Colina Cuervo

- 759 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216

Welcome to the heart of Crown Heights, Brooklyn, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles perfectly with the rich, savory scents of Latin American comfort food. For those seeking a unique and welcoming spot that transcends the typical New York cafe experience, look no further than Colina Cuervo. More than just a coffee shop, Colina Cuervo is a beloved, Latino-owned all-day cafe that has become a staple on Nostrand Avenue, serving up authentic Ecuadorian-inspired dishes alongside specialty coffee that keeps locals coming back for more.

Colina Cuervo offers a refreshing departure from the ordinary. It’s the perfect gathering place for a casual weekend brunch, a quick yet satisfying lunch, or a cozy corner to get some work done with a stellar cup of coffee. The owner, Jorge Salamea, an Ecuadorian native who has deep roots in the New York restaurant scene, created Colina Cuervo as a blend of his passion for quality food, his heritage, and the vibrant spirit of Brooklyn, a combination that truly shines through in every detail of the cafe. Having celebrated 10 years in the Crown Heights community, Colina Cuervo has cemented its status as a local gem, cherished for its consistently delicious food, great service, and warm, casual atmosphere.

Whether you're craving a hearty, flavorful Latin brunch that goes beyond standard fare, or simply need a great cup of artisanal coffee to fuel your day, Colina Cuervo delivers an authentic and exceptional experience.

Location and Accessibility: A Crown Heights Neighborhood Hub

Colina Cuervo is conveniently situated at 759 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA, placing it right in the heart of the Crown Heights neighborhood. The cafe's location on a bustling avenue near St. Johns Place makes it an easily accessible spot for residents and visitors alike.

Accessibility is a priority, as the establishment offers a welcoming environment for all patrons. The location features:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

For those commuting, the cafe is well-served by local transit options, making it a reliable destination regardless of where you are in New York City. The popularity of Colina Cuervo means it can get crowded, especially during peak brunch hours, but both the inviting indoor space and the available outdoor seating provide comfortable options. Customers often find the cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for solo dining, a quick bite, or a relaxed meeting. It is recommended to visit earlier to secure seating or be prepared to wait briefly, which many agree is well worth it for the quality of the food and drinks.

Services Offered by Colina Cuervo

Colina Cuervo is designed as an all-day cafe to meet the diverse needs of the Crown Heights community and beyond. The extensive range of services and dining options ensures a positive experience at any time of day:

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy table service and comfortable indoor or outdoor seating in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options are available for customers on the go, allowing them to enjoy their favorite Latin-American dishes and coffee at home or the office.
• Reservations Accepted: For planning ahead, the cafe accepts reservations, which is particularly helpful for groups.
• Extensive Coffee & Tea Menu: Offering a variety of hot and cold specialty beverages, including Macchiato, Cappuccino, Maple Latte, and a great tea selection.
• Full Meal Service: Dining options cover Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dessert.
• Free Wi-Fi: A great amenity for local users and tourists who wish to work on their laptop or connect while dining.
• Family-Friendly: The cafe is good for kids and caters to groups of friends or family.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts all major forms of payment, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Menu Highlights and Features

The menu at Colina Cuervo is a delightful celebration of Latin American flavors, rooted in the owner's Ecuadorian heritage. It masterfully blends traditional comfort food with fresh, healthy options, ensuring there is something for every palate. The kitchen focuses on homemade dishes, with many items receiving high praise from New Yorkers.

• Stellar Specialty Beverages: Beyond the excellent standard coffee, customer favorites include the Homemade Iced Horchata ($4.25), the warm and comforting Hot Horchata ($4.25), and the unique Horchata Latte ($5.50) and Maple Latte ($5.50).
• Must-Try Brunch & Plates: The Buttermilk Pancakes ($19.00) served with dulce de leche butter are a local legend. Other standout Latin-American brunch items include the Plato Ecuatoriano (Skirt steak, potato and annatto cakes, sunny side up egg, charred scallions - $17.00) and the highly recommended Pork Hash (Peruvian hominy, poached egg, pickled jalapenos - $18.00).
• The Best Tacos in the Neighborhood: The tacos are consistently hailed as some of the best in the area. Options include Chorizo Potato Tacos, Roasted Pork Tacos (Cochinita pibil), and Veggie Tacos with mushrooms.
• Savory and Sweet Baked Goods: Homemade pastries like the Baked Empanadas ($5.00), which are served with a red onion relish and chimichurri, and the Baked Guava & Cheese Empanada ($3.75) are perfect for a quick bite.
• Hearty Sandwiches: Options like the Slow Roasted Pork Sandwich ($15.00) with Annato oil and pickled red onions, or the Crispy Eggplant ($14.00) sandwich offer satisfying lunch choices.
• Dietary Inclusivity: The menu includes a variety of Vegetarian Options and Healthy Options, such as the Lentil Vegetable Soup ($14.00), the Ensalada de la Casa ($17.00), and different Avocado Toast preparations ($14.00).
• Cozy Atmosphere and Amenities: The cafe offers a casual and cozy setting, excellent for solo dining or working remotely thanks to the reliable Wi-Fi. It also includes a Gender-neutral restroom.

Contact Information

For those planning a visit to this Crown Heights favorite, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 759 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA

Phone: (718) 552-2005

What is Worth Choosing at Colina Cuervo

Colina Cuervo is worth choosing not just for its food, but for the full dining experience it provides—a vibrant taste of Latin American culture delivered with local New York sensibility.

Firstly, the Pancakes and Mas section of the menu is an absolute highlight. The Buttermilk Pancakes with dulce de leche butter are a famous sweet and savory dish that consistently earns high praise for being fluffy and hearty. Likewise, the Pork Hash with Peruvian hominy and pickled jalapenos is a must-try for a deeply flavorful and unique breakfast option. These signature plates showcase the cafe's commitment to delivering authentic Latin-influenced cuisine in a casual brunch setting.

Secondly, the Coffee Program is exceptional, often cited as having some of the best espresso in Brooklyn. The Horchata Latte is a particularly unique and refreshing choice. Paired with a pastry like the Corn Muffin with Dulce De Leche Frosting, it makes for a perfect morning indulgence.

Finally, for lunch or dinner, the Tacos are highly recommended. Whether it's the rich, savory filling of the Roasted Pork Tacos (Cochinita pibil) or the spiced flavor of the Chorizo Potato Tacos, they offer a fantastic, high-quality twist on a New York favorite. The overall positive atmosphere, combined with the fact that it is a long-standing, Latino-owned neighborhood establishment, makes Colina Cuervo a truly exceptional choice in Crown Heights. It’s a place where you can rely on consistently delicious meals and friendly service, truly earning its reputation as a beloved local spot.

Colina Cuervo

759 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA