On an unassuming corner in bustling Park Slope, Brooklyn – surrounded on one side by harried hoards of hipsters, and on another, by suave and sophisticated cultural elite – lies a hidden and dimly lit secret of succulent meats, mouthwatering spices and addictive aromas.

Located on 7th avenue and Garfield Place is a clandestine little eatery that even the street’s furry, animated namesake could not fathom resisting.

“Bring on the enchiladas and crisp, fluffy tacos,” he would drawl in his signature, nasal timbre, “because Jon’s lasagna is about to take a backseat.” Besides, a bottomless stomach is by no means required to fall in love with Rancho Alegre, a tiny hamlet of a restaurant, suspiciously hidden on the second floor.

Its direct translation to English is “happy farm” and it certainly induces more than its fair share of ecstasy, at least of the yummy variety. In fact, its warm, flaky and undoubtedly heavenly quesadillas are the very essence of “umami,” a Japanese term for a dish that is especially savory and satisfying.

If you’re wondering how the jargon of Japanese cuisine invaded the flavors of Mexican, then simply remember that this is New York City. If anything, we are the eternal template for the “melting pot.”

Its seating is decidedly limited, in regrettable consistency with its elusive allure. A small, lone candle rests atop each white-clad table, casting a spell of dim romanticism nearly impossible to resist. It weaves and dances and tenaciously draws its occupants into fluid conversation.

But, getting back to the savory sauces and meaty morsels – after all, the true reason to visit any eating establishment of excellence remains eternally one: food.

And food it has, as Rancho Alegre offers a healthy variety of appetizers, ranging from the aforementioned quesadillas to less traditional faire along the lines of gambas ajilo. Salad options are also available for the health-conscious, as are soups, combination platters and vegetarian selections.

The staples are offered as well: there are full enchilada and fajita sections, as well as seafood.

This finally tapers down to the good stuff: the scrumptious Rancho Specialties. Consisting primarily of chicken and pork dishes, its helpings come extra hot and with a generous portion of rice and beans. The chuletas rancheras – pork chops cooked in a mild red sauce with onions and peppers – are especially divine. At once firm and tender, the admittedly impressive pork protein is easily overshadowed by its accompanied sauce. Sizzling and robust, it contains just the right variety of spice to attract the skeptic, though heat-lovers are advised to look elsewhere for their requisite dose of fire.

Sides are offered, as well as “Something Different” for those that seek that unbeaten path of provisions, with options like the super burrito, paella and steak onions.

Of course, any evening out – regardless of however excellent the cuisine may be – can easily be ruined with terrible service. Luckily, Ranche Alegre suffers no such qualms, as its courteous and efficient staff keeps the glasses filled and the requests eagerly answered.

So grab a glass of sangria, some fantastic company and simply exist in a paradoxically delicious moment of quiet contemplation and vivid conversation.

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