The 7 Best Puerto Rican Restaurants In New York

From traditional Puerto Rican empanadas and tostones to the ever-classic national dish of arroz con gandules, the best Puerto Rican restaurants in New York showcase all of the flavourful favourites you’d expect to see wandering the streets of San Juan.

New York has a vibrant and proud Latin community, so expect to find some amazing food here. If you’re not drooling yet, then you’re about to…

Best Puerto Rican Restaurants In New York

1. Casa Adela

Casa Adela has been a Puerto Rican hotspot on Avenue C since 1976, and is still as great as ever. Recommended dishes include juicy rotisserie chicken, red beans simmered to a soft creaminess, sancocho (sweetly tinged oxtail stew), pernil (sliced, rosy pork) and mofongo, mashed plantains with garlic and pork and topped with cracklings.

It’s super casual, cash only and BYOB.

2. La Fonda

Yet another long serving Puerto Rican food joint, La Fonda opened its doors in 1996. It’s become famous both locally and beyond, serving up some of the most authentic Puerto Rican eats north of San Juan, like octopus salad, seafood mofongo and slow-roasted pernil. Don’t miss out on the famous arroz con pollo (rice with chicken).

3. The Freakin Rican

When it comes to classic Puerto Rican fare with a lively atmosphere and stellar service, The Freakin Rican is second to none. The Freakin Rican is dedicated to creative and wholesome Caribbean food from classic bites to innovative picks all around. Load up on their infamous crispy wings with guava and chow down on their insane bistec encebollado that will leave you in awe. Don’t forget dessert, either!

4. Sofrito

Sofrito is a fun spot for food and drink, where you’ll experience proper Latino fare. Dig into empanadas or a Puerto Rican-style gumbo, followed by a plate of arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), ropa vieja (shredded beef) or a heaping paella. Sofrito also has live Latin music six days a week, with DJs spinning on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

5. Lechonera La Pirana

This legendary food trailer in the South Bronx is only open on Saturdays and Sundays, but it’s worth making time for. The lechon asado, or roast pork, here, is about as close to Puerto Rico as you can get in New York. Owner-chef Angel Jimenez is the master at work, serving up the delicious slow-roasted pork, cut by machete, and served with peas and mojito sauce.

6. El Nuevo Bohio

You can’t have a list of the best Puerto Rican Restaurants in New York and not include El Nuevo Bohio in the Bronx. It’s a classic for good reason. The pulled pork here is the main attraction and is a must-order. It’s made fresh daily and is seriously juicy and tender. You’ll struggle to find any better in the city.

7. Made in Puerto Rico

While ranking the best Puerto Rican restaurant in New York is pretty difficult, Made in Puerto Rico is a highlight. They’re famous for blending modern Latin cuisine with traditional spices in a way that truly highlights all of Puerto Rico’s amazing flavours. Savour all of the traditional Puerto Rican dishes you love along with their famous signature dishes and cocktails.