DIRTY TACO AND TEQUILA
A new location, inspired by the taquerías of Los Angeles and Miami liquor stands and garnished with a New York flair, takes Patchogue.
With dozens of tacos to choose from, Dirty Taco and Tequila incorporates Asian influences in the menu, with creations like the Vietnamese shrimp taco ($6.75) and the Asian sloppy Joe, which includes ground beef and pork, ginger, water chestnuts, Korean barbecue glaze, and queso fresco ($5.50). Craving something trendy? Indulge in the mouthwatering birria taco ($6). Its juicy stewed beef and melted cheese comes with a side of marinade for maximum flavor. It’s what foodie-Instagram dreams are made of.
Neon signs, blaring music, exposed brick walls and graffiti complement the food and drinks for an all-around rockstar experience.
32 W. Main St., Patchogue, dirtytacoandtequila.com
THAI SHACK EAST
Nestled in an unassuming parking lot, this hidden gem is serving tasty family recipes.
Thai food, with its vivid colors and flavors, is the perfect complement to the spring season. Spring rolls ($6.50) and curry puffs ($8.95) are a great start. If it’s a rainy day, you’ll find comfort in tom kha gai soup ($6.95), a coconut broth with chicken and veggies. Opt for a classic like pad thai ($12.95) or try a special like Kylie’s fried rice ($16.95), the chef’s daughter’s favorite, with egg, sausage, bacon, onion, broccoli, and tomatoes.
While Thai Shack may not have much seating, grab your grub to go with a refreshing Thai iced tea ($3.95-$4.95) and have a picnic at the nearby beaches.
389 Independence Plaza, Selden, thaishackeast.com
CLAY OVEN
Indian cuisine blooms on the Island this spring as a new branch of this beloved halal eatery expands to Selden.
With the motto “Good food never lies,” Clay Oven serves up quality portions at a generous price. Start off with the popular jalapeño cheese naan ($7). Locals rave about the hearty and robust chicken tikka masala ($14) and the packed but light stuffed eggplant ($14) with ground meat and sautéed veggies. For a quick meal try the chicken kati roll ($10), saucy chicken hugged in warm and doughy flatbread.
Wash it all down with a creamy lassi ($5), a mango-, coconut- or mint-flavored drink, and bask in the sunny days ahead.
1245 Middle Country Rd., Selden, facebook.com/ClayOvenHalal
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