBIL TRAVEL GUIDE

Andrea Strong