El Quetzalito

- 5403 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220

El Quetzalito: An Authentic Taste of Guatemala in Brooklyn

For New Yorkers seeking a culinary adventure that is both comforting and authentically Central American, El Quetzalito stands out as a must-visit destination. This popular Brooklyn establishment is a dedicated Guatemalan restaurant, bringing the rich, complex, and heartwarming flavors of the Mayan country straight to the streets of New York City. Unlike many places that blend Latin cuisines, El Quetzalito focuses on genuine Guatemalan preparations, offering a unique and deeply satisfying dining experience for both those familiar with the cuisine and newcomers eager to explore. The atmosphere is consistently described as casual, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal, whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a satisfying solo dining experience. It has established itself as a reliable source for comfort food and a quick bite—a true local gem for authentic food in a vibrant Brooklyn neighborhood.

Location and Accessibility

El Quetzalito is conveniently situated in the heart of Brooklyn, accessible to residents and visitors alike. The restaurant is located at:

Contact Information

Address: 5403 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA

Phone: (347) 689-3354 (also listed as Mobile Phone: +1 347-689-3354)

The location on 4th Avenue places it in a bustling, diverse section of Brooklyn, easily reachable via public transportation, making it simple for New Yorkers from any borough to stop by. Whether you live in the neighborhood or are looking for authentic Central American cuisine elsewhere in the city, its location is designed for easy access.

Services Offered

Recognizing the diverse needs of a metropolitan area like New York, El Quetzalito offers an extensive range of service options to ensure every customer can enjoy their food comfortably and conveniently.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the casual, welcoming atmosphere right in the restaurant.

• Takeout: Perfect for busy New Yorkers who want to pick up a delicious meal to enjoy at home or on the go.

• Delivery & No-Contact Delivery: Have your favorite Guatemalan dishes brought right to your door with flexible delivery options.

• Curbside Pickup: A convenient option for a quick, in-and-out experience.

• Drive-through: An incredibly rare and convenient service for a quick-service experience in a bustling city environment.

Features and Menu Highlights

El Quetzalito specializes in hearty, traditional Guatemalan fare, featuring stews, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages. Their menu is thoughtfully organized to offer a taste of both classic entrees and unique local specialties.

• Signature Beef and Stews: The menu features traditional Guatemalan slow-cooked dishes like Guisado De Res and the flavorful Pipian De Res ($14.00 each), showcasing the rich mole and spice blends famous in the country's central region.

• Chicken Specialties: Patrons can choose from classic dishes such as Pollo Frito ($13.00), Pechuga Asada ($14.00), and the unique Envuelto De Pacayas (date palm flower wrapped in egg batter, $12.00) or Envuelto De Brocoli ($12.00).

• Customer Favorites: The Churrasco (grilled steak) is highly praised by customers for its delicious flavor and generous portion size. Other popular Antojitos (snacks) mentioned in the community include Garnachas (small, fried corn tortillas topped with meat and sauce).

• Unique Sandwiches & BBQ: For a fun, substantial bite, try the Shuko Maya ($15.00), a style of gyro/sandwich, or the savory Costillas De Res En BBQ ($14.00), offering a distinct Central American take on BBQ beef ribs.

• Fresh Juices and Hot Beverages: To complement any meal, the restaurant offers Jugos Naturales (natural juices) like Orange, Apple, Carrot, and unique blends like Apple, Cucumber, Celery, and Spinach ($7.00). For cooler weather or a morning treat, they serve Atoles Calientes (hot porridges) like Incaparina ($3.00) and Coffee ($3.00).

• Casual Dining for All: The spot is Popular for Lunch and Solo Dining, but also caters to families by offering a dedicated Kids' Menu, ensuring a pleasant experience for all ages.

What is Worth Choosing at El Quetzalito

When navigating the diverse menu at El Quetzalito, certain items and experiences stand out as particularly worth choosing for a truly authentic taste of Guatemala.

First, the Churrasco is a must-try. As highlighted in customer reviews, it is consistently praised as delicious and offering a big portion for the price. This is a staple of Central American grilling and a reliable choice for meat lovers seeking value and flavor.

Second, dive into the classic stews. Options like Pipian De Res are defining dishes of Guatemalan culinary tradition. These stews are characterized by their rich, thick sauces made from a blend of roasted seeds, nuts, and spices—offering a depth of flavor that is truly unique and comforting, embodying the essence of authentic comfort food.

Finally, don't overlook the beverage selection. Choosing one of the Jugos Naturales or the specialty hot beverage Incaparina provides an authentic local pairing that you won't find at every Latin restaurant in New York.

In a city with countless dining options, El Quetzalito provides a valuable and often hard-to-find specialty: authentic, high-quality Guatemalan cuisine. The combination of excellent food, a casual environment, and a wide array of service options makes it a top choice for anyone in the New York area looking to explore the rich flavors of Central America.

El Quetzalito

5403 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA