Spicy Caribbean Chicken, Before Desserts, West 26th St., Between 11th and 12th Ave., New York City
For those of you who are still in the dark about one of the best, small chicken carts in the city, Before Desserts has hit the west side and is on its way to fame and glory, I hope. Tucked away on West 26th St., between 11th and 12th Ave., Before Desserts tends to the needs of those who work in and around the Starrett-Lehigh Building. On arrival, I could tell the cart was relatively new by its pristine condition and lack of street stickers, pictures, and natural New York City street scars.
As one man waited for his order, another Jamaican man kindly took my order from the street and relayed it to the younger cook inside the cart. The menu, although everything sounded appetizing, was skimpy on options; the only three choices were all chicken-based meals (one was spicy caribbean chicken, another grilled chicken, and the third I don’t remember). I ordered the Spicy Caribbean Chicken with rice and salad for $6. The portion was plentiful, and unlike all the other carts and trucks in NYC, Before Desserts’ salad came with dressing and was kept somewhat separate from the rice and meat, so I could enjoy it as an actual salad and not just some lettuce and tomato meant to accompany the rice and chicken. The rice was good, nothing special, but the chicken was AMAZING. After I took my first bite of chicken I knew right away Before Desserts provided some of the best chicken any food cart or truck had to offer in New York City. The chicken, cut into little bites, was crispy on the outside, almost as if it were fried chicken, but was juicy and tender on the inside, reassuring that the chicken wasn’t too dry or crispy. The spices used, even though I couldn’t tell you what they were, were delicious and not too spicy. I was able to get a mouthful of flavor and spice without being punished by the hot sauce or spices. For those of you who read my review on Veronica’s Kitchen or who have eaten Veronica’s Kitchen before, the chicken flavor could be compared to Veronica’s Jerk Chicken, only difference is the chicken was a little dryer (not a complaint) and crispier.
If only Before Desserts wasn’t hidden all the way on the edge of the west side. But, if you’re around the west side looking for a quick meal, I definitely recommend Before Desserts, amazing food.
