Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off this week, which means only one thing: an opportunity to toast our way through Latin America and celebrate the wealth, depth, and variety of our cultures. Seven countries in Central and South America celebrate their independence this month, making it a good time to quench your thirst with some experimental libations, as well as classic beverages from Latin America served at some of our favorite spots around the city. So go ahead and imbibe, reconnect with your heritage, and make your country proud.
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This eclectic Nolita hot-spot prides itself in its inventive Pan American tapas menu that takes you on a journey of small bites from Central America (Tamales) to the Patagonia (Provoleta). However, where it really stands out is in the cocktail department, shaking it up behind the bar with unusual creations like Cilantro Avocado Margaritas, Blackberry Caipirinhas, and Kumquat Mojitos.
24 Prince Street
New York, NY 10012
(646) 381-2555
This family-run restaurant focused on organic Latin fare sets up shop at the Smorgasburg market in Williamsburg every Saturday. While the weather permits, it will serve its signature smoothies like the Lucha Libre, with Mexican chocolate ground in-house and prepared the way grandma used to make it. As the temperatura drops, its comforting atoles and Mexican hot chocolate will provide a welcome refuge in the outdoor market.
1308 Avenue H
Midwood, Brooklyn
(347) 295-1191
and
Saturdays at the Smorgasburg, Williamsburg Waterfront
A brilliant concept embodies this bright Latin diner that offers classic Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja, Yucca Rellena, and Fritas, and unique combinations of comfort favorites like a Latin mac & cheese (with chicharron!) and Korean Tacos (with rice & beans, of course). There are milkshakes with flavors like Dulce de Leche, Avocado, and Condensed milk, and for a retro touch, ice cream floats concocted with passion fruit and tamarind sodas.
207 West 14th Street
New York, NY 10011
(212) 858-5001
At this cozy restaurant in Chelsea, you’ll find Venezuelan home-cooking at its best, with a wide selection of arepas and stick to your ribs dishes like Asado Negro, Roasted Pernil and Chivo en Coco. Wash it all down with traditional Venezuelan drinks like a local limeade Papelón con Limón, and sweet and creamy milkshakes: rice-based Chicha or coconut Cocada.
228 West 18th Street
Chelsea, NY 10011
(212) 206-8930
This lively, rustic restaurant in the West Village serves Mexican dishes with flavors so on cue that you’ll forget you’re in NYC. The botanas or small plates are fresh and generously portioned, the salads, ceviches and platos fuertes don’t skimp on any ingredient. To accompany your feast there are tequilas for every taste, chelas (beers) and chupes (Mexican for drinks). Creative tequila cocktails marry it to guava and spice, to pineapple and chile piquin.
100 7th Ave South
New York, NY 10014
Tel. 212.647.0830