Chapines Bakery

- 7-09 Beach 20th St, Far Rockaway, NY 11691

Welcome to the heart of Far Rockaway, Queens, where the vibrant flavors of Central America come alive at Chapines Bakery. Nestled in a community celebrated for its diversity, this local establishment offers a unique and authentic taste of Guatemalan and broader Latin American cuisine. Chapines Bakery serves not just as a bakery, but as a culinary hub providing hearty meals, quick bites, and traditional specialities that appeal to the neighborhood's rich tapestry of cultures and anyone seeking genuine, comforting food. For New Yorkers looking to explore a different side of the city's incredible food scene, this spot in the Rockaways offers a delicious and accessible experience.

The Far Rockaway area itself, situated on the eastern end of the Rockaway Peninsula, is a dynamic community characterized by a significant population of African American and Hispanic/Latino residents, including many immigrants. This cultural richness directly influences the local food landscape, making places like Chapines Bakery essential gathering points for traditional flavors and culinary heritage. Chapines Bakery's offering of Guatemalan dishes—including appetizers, breakfast, house specialties, and a range of Mexican and Central American platters—is a testament to the diverse and evolving tastes of Queens, providing a slice of home for many and an exciting discovery for others.

More than just an ordinary bakery, Chapines brings the savory side of Guatemalan cooking right to the busy streets of New York. While the name suggests baked goods, the menu prominently features a full range of meals, appetizers, and house-made specialties, highlighting the country's rich culinary traditions. This combination of offerings makes it a versatile spot, perfect for grabbing a quick, satisfying breakfast on the way to work, picking up a flavorful lunch, or enjoying a full, comforting dinner. It truly embodies the spirit of a neighborhood staple, serving up flavor and tradition every day.

The food at Chapines Bakery showcases the diverse and often rustic comfort food that Central American cuisine is famous for. The menu is a delightful mix of options for every part of the day, ensuring that whether you are looking for a savory breakfast, a light appetizer, or a rich main course, you can find something that truly satisfies. The dedication to providing authentic tastes, such as the hearty and complex flavors found in the House Specials, sets this establishment apart as a genuine destination for regional cuisine in Far Rockaway.

The commitment of Chapines Bakery to bringing authentic dishes to the Queens community is a valuable part of the area's food ecosystem. In a peninsula where accessibility to a wide range of food choices can sometimes be a challenge, local, culturally specific restaurants like this fill a crucial role, providing beloved, traditional meals at accessible prices. It is a place where you can find familiar flavors that remind you of home or embark on a new culinary adventure right here in New York City.

The environment at Chapines Bakery is geared towards convenience and quick, friendly service. It is structured for locals and visitors who need to get a great meal without a long wait. This focus on efficiency and accessibility is particularly beneficial in a fast-paced borough like Queens, making it a reliable option for daily dining needs.

The selection from the display case offers a clear window into the culinary identity of the bakery/restaurant, blending quick, affordable Central American street-food favorites with more substantial, traditional meals.

The appetizer section, known as 'Antojitos Chapines,' is where many newcomers start their journey. These small, flavorful bites are ideal for a snack or for sharing. The main dishes and house specialties provide a deeper look into the core of Guatemalan cooking, offering rich stews and traditional plates that are both unique and immensely satisfying. Furthermore, the inclusion of popular Mexican and broader Central American platillos ensures there is a wide range of familiar and appealing options for a diverse customer base.

The dedication to traditional cooking methods and authentic ingredients ensures that each item, from the simplest tostada to the most complex house special, carries the genuine taste of Central America. This authenticity is a major draw for the local community and food enthusiasts across the borough.

The breakfast selections, 'Desayunos,' are especially notable for their satisfying and traditional approach to starting the day, offering a true taste of a Central American morning. The inclusion of Tostadas—simple, fresh, and customizable—provides a lighter, quick option for those on the go.

Services Offered

• Bakery: While specific baked goods are not detailed, the establishment is designated as a bakery.
• Takeout Service: Customers can easily pick up their orders to enjoy off-site.
• Quick Visit Planning: The business is set up to accommodate a fast and efficient stop.
• Authentic Guatemalan Appetizers (Antojitos Chapines) are available, such as Garnachas and Enchiladas Guatemaltecas.
• Traditional Guatemalan Breakfast (Desayunos), including Platanos Fritos and Desayuno Tipico.
• Flavorful House Specials (Especial de la Casa), featuring rich dishes like Pepian and Hilachas.
• Popular Central American and Mexican Dishes, including Regular Tacos and Regular Burritos.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Guatemalan Menu: Offers genuine flavors and traditional dishes not commonly found in typical NYC eateries.
• Affordable Pricing: The menu displays highly accessible price points for a variety of meals, making it a budget-friendly option for the community.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu successfully blends traditional Guatemalan plates with wider Central American and Mexican favorites, catering to a broad palate.
• Community Staple: Located in the heart of Far Rockaway, serving a diverse local clientele.
• Quick and Convenient: Service options are geared toward speed, making it an excellent choice for individuals needing a quick meal or to-go order.

The customer feedback provided, while mixed and including one unrelated comment, offers a glimpse into the operational realities of a local establishment. The comment regarding a cake ingredient shortage suggests that for specialized or large-scale bakery items, it might be advisable to call ahead to confirm availability. However, the comprehensive and reasonably priced menu of savory Guatemalan food remains the core offering and strength of the establishment.

Contact Information

Address: 7-09 Beach 20th St, Far Rockaway, NY 11691, USA

Phone: (718) 868-2800

Mobile Phone: +1 718-868-2800

What is Worth Choosing

Chapines Bakery stands out as a must-visit in Queens for those seeking authentic, home-style Central American cuisine. The value here lies in its dedication to serving real Guatemalan dishes, which act as a culinary bridge for the local community and an educational, flavorful experience for all New Yorkers. You should choose Chapines for:

• The Authentic Specialties: Dive into the rich flavors of House Specials like the Pepian or Hilachas, which are complex, traditional Guatemalan stews rarely found on mainstream menus.
• A Hearty Start to the Day: The Desayuno Tipico is a perfect example of a filling and culturally rich breakfast, combining traditional elements like fried plantains (Platanos Fritos) with eggs, beans, and other sides for a complete meal.
• The Savory Appetizers: The Antojitos Chapines, particularly the Garnachas and Enchiladas Guatemaltecas, are essential street-food classics that offer intense flavor in a small, satisfying bite. They are perfect for sharing or as a quick snack.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Located right in Far Rockaway, Chapines is designed for the fast-paced New York lifestyle, offering quick service and takeout options for a flavorful meal on the go.
• Cultural Exploration: By choosing Chapines Bakery, you are supporting a local business that serves as a vital anchor for Guatemalan and Latin American culture in Queens, enriching the borough’s already legendary diversity.

Whether you're a long-time resident of the Rockaways, a commuter passing through, or a food adventurer from across the boroughs, Chapines Bakery offers a warm, flavorful stop on your culinary map. It is a genuine, local spot providing the traditional tastes that make the Queens food scene one of the most exciting in the world. Don't miss the chance to savor the authentic Central American spirit served up fresh at this Far Rockaway gem.

Chapines Bakery

7-09 Beach 20th St, Far Rockaway, NY 11691, USA