You are at your wit’s end with hunger and the thought of ordering from the same local takeout can grow tiresome.
Let’s face it: we all need to spice it up from time to time, so why not explore some of the tastiest and most popular dishes in the Latin American cuisine?
Queens is the most ethnically diverse places in New York City, where Latin food means serious business, and the results are exciting and dynamic every time.
The Latin American cuisine refers to the unique cooking styles and typical foods that resonate in many of the countries and cultures in Latin America.
Experience the rich, exotic and flavorful concoctions with every bite in Queens, with plates from Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Cuba and much more.
1. Bocaito Café & Wine (81-15 Northern Blvd)
oscarnyc Una picada para empezar ... #BocaitoNY viendo el Classico .. #HalaMadrid ESO SI FUE GOL !!!
First things first, in order to fully emerge yourself in the Bocaito experience you must show up with an appetite. That’s right, enter into latin paradise because when it comes to Bocaito’s food, the possibilities are truly endless.
At this Latin fusion eatery, you can savor exquisite and mouthwatering dishes like sizzling steaks or seafood. Enjoy delicacies cooked to perfection such as the South American seafood chowder, or pork chops drizzled in whiskey applesauce served with sweet potato puree.
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We’d also recommend the arepa con ropa vieja or the chaufa which is Peruvian fried rice. Overall, this hidden gem in Jackson Heights is sure to deliver and satisfy your cravings each and every time.
2. Casa Enrique (5-48 48th Avenue)
A local favorite in Long Island City is Casa Enrique. This Michelin-starred venue offers a variety of exceptional Mexican dishes, but is it worth a Michelin star? You bet it is. Plus, it’s a perfect place for a romantic date, brunch or dinner.
This place might be small, but it will fulfill your hunger needs. Indulge in bold flavor combinations, as the fresh aroma of roasted meats, spices and limes engulf your senses. For starters, try their fresh guacamole with a side of totopos.
Then make your way into tasting delectable and traditional Mexican platters like the Mole de Piaxtla, a well-known dish from Puebla, or the Mexican shrimp cocktail along with chunks of avocado, diced tomatoes, chile and cilantro.
Lastly, for dessert, don’t forget to dig in, the Mexican pot de creme, a Mexican chocolate custard with homemade whipped cream and warm cinnamon topped with Maria cookies is truly amazing!
3. El Guachito (94-60 Corona Avenue)
Offering one of the best skirt steaks in Queens is El Guachito. This Argentinian restaurant and butcher shop serves the finest and juiciest cuts of Argentinian meat and imported goods.
Revel in some freshly baked warm bread with thinly sliced salami folded inside provolone cheese, dressed with olive oil, oregano, tomato and chili on the house. Then try la parrillada completa or the mixed grill which includes an array of sausages, short ribs, and skirt steaks.
Explore other stellar plates like the flap steak, veal stew, and much more. Definitely stay for dessert to try the churros with the rich and sweet taste of dulce de leche. In general, for an affordable and authentic Argentinian dining experience make your way to El Guachito.
4. La Cabana (10710 70th Road)
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No need to fly to Miami folks...one of the most delicious Cuban meals awaits at La Cabana in Forest Hills. If you are in search of good food and a lively vibe then look no further.
At La Cabana, you will be welcome to indulge in classic Cuban dishes like the tostones rellenos which are fried green plantains filled with chicken sofrito, shrimp criollo, ropa vieja or picadillo.
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You can also try the arroz con pollo which is chicken sautéed in sofrito with chorizo and spanish olives simmered in a caldera of saffron rice.
If you desire rich ingredients of the Caribbean, excellent frosty margaritas, and rocket fuel mojitos, La Cabana will surely have you coming back for more.
5. Tierras Colombianas ll (3301 Broadway)
This place may ring a bell to Queens locals or Colombian food lovers, and that’s because their main restaurant was located in Jackson Heights years ago. Tierras Colombianas ll is just as great as its first establishment, serving typical Colombian plates like the Bandeja Campesina and the Bandeja Paisa.
The portions here are incredibly huge and filling. Each of their plates will make you feel like it was meant for two people. Which hey, it’s a pretty sweet deal when you are in the level of Snickers hungry.
Speaking of sweets, make sure to try their Colombian-style tres leches, flan, or the delicious tiramisu cake, which are ridiculously delicious.
,6. De Mole (4220 30th Avenue)
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De Mole is a Mexican restaurant situated in the heart of Astoria. If you are a fan of excellent food, quality ingredients and flavor, then add De Mole to your bucket list.
Try their vibrant and tasty platters such as the De Mole Nachos which include corn chips, oozing cheese, chorizo, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo and sour cream.
We’d also recommend the Grilled Tilapia Filet with achiote salad served over baby lettuce with peppers, grilled zucchini, orange, avocado, onion, fresh mint and achiote dressing.
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In addition, they also have vegetarian options including the seitan burrito and fajitas. You may also enjoy traditional Mexican beverages and heavenly desserts like the flan de coco or the pastel de tres leches.
Bonus points for their complimentary nachos and their guacamole which is always so fresh and appetizing.
7. Villa Brazil Café Grill (43-16 34th Avenue)
yanyahgotitmade I still keep getting the question regarding my diet so here's a picture Im posting of the meal I had today at the local Brazilian cafe/grill 🇧🇷🍴 It isn't anything fancy but the reason this is a good picture is because it shows the proportions of my nutritional intake between protein, fats, carbs and vegetables. Every meal I have is always focused around my protein. Basically, if it don't have any protein - I won't eat it! After trying a lot of different type dietary approaches I have also came to the conclusion that a low carb diet is what suits me the best.
For an authentic taste of Brazil at an unbeatable price is Villa Brazil Café Grill. Taste a variety of spices and flavor with four buffet styles to choose from, including grilled meats and BBQ, sandwiches, salads, and freshly baked pastries.
Explore, eat, taste and drink as your meal is charged by the pound. The lowest you will probably pay is $8, which in our books sounds like the ultimate feast for all-you-can-eat.
Also, stick around for their tasty desserts. The passion fruit cheesecake is definitely one of our many favorites. Plus, all the items on the buffet are fresh and varied each day, so if you’re looking for something different Villa Brazil is the spot.
8. La Coya (98-35 Metropolitan Avenue)
jen_squared Grilled skirt steak over pesto pasta 😍 new peruvian spot #LaCoya #MetropolitanAve #Dinner #Foodporn #JenJenEatsGood 070815 👍👍
In Peru, La Coya signifies “Queen.” Representing strong women and evoking a sense of home, La Coya Restaurant delivers the divine goodness of Peru with a modern twist.
You’ll be delighted with their extensive menu of traditional and signature dishes, featuring the Tallatin Chifa, Ceviche de Camarones, or the popular La Coya Combo with roasted chicken, salchipapas, rice, beans, fried plantains, and salad.
La Coya also boasts a full Pisco bar, try their refreshing Peruvian cocktails for $10 with passion fruit, strawberry or melon. You may also enjoy a Pisco Mojito, $3 beers, or choose from premium imports or traditional Peruvian beers.
9. 5 Burro Cafe ( 72-05 Austin Street)
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When in Queens...go to 5 Burro Cafe. This lively local restaurant with a funk setting in Forest Hills offers some of the best frozen margaritas and delicious Mexican food.
If you are looking for a casual place with great energy, plus amazing food and drinks, then let us tell you 5 Burro Cafe is the place to be.
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A quick warning: it’s generally always busy, meaning you’ll have to wait before you’ll get seated, but, uh, hello? "Never empty" is yet another sign of why 5 Burro Cafe is so awesome. The wait is certainly worth it.
Their dishes are prepared with the freshest ingredients. Choose from tamales, fajitas, tacos and enchiladas covered in mole sauce. Many of their platters come with rice, beans, guacamole, sour cream, diced tomatoes and onions. They also have vegan options such as the veggie fajitas and tacos.
10. La Esquina Criolla (9467 Corona Avenue)
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Premium cuts of meat are grilled to perfection at La Esquina Criolla. Have complementary sliced chorizo and toasted bread with chimichurri sauce while you wait.
This restaurant and deli features specialized Argentinian dishes. Similar to El Guachito, La Esquina Criolla also has imported Argentinian products and a butcher shop. Select your own meats while their cooked to perfection.
Overall, the portions here are generous so prepare to eat until you pass out. For example, their Parrillada Completa here includes, skirt steak, short rib, sweetbread, tripe, kidney, black and Argentinian sausage.Check out 7 Best Breakfast Foods from NYC's Top Diners.
[Feature Image Courtesy Instagram]