El Rincon Criollo
At El Rincon Criollo, tucked away in Queens' Flushing neighborhood, you won't find trendy décor, but you will find authentic Cuban food in a fun, homey atmosphere. Visitors might want to start out with a steaming bowl of black bean soup, then move on to traditional entrees like vaca frita (shredded beef) or ropa vieja (shredded flank steak in tomato sauce). For sides, try the fried sweet plantains or yuca relleno. For dessert, the traditional flan is a popular choice.
El Rincon Criollo
4009 Junction Blvd.
Flushing, NY 11368
(718) 639-8158
El Sitio
Friendly service and authentic Cuban food are the big draws to this simply decorated restaurant situated in the Woodside neighborhood of Queens. The prices at this lively local eatery are reasonable, with entrees priced at around $12, but costs are lower if you sit at the bar rather than at a table. Try favorites like the masterfully made Cuban sandwich, a house specialty, the arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) or lechon asado (roast pork), or be adventurous with the rice and squid. Relax after your meal with a smooth café con leche and your choice of four different types of flan.
El Sitio
6828 Roosevelt Ave.
Woodside, NY 11377
(718) 424-2369
Mojitos
Also located in Woodside, Mojitos serves up tasty Cuban dishes daily. While there are a variety of delicious items on the menu, the hearty pernil (roast pork) is especially good, as are the chuletas (marinated pork chops). Bread and a salad are included with entrée orders. For dessert try the cake called "pastel de tres leches." This restaurant's name should tip you off that their mojitos are out of the ordinary. In addition to the standard mojito, this restaurant serves unusual flavors like coconut and mango. In fine weather, guests can enjoy the outdoor garden. Live Cuban music is played each Friday and Saturday night.
Mojitos
52-20 Roosevelt Ave.
Woodside, NY 11377
(718) 672-3158
