New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and among its vibrant culinary offerings, you’ll find the delightful herb, culantro. Often confused with its cousin cilantro, culantro boasts a more potent flavor, making it a favored ingredient in various cuisines, especially Latin American and Caribbean dishes. If you’re someone who delights in the taste of this herb or is keen to explore it, you’d be intrigued to know about the best places across New York neighborhoods where you can discover fresh and authentic culantro. Below is a curated list showcasing ten establishments that not only offer this aromatic herb but also provide an array of culinary experiences.
1. La Morada
Address: 308 Willis Ave, Bronx, NY 10454
Contact: (718) 993-0022
Website: lamoradany.com
Nestled in the Bronx, La Morada is a local gem amplifying Oaxacan culinary traditions. Diners can expect to find dishes that incorporate the unique zest of culantro, enhancing the flavors of salsas and marinades. Beyond its culinary offerings, La Morada serves as a community hub for cultural and social events, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
2. Casa Adela
Address: 66 Avenue C, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 477-2992
Website: casadena.com
A beloved Puerto Rican eatery in the East Village, Casa Adela is renowned for its homestyle cooking. The restaurant’s rice and beans, infused with culantro, are a crowd favorite. Diners can expect an ambiance that resonates with warmth and hospitality, embodying the familial spirit of Puerto Rican dining.
3. Los Tacos No. 1
Address: 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (646) 495-8560
Website: lostacos1.com
Located near Times Square, Los Tacos No. 1 brings the vibrant street taco culture to the bustling city. Each taco is a canvas, with culantro heightening the flavors of meats and vegetables alike. The informal setting draws a diverse crowd, making it an excellent pitstop for taco aficionados seeking authentic Mexican flavor.
4. El Puente
Address: 224 S 8th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 388-8070
Website: elpuente.com
El Puente offers a slice of Puerto Rican culinary artistry in Williamsburg. This vibrant eatery invites patrons to savor traditional dishes that prominently feature culantro, with seafood and stews taking center stage. The restaurant prides itself on sustainability, sourcing ingredients with care and dedication.
5. Guelaguetza
Address: 1900 E 20th St, Brooklyn, NY 11229
Contact: (718) 372-0179
Website: guelaguetza.com
Bringing the flavors of Oaxaca to Brooklyn, Guelaguetza is celebrated for its mole and tamales, often enhanced with the addition of culantro. The warm, inviting atmosphere complements the meticulously crafted dishes, creating a pleasurable dining experience that hard to forget.
6. Mofongo House
Address: 65-67 Dyckman St, New York, NY 10040
Contact: (212) 544-1640
Website: mofongohouse.com
Mofongo House specializes in traditional Dominican cuisine, with a menu that showcases culantro’s unique flavor profile. Signature mofongo dishes are elevated with sauce blends that incorporate this herb, providing patrons the opportunity to indulge in the essence of island flavors right in Inwood.
7. Cuchifritos La Joya
Address: 70 E 116th St, New York, NY 10029
Contact: (646) 450-8440
Website: N/A
Cuchifritos La Joya serves hearty Puerto Rican fare, including delectable fried foods infused with culantro. Their innovative street food offerings attract a diverse clientele looking to explore bold flavors at affordable prices. The energy of the neighborhood reflects in the lively atmosphere, inviting you to savor every bite.
8. El Santo
Address: 111 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 387-0500
Website: elsantonyc.com
El Santo is a tropical escape in Manhattan’s East Village, serving up contemporary takes on classic Mexican dishes. With culantro making an appearance in various recipes, diners will find fresh variations of enchiladas and tacos. The bar also mixes cocktails infused with fresh herbs, making it a modern oasis.
9. La Fonda Boricua
Address: 1000 Elmhurst Ave, Elmhurst, NY 11373
Contact: (718) 478-2482
Website: lafondaboricua.com
Situated in Elmhurst, La Fonda Boricua serves classic Puerto Rican dishes that incorporate culantro throughout its menu. The bustling atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, and the aroma of homemade food, creating a vibrant cultural experience that encourages communication among local diners.
10. El Cacique
Address: 269 E 181st St, Bronx, NY 10457
Contact: (718) 588-2777
Website: elcaciquebronx.com
A beloved spot in the Bronx, El Cacique specializes in traditional Venezuelan arepas and empanadas, with culantro often incorporated into their zesty fillings. Patrons can enjoy a delightful blend of flavors that transports them straight to the heart of Venezuela.
Whether you’re an aficionado of Latin cuisine or a curious culinary explorer, these ten eateries offer a fascinating dive into the world of culantro. Not only will you encounter various dishes highlighting this robust herb, but you’ll also enjoy the vibrant atmospheres that each restaurant brings to its neighborhood. From the heart of the Bronx to the bustling avenues of Manhattan, the flavors of culantro weave a rich tapestry of culinary tradition that is quintessentially New York. Explore these spots, and may your palate be delighted by this distinctive herb!
