THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Joy America Cafe

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Joy America Cafe Restaurant Review:

The ups and downs of Spike and Charlie Gjerde's skyrocketing, then diminishing empire, have had an effect on Joy America Café. This comely venue atop the National Visionary Arts Museum has seen some rocky times, culinarily speaking. But with some of the team's other establishments now closed (Atlantic, Jr. and the bakery), things seem to be running on a more even keel. The menu has retained its Latin American and Caribbean bent, rounding up sophisticated versions of papusas, ceviche, tamales and more. The menu also now includes a number of small plates to enjoy with cocktails. The chalupas --- mesquite-grilled flatbreads --- are invariably good. We especially love the carne asada version, topped with charred peppers and onions and a spicy tomato sauce. Among dinner entrees, the Cuban pork roast and achiote-roasted chicken with green chile mashed potato cake bring the kind of depth and richness of flavor we always hope for when dining at a Gjerde establishment. Go when there's a full moon and you'll have the added pleasure of watching that glowing orb rise over the mighty Patapsco River.