New York City is a melting pot of cultures, which profoundly influences its culinary landscape. One of the delightful gems that have made their way into the gastronomic scene is the sopapilla. This traditional dessert, originating from the Hispanic cultures of the American Southwest and Mexico, features a light, puffy pastry often served with honey or syrup. Below is a curated list of ten establishments across various New York neighborhoods where you can indulge in these delectable treats.
1. La ChurrerÃa
Address: 2451 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 712-0255
Website: lachurreria.com
Nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side, La ChurrerÃa offers a unique take on the classic sopapilla. Here, the sopapilla is fried to perfection, resulting in a golden exterior and a fluffy interior. Pair it with dulce de leche for an authentically sweet experience.
2. Casa Oaxaca
Address: 100 Ossining Ave, Hudson, NY 12534
Contact: (518) 822-8220
Website: casaoaxaca.com
Though a bit of a trek from NYC proper, Casa Oaxaca is well worth the journey for its genuinely homemade sopapillas, served with a zesty honey-lime drizzle. You’ll savor each bite while immersing yourself in the vibrant ambiance of this authentic Oaxacan restaurant.
3. La Esquina
Address: 114 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 613-1615
Website: esquinanyc.com
La Esquina merges street food and fine dining, and their sopapillas are no exception. Served with a spicy chocolate sauce, these treats provide a delightful juxtaposition of flavors. Expect a bustling atmosphere filled with energy and excitement, characteristic of this trendy hotspot in Nolita.
4. Dos Toros
Address: 407 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 675-5000
Website: dostoros.com
Known primarily for its burritos, Dos Toros also surprises patrons with their zhuzhed-up sopapillas. They offer a small batch, perfect for a quick sweet escape amidst your savory culinary adventures. Each sopapilla is dusted with sugar and comes drizzled with warm honey.
5. Toloache
Address: 251 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 581-1818
Website: toloachenyc.com
This contemporary Mexican eatery is pivotal in redefining traditional dishes. Their sopapillas are airy bites of goodness, served with an innovative spiced honey. The sophisticated decor and ambiance create an exquisite dining experience—an excellent backdrop for an indulgent dessert.
6. Empellón Taqueria
Address: 230 W 4th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 780-0999
Website: empellon.com
Located in the West Village, Empellón Taqueria is known for its inventive taco selection, but it also serves irresistible sopapillas. Complemented with a rich chocolate sauce, they elevate the experience of this traditional pastry to gourmet status.
7. Nopalito
Address: 463 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 229-1800
Website: nopalito.com
Nopalito specializes in authentic Mexican flavors, and their sopapillas are no exception. Fluffy and lightly toasted, they are served alongside prickly pear syrup, adding a unique twist to your dessert experience. It’s an ideal spot for both families and casual diners.
8. La Noche
Address: 224 E 116th St, New York, NY 10029
Contact: (212) 628-3400
Website: lanoche.com
La Noche, located in East Harlem, offers an inviting atmosphere with flavorful food that speaks to its Dominican roots. Their sopapillas are a must-try, drizzled with sweet honey and dusted with cinnamon, ensuring that every bite feels like a celebratory occasion.
9. Candela
Address: 400 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 223-0542
Website: candelanyc.com
At Candela, you’ll discover sopapillas infused with traditional Mexican flavors, offering a modern twist. Their desserts are available in various flavors, with one noteworthy option being the vanilla bean filling, which tantalizes the palate. Perfect for those looking to share something sweet.
10. Izzy’s Mexican Grill
Address: 245 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 712-2278
Website: izzysgrill.com
Located on the Upper West Side, Izzy’s is famed for its playful take on Mexican dishes. Their sopapillas are served in a casual, laid-back setting, adorned with coconut flakes and chocolate drizzle, making them a hit among the younger crowd as well as families.
In summary, sopapillas are a beloved sweet treat that offers New Yorkers a taste of cultural heritage and a delightful culinary experience. With each corner of the city providing its own unique spin on this traditional pastry, the fascination with sopapillas is not merely in their taste but in the stories and memories they evoke across various neighborhoods.
