I agree the neighborhood is fine, but definitely not exciting or worth spending much time. Santarpio's is quite popular, but personally I think it's over-rated and they seem to relish their 'we're popular so can offer rude service and call it charming' role.
If you stay at the ES and take Uber, consider putting in the corner of Cottage St and Porter St as the address. You will not be charged the $7ish airport fee and you are steps from the entrance of the hotel.