June 27, 2009 5:43 pm

Southwest Porch in Bryant Park: Great Al Fresco Happy Hour Spot (That Redefines "Airline" Food)

Friday, June 19th was not only a beautiful day but also a happy beginning for the new Southwest Porch at Bryant Park. To promote Southwest's new service in and out of LaGuardia Airport (beginning June 28th), the country's largest domestic airline and 'wichcraft opened a lounge and al fresco eatery for New Yorkers and tourists alike to enjoy tasty bites and drinks in the middle of a beloved Midtown park. I went for lunch on opening day to take part in the festivities and scope out the new outdoor digs.

The sandwiches were inspired by the great cities Southwest serves from NYC, menu choices include Meatball Parm (NYC), Bratwurst (Chicago), and Soft Shell Crab (Baltimore) among others. A lover of all types of fried seafood, I opted for the Soft Shell Crab with Watercress and Lemon Tartar Sauce. It was satisfying and well cooked (not over or under done) but the small portion size left me wanting more. I craved bigger seafood and citrus flavors than this sandwich offered. My friend offered me a bite of his Southwestern Pork with Chilies, Avocado and Creamy Pickled Onions. It had just the right balance between mouth-watering meat, creamy avocado and a tart pickled onion punch, showing us that chef Sisha Ortuzar has managed to maintain premium quality as the 'wichcraft empire grows. Since quality cuisine and service go hand in hand it was not a surprise that partner Jeffrey Zurofsky was buzzing around the premises to make sure everything was going smoothly.

Next time, I'll be back for a wet lunch where I can indulge in a specially brewed beer or specialty summer cocktail. Or at least I'll order the cookie plate and take some sweet treats for the road.

—Divya Gugnani

Southwest Porch at Bryant Park's Southwest Corner
(Bryant Park is situated behind the New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets & Fifth and Sixth Avenues)
Open Mondays through Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. through mid September

— Written by Divya Gugnani

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