I stopped by the new innovative Mexican joint Black Ant last week and had some delectable bites. Not only is the place named Black Ant, they actually do serve black ants..I tried some sitting in a bowl at the bar, along with grasshopper..It was interesting..The dishes at Black Ant though, are different than you'll encounter at most spots in NYC. Intriguing.

But besides some innovative and interesting fare, during my culinary adventures I come across unique individuals that take a restaurant to another level. That make a restaurant special. There is the charismatic Francesco at Antica Pesa in Williamsburg, Josh Capon at Lure Fishbar, the list goes on. Black Ant has the bartender Cesar. I never met a bartender so enthusiastic and energetic about his drinks and his restaurant. If you can, sit by Cesar and let him guide your imbibing. I told him I enjoy spicy drinks, he created a beautiful pineapple, cucumber, jalapeño margarita for me, of course it was lined with black ant salt.

Yes, they actually have black ants and grasshopper at the bar! :P

Appetizers are totally tasty at Black Ant. A shrimp taco came crunchy accompanied by tabichi aioli, and avocado micro carrot salad. A chia seed tostada came with braised venison and orange habanero salsa. It was delicious. A crunchy tortilla came with sauteed grasshoppers and queso de rancho, and chile de agua salsa..Had great flavor.

Black sea bass comes with recado negro, and mezcal mushroom rice. It looks fantastic, is unique, and great. Crispy roast duck dumplings come with mole negro and cotija cheese. They are fabulous and a must order.

Short rib comes with chichilo negro, chochoyotes, recaudo, and amaranth salad. It is delightful.

Desserts at Black Ant cannot be skipped. Why? Because some of the best desserts in NYC are being served here. Pastry Chef Cesar Moreno is a #genius. You can order the classic churros, but what really blew my mind is their gluten-free Corn Textures dessert: Yellow Corn Cake, Popcorn Brulee, & Corn Brittle Ice Cream. #unbelievable #amazing #Magical.

Innovative. Unique. Magical. Black Ant is where it's at.

Black Ant

60 2nd Avenue (bet. 3rd and 4th)

New York, NY 10003

212-598-0300

www.blackantnyc.com