When I first moved from Germany to New York City, the first friends I made here were from Puerto Rico, or at least their parents were. I fell in love with their liveliness and sense of family, and I most definitely loved their food. It was so different from Northern German food, I just couldn’t get enough. I slowly learned how to make it, and to this day, I still incorporate Puerto Rican cooking in my repertoire. My children are half Puerto Rican, and they grew up on eating these fabulous dishes. It has been so ingrained into my little family, I don’t really notice it anymore. But then came Bad Bunny and that whole Super Bowl debacle, and my love for the Puerto Rican culture was revived. What’s a foodie to do? Of course find some great restaurants that will bring their delicious dishes home. I ordered all of it to go, being that there’s usually enough food to feed an army.
Barrio BX
OK, it’s in the Bronx, maybe it’s a little far for some of you, but it is worth a trip, or if you find yourself in the neck of my woods, please do visit Barrio. Everything here is delicious! I ordered Pernil (roasted pork shoulder) with rice and beans, Chicharron (Crispy fried chicken), and Relleno de Papa (beef stuffed potato croquettes). it was unbelievably delicious, and it transported me right back to the good old days.
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Counter & Bodega
I love this place! Counter & Bodega is located on 7th Avenue and 23rd Street, very easily accessible. The restaurant is fun and lively, nice people work here. Here I ordered Pollo Guisado (Stewed Chicken), Alcapurria (ground beef stuffed mashed plantains), and Pasteles (mashed plantains stuffed with pork or chicken). These are served at pretty much every major holiday, and are and absolute must. The food here has great flavor, and great portions.
La Fonda
La Fonda is located in Spanish Harlem, also known as El Barrio. On 106th Street you will find this lovely restaurant, that smells of great cooking the second you walk in. You will find some of the best latin food in this area, including La Fonda, who makes amazing Puerto Rican food. Here I had some more Pernil, Bacalaitos (Cod Fish Corn Fritters), and Empanads filled with ground beef. It all was super delicious, great seasoning. You have to try!
So. Don’t miss out. Have some Puerto Rican food and listen to some salsa. You’ll be glad you did.
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