El Quetzal Restaurant

- 346 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck, NY 10543

Introduction / Overview: Your Authentic Gateway to Guatemala in Westchester, NY

For New York residents in Westchester County seeking a truly authentic culinary journey, El Quetzal Restaurant in Mamaroneck stands out as a vibrant and essential destination. Named after the brilliant national bird of Guatemala, this restaurant brings the rich, comforting, and distinct flavors of Central America right to Mamaroneck Avenue. It is more than just a place to eat; it is a cultural and culinary hub that specializes in genuine Guatemalan cuisine, setting it apart from typical neighborhood Mexican or Latin American fare.

In the expansive and diverse dining landscape of New York, El Quetzal has carved out a niche by offering traditional dishes rarely found locally. Here, you’ll discover the true comfort food of Guatemala, characterized by slow-cooked stews, fresh handmade tortillas, and unique appetizers. From the moment you step inside, the goal is to provide a warm, family-friendly, and welcoming atmosphere where the food speaks to generations of tradition. Locals consistently praise the attentive service, which enhances the feeling of being welcomed into a Central American home, making every visit a special occasion whether you are dining solo or with family.

Unlike many quick-service eateries, El Quetzal is a full-service dining experience that embraces all dining occasions, from a morning breakfast that truly satisfies to a hearty, relaxing dinner. The commitment to fresh ingredients is palpable in every dish, from the slow-simmered sauces to the perfectly prepared meats and fresh seafood options. If you are looking to explore the depth of Central American flavor—beyond the familiar—El Quetzal is the establishment New Yorkers rely on for quality, authenticity, and a delightful neighborhood feel.

Location and Accessibility: Foundational in Mamaroneck’s Dining Scene

Strategically situated in the bustling heart of Westchester County, El Quetzal Restaurant is conveniently located on one of Mamaroneck’s most prominent streets, ensuring ease of access for local residents and those driving in from other parts of New York state. The address is:

346 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck, NY 10543, USA

This central Mamaroneck location places it within easy reach of local shops and community centers. For those planning a dinner or a weekend brunch, the convenience of the location, often complimented by a welcoming and clean environment, contributes significantly to the overall positive experience. Being on Mamaroneck Avenue, it serves as a straightforward destination for locals looking to enjoy authentic international cuisine without venturing into Manhattan. The accessibility of the location is crucial for its popularity as a local gem, ensuring that a spontaneous decision for authentic Guatemalan food is easily fulfilled.

Services Offered

El Quetzal Restaurant provides a flexible range of services tailored to the needs of the busy New York commuter and the family looking for a leisurely meal:

• Dine-in Service: A full-service experience in a clean, welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Takeout Ordering: Perfect for locals seeking a quick, authentic meal to enjoy at home or during a workday lunch break.
• Accepts Reservations: Planning a group event or a weekend dinner? The restaurant accepts reservations, ensuring your table is ready upon arrival.
• Extensive Menu Coverage: Serving traditional Guatemalan and Central American dishes for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Catering to All Palates: Offers a wide variety of protein sources including beef, chicken, pork, and diverse seafood and vegetarian-friendly options.
• Beverage Selection: Serves traditional Central American drinks like **Horchata** (a refreshing rice-based cinnamon beverage) and various **Aguas Frescas**.

Features / Highlights: Authentic Guatemalan Specialties

What truly sets El Quetzal apart for the discerning New York diner is its steadfast commitment to authentic Guatemalan recipes, providing a menu that acts as a true educational and flavorful experience:

• Signature Guatemalan Plates: The restaurant is a must-visit for its traditional dishes, including **Hilachas** (shredded beef simmered in a rich, mild Guatemalan tomato-based sauce with potatoes and rice), **Pepian** (a rich, complex chicken stew often considered the national dish), and **Chiles Rellenos** (Poblano peppers stuffed with chicken or beef).
• The King of Breakfast—Desayuno Chapin: This is a required experience for New York food enthusiasts. The hearty Guatemalan Breakfast typically includes eggs, fried plantains, fresh cheese, sour cream, black beans, avocado, and sometimes a cut of steak or chorizo, providing a complete and comforting meal to start the day.
• Authentic Appetizers (Antojitos): Explore the appetizer selection, featuring traditional **Garnachas** (small, open-face fried tortillas topped with savory ingredients and cheese), **Enchiladas Guatemaltecas** (crispy tortillas with a unique topping of cabbage, beets, and cheese), and **Tamales Guatemaltecos** wrapped in banana leaves for distinct flavor.
• Hearty Seafood Options: Beyond the meats, the menu offers excellent seafood, including the whole **Mojarra Frita** (fried tilapia) and a variety of ceviches, showcasing the coastal influences of the region.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Known for a welcoming vibe that makes patrons "feel like family," the restaurant is popular with local families and offers a clean, inviting space for all ages, making it a reliable spot for a casual yet authentic dinner.

Contact Information

For New Yorkers planning their next authentic Central American meal or needing to arrange a large takeout order, please use the following contact details:

Address: 346 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck, NY 10543, USA

Phone: (914) 630-0975

Mobile Phone: +1 914-630-0975

What is Worth Choosing: A True Taste of the Andes and the Coast

For anyone in the New York metropolitan area, choosing El Quetzal is choosing culinary authenticity and an escape from the ordinary. What makes it particularly worth selecting is its dedication to presenting the unique and complex flavor profiles of Guatemala. While Mexican restaurants are abundant in New York, finding a spot that specializes in dishes like **Hilachas** or a perfectly executed **Desayuno Chapin** is rare and valuable.

The **Churrasco Chapin**, a substantial platter featuring a variety of grilled meats served with all the traditional sides—plantains, rice, beans, and fresh guacamole—is an ideal choice for first-timers looking for a comprehensive taste of the menu's best offerings. For breakfast or a lighter bite, the simple pleasure of **Plátano Frito Con Crema** (fried plantain with cream) offers a sweet and savory delight that is quintessential Central American comfort food.

Ultimately, El Quetzal delivers on its promise of a high-quality, authentic dining experience. It serves as a vital anchor for Central American culture in Westchester, providing New Yorkers with a consistently friendly atmosphere and a menu full of flavorful dishes crafted with genuine care. By choosing El Quetzal, you are not just getting a meal; you are getting a fresh, flavorful, and traditionally prepared meal that contributes to the rich cultural fabric of the New York dining scene.

El Quetzal Restaurant

346 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck, NY 10543, USA