BOKAGUÁ

- 3541 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463

For New Yorkers seeking a truly unique and vibrant dining experience outside of Manhattan, look no further than BOKAGUÁ. Nestled in the beautiful Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx, this innovative restaurant has become a must-visit destination for food lovers across the city. BOKAGUÁ offers a sophisticated, yet cozy, escape, perfectly capturing a moody, tropical speakeasy vibe that transports guests far from the concrete jungle.

BOKAGUÁ is not just another restaurant; it is a culinary adventure. The name itself is derived from Spanish words for "mouth" and "water," an apt description for its "mouth-watering" fusion concept. The kitchen artfully and creatively blends the robust, comforting flavors of Dominican cuisine with the delicate and intricate techniques of Asian cooking. This unique pairing results in dishes that are both familiar and excitingly new, from mofongo presented in novel ways to classic Dominican ingredients infused with Asian spices and flair. The restaurant is a celebrated addition to the Bronx dining scene, bringing a fresh, hip, and modern ambiance that local residents, including the owner, felt the neighborhood was missing.

The atmosphere at BOKAGUÁ is a significant part of the experience. It has been described by local patrons as having a "cool and hip" feel, reminiscent of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. The decor features warm lighting, wood furniture, brown leather bar seats, and cascading artificial vines and birdcage-looking light fixtures overhead, creating the feeling of dining in an intimate, sophisticated treehouse. This tropical, nature-connected aesthetic provides a beautiful backdrop for any occasion, whether it’s a casual night out, a special date, or a gathering with friends.

Location and Accessibility

BOKAGUÁ is conveniently located in the thriving Riverdale area of the Bronx, making it easily accessible for residents across New York City and Westchester County.

The full address is:

3541 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463, USA

For guests driving to the restaurant, BOKAGUÁ offers a major convenience for NYC—the availability of both free and paid street parking nearby. The establishment is committed to accommodating all guests, featuring comprehensive accessibility options including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating.

Services Offered

BOKAGUÁ is a versatile venue that caters to a wide range of dining preferences and needs. The service options available include:

• Dine-in service with comfortable seating options.
• Dedicated table service for a full dining experience.
• Option for outdoor seating for a great al fresco dining experience.
• Convenient takeout service for enjoying the fusion flavors at home.
• Accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Brunch, Dinner, and Dessert dining options are available.
• Accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for dinner due to the restaurant's intimate size and popularity.

Features / Highlights

This unique Bronx spot shines across multiple dimensions, from its cuisine to its social and atmospheric qualities:

• Dominican-Asian Fusion Cuisine: A signature menu that expertly blends the best of Dominican and Asian culinary traditions, offering innovative and bold flavors.
• Craft Cocktail Program: Known for its exceptional beverage program, BOKAGUÁ features a great selection of craft cocktails, beer, wine, and hard liquor, including signature drinks like the Forest Fire and Limonada Coco.
• Trendy and Tropical Ambiance: The restaurant features a beautiful, modern, moody tropical decor that patrons often compare to upscale Manhattan lounges, making it a perfect spot for a romantic or special night out.
• Women-Owned and Latino-Owned: Proudly identifies as a women-owned and Latino-owned business, adding a unique cultural layer to its community presence.
• Accommodating and Inclusive Space: The venue is family-friendly, good for kids (with high chairs available), and identifies as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.
• Atmosphere Highlights: Frequently praised for its casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy atmosphere, with the added benefit of live music on select evenings.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: Provides a rich variety of choices, including small plates perfect for sharing, comfort food favorites, and healthy or vegan options like the Vegan Eggplant Dip.
• Attentive Service: While it can get busy, the staff is often lauded for being professional, warm, and knowledgeable about the menu and cocktails.

Contact Information

Planning your visit or need to make a reservation? Here is the essential contact information for BOKAGUÁ:

Address: 3541 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463, USA

Phone: (718) 766-0050

What is Worth Choosing on the Menu

The menu at BOKAGUÁ is designed to encourage sharing and exploration, offering a carefully curated selection of both small and large plates that showcase the inventive fusion concept. First-time visitors and regulars alike highly recommend starting with the "Small Shares," which are perfect for sampling the diverse flavors.

Highly recommended dishes frequently mentioned in local New York reviews include:

• Caribbean Oxtail Samosas: Often cited as an "immediate stunner," these savory pastries are filled with perfectly cooked and seasoned oxtail and served with yellow curry yogurt and a mango banilejo salsa.
• Lobster Fried Rice: A highly praised "Large Share" combining rich lobster bisque, Gochugaru, Thai basil, and boniato crisps for a complex and satisfying meal.
• Mofongo Dumplings: An innovative take on the classic Dominican dish, featuring crispy pork belly, a citrus demi-glace, and cilantro lime sauce.
• Jjajang Braised Shortrib: A comforting and flavorful large dish with a sweet plantain purée, tostones crumbs, and a chayote starfruit slaw.
• Lemongrass Shrimp Dumplings: Delicate and flavorful dumplings served with an herby citrus salad, crispy shallots, and a coconut green curry.

Beyond the food, the custom-crafted cocktails are a signature element. Be sure to explore their drink menu, which includes creative options like the Forest Fire, Limonada Coco, and the Smoked Old Fashioned. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or weekend brunch, BOKAGUÁ promises a delightful journey through Dominican-Asian culinary artistry, right here in the Bronx. Remember to call ahead or book your reservation to secure your table at this popular Riverdale destination.

BOKAGUÁ

3541 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463, USA