El Chivito d'Oro
This no-frills Uruguayan steak and pasta restaurant serves typical dishes from the small coastal nation bordered by other meat-loving neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. El Chivito d'Oro is famous for its parrillada, or mixed grill, consisting of chorizo sausage, skirt steak, short ribs, veal loin, sweetbreads and even blood sausage. While not the ideal spot for a vegetarian, there are surprisingly good meatless options like tortilla española, pasta plates, and spinach pie. The décor is decidedly laid back and casual, with charming historical photos of Uruguayan street scenes on the walls.
El Chivito d'Oro
8402 37th Ave
Queens, NY 11372
(718) 424-0600
chivitodeoro.com
Arepas Café
Arepas, small corn bread sandwiches filled with meat, cheese, and other goodies, are classic Venezuelan street food, and this funky café in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens sure knows how to make them. Venezuelan-born chef Riccardo Romero and his team deliver all the classics as well as some inspired variations, including a chicken arepa with avocado and cilantro mayo. You can also try the scrumptious chicha shakes made from rice-pudding and condensed milk.
Arepas Café
3307 36th Avenue
Queens NY 1106
(718) 937-3835
Inti Raymi
This popular Peruvian restaurant has become a viable Queens institution since it opened its doors in 1976. Here you'll find flawless fresh ceviche served in clam shells, hearty lamb stews, and spicy seafood soups, among other authentic recipes. There are also noodle and fried rice dishes inspired by Peru's many Chinese immigrants. While the menu is missing a few truly authentic dishes (notably cuy or skewered guinea pig), it's about as close as you can get to the Andean peaks and Pacific coasts of Peru without ever leaving New York City.
Inti Raymi
8614 37th Ave
Queens, NY 11372
(718) 424-1938
intiraymirestaurant.com
Article Written By Charlie Higgins
Charlie Higgins is a writer, translator, editor and social-media consultant based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Originally from Connecticut, Higgins holds bachelor's degrees in media studies and music from Oberlin College. He currently works for the financial inclusion and microenterprise news website Microdinero.
