New York City is a magnificent tapestry of cultures, each neighborhood echoing with its unique heritage and culinary delights. Among these, the tantalizing allure of ‘Pica Pollo’—the Dominican staple of fried chicken—stands out as an enticing promise of comfort and flavor. This dish, with its captivating aroma and crispy exterior, transports diners to the vibrant streets of the Dominican Republic. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey through ten locales in New York where you can savor this delectable dish, embracing the rich culinary landscape that the city has to offer.
1. Pollo Merengue
Address: 1601 St. Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10040
Contact: (212) 926-8484
Website: pollomerengue.com
Nestled in the heart of Washington Heights, Pollo Merengue beckons you with its vibrant exterior and robust menu. Renowned for their marinated fried chicken, each bite is infused with a medley of spices that honors traditional Dominican Cooking. Accompany your entree with a refreshing order of tostones that provide a perfect balance to the meal.
2. La Casa del Pollo
Address: 3001 W 29th St, New York, NY 11105
Contact: (718) 626-0605
Website: lacasadelpollo.com
Venture into Astoria’s charm at La Casa del Pollo, where the essence of home-cooked meals resonates in every corner. This establishment prides itself on its secret marinade that yields an exquisitely crunchy coating, each piece of chicken offering a buttery tenderness beneath. A side of their homemade dipping sauce makes for a delightful accompaniment and an irresistible invitation to return.
3. El Malecon
Address: 4141 Broadway, New York, NY 10033
Contact: (212) 781-3535
Website: elmaleconnyc.com
At El Malecon, the heart of the Dominican culinary experience is palpable. Their fried chicken—golden and beautifully seasoned—has drawn crowds for over twenty years. Pair it with their notable rice and beans, and witness the harmony that flourishes from such a classic combination. Not only does the food impress, but the lively atmosphere embodies the Dominican spirit.
4. La Gran Uruguaya
Address: 845 E 187th St, Bronx, NY 10458
Contact: (718) 563-3535
Website: lagranuruguaya.com
While primarily celebrated for its Uruguayan fare, La Gran Uruguaya expertly melds influences, offering sublime Pica Pollo as a highlight of their menu. With a charismatic chef at the helm, every piece is lovingly cooked to achieve the coveted duality of crunchy skin and succulent meat. A visit here promises a delightful exploration of culinary fusion.
5. Mangu Dominican Grill
Address: 1050 St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10032
Contact: (646) 513-8703
Website: mangugrill.com
Mangu Dominican Grill captures the spirit of the Dominican Republic through each seductive plate. Their Pica Pollo exudes a flavor profile enriched by citrusy notes and garlic, while the inviting interior creates a welcoming respite from the bustle outside. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in their specialty sauces, crafting an unforgettable dining experience.
6. La Bandera
Address: 24 W 183rd St, Bronx, NY 10453
Contact: (718) 295-4307
Website: labanderar.com
La Bandera embraces the essence of Dominican culture and cuisine with unrestrained enthusiasm. The crispy Pica Pollo here is a veritable feast for the senses, boasting a blend of herbs that dance harmoniously together. Complement your chicken with flavorful sides of avocado salad or fried plantains, making it an enriching culinary adventure.
7. Los Amigos
Address: 3530 E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10465
Contact: (718) 823-0100
Website: losamigosbronx.com
As you step into Los Amigos, the aroma of sizzling fried chicken embraces you, evoking a comforting nostalgia. Their take on Pica Pollo is liberally seasoned and consistently praised for its remarkable crunchiness. The casual, upbeat atmosphere echoes the jovial spirit of the neighborhood, making each experience both delicious and memorable.
8. Castillo de Jagua
Address: 339 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454
Contact: (718) 292-9320
Website: castillodejagua.com
Castillo de Jagua is a pinnacle of Dominican dining, where every dish tells a story. Their Pica Pollo is esteemed for its zestiness, served with a side of refreshing green salad. The inviting decor enhances your experience, enveloping you in the rich traditions that this restaurant embodies while offering a familial warmth that is simply unmatched.
9. Picanteria Pica Pollo
Address: 867 Bruckner Blvd, Bronx, NY 10459
Contact: (718) 992-2020
Website: picantes.com
Experience the best of both worlds at Picanteria Pica Pollo, where diverse flavors converge. Their fried chicken is renowned for its innovative seasoning and crunch that captures the hearts of food enthusiasts far and wide. Alongside the Pica Pollo, their colorful assortment of traditional Dominican sides creates an expressive palette of flavors worth exploring.
10. El Pollo Inka
Address: 704 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033
Contact: (646) 360-1368
Website: elpollonka.com
Rounding off our list is El Pollo Inka, a favorite among locals for its tender Pica Pollo that showcases a delightful interplay of spices. The restaurant’s pastel decor and friendly service make the experience all the more delightful. Try the chicken with a side of their luscious green sauce for an invigorating burst of flavor.
As our gastronomic odyssey concludes, it becomes palpably clear that Pica Pollo in New York is more than just a dish; it is a cultural experience that unites people through food. Each restaurant not only presents an opportunity to indulge in culinary delights but also serves as a reminder of the rich traditions and histories that shape them. So, whether you’re craving your first taste or you’re an aficionado of Dominican cuisine, these establishments are waiting to whisk you away to a vibrant world of flavors.
