El Viejo Gran Cafe

- 498 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to El Viejo Gran Cafe, a vibrant Puerto Rican restaurant located at 498 E 138th St in the Bronx, New York. In a city known for its diverse and rich culinary scenes, this establishment stands out as a true gem, offering a taste of authentic Caribbean and Latin American flavors right in the heart of the borough. El Viejo Gran Cafe is more than just a place to get food; it's a destination that offers a lively atmosphere, great coffee, and a menu filled with comforting and delicious dishes. Whether you're a local seeking your favorite meal or a visitor looking to experience the vibrant culture, this article will give you all the details you need to know.

The name "El Viejo Gran Cafe" translates to "The Old Great Cafe," and it lives up to its name by offering a classic, welcoming experience. It's a place that caters to everyone, from solo diners to large groups and families. With a reputation for great coffee and fast service, it's a perfect spot for any meal of the day. The inclusion of live music adds an extra layer of charm, making it a great place to not just eat, but to enjoy an evening out. The menu is extensive, featuring everything from traditional breakfast items to hearty seafood and meat dishes, ensuring there’s something for every palate. This guide is designed to highlight all the features that make El Viejo Gran Cafe a must-visit spot in the Bronx.

El Viejo Gran Cafe is conveniently located at 498 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454. This puts it in a prominent and easily accessible part of the Bronx, making it a convenient destination for a meal.

The restaurant is highly accessible, with both a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can comfortably dine and enjoy the experience. The location is also easy to find, situated on a well-known street, making it a simple stop whether you're walking or arriving by other means.

El Viejo Gran Cafe provides a full range of services to cater to all types of customers and dining preferences.

• Delivery: For ultimate convenience, the restaurant offers delivery services, bringing their delicious Puerto Rican cuisine straight to your door.
• Takeout: If you're on the go and need a quick meal, their takeout service is fast and efficient.
• Dine-in: The restaurant provides a cozy and casual atmosphere for dine-in customers, complete with table service. It’s a great place to sit down and enjoy a meal at your own pace.
• Catering: For events, parties, or corporate lunches, El Viejo Gran Cafe offers catering services. Their wide menu of classic dishes is perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is a great feature for groups or for those who want to ensure they have a table during peak dining hours.

El Viejo Gran Cafe is known for several key features that set it apart from other dining options in the area.

• Highlights:
  • Fast Service: Customers appreciate the quick service, which is perfect for a lunch break or a fast dinner.
  • Great Coffee: The coffee is a major highlight, making it a great spot for a morning pick-me-up or a post-meal treat.
  • Live Music: The presence of live music adds a vibrant and enjoyable element to the dining experience, creating a lively atmosphere.
• Popular for: The restaurant is popular for a wide range of dining occasions, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is also a favorite for solo dining.
• Offerings: The menu is extensive and includes:
  • Alcohol: The restaurant has a bar onsite and offers a selection of beer, cocktails, and wine.
  • Comfort Food: The core of the menu is classic comfort food, with hearty and flavorful Puerto Rican dishes.
  • Late-night food: The restaurant is a reliable option for a late-night meal.
  • Quick bite and small plates: perfect for a snack or for those who want to try a variety of dishes.
• Amenities: The restaurant is well-equipped with modern amenities, including a bar onsite, restrooms, a gender-neutral restroom, and Wi-Fi.
• Atmosphere and Crowd: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy. It draws a diverse crowd, including families, groups, locals, and even tourists. It is also considered good for kids and provides high chairs and a kids' menu.

The menu at El Viejo Gran Cafe is a celebration of Puerto Rican and Latin American cuisine. With so many options, here are some highlights of what is worth choosing:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a classic "Desayuno Hispano." The 3 Golpes (Plantain, Salami, Cheese and Egg) is a signature dish that offers a true taste of the culture. Other great options include the various omelettes and the Salami Frito Con Tostones O Mangu.
• Main Courses: The menu offers a fantastic selection of meats, seafood, and poultry. The Mofongos are a must-try, with a variety of fillings like Camarones (Shrimp) and Chicharron De Cerdo (Fried Pork Chunks). For a classic meal, you can't go wrong with the Chuletas Fritas Con Arroz Y Habichuelas (Fried Pork Chops with Rice & Beans) or the Bistec Salteado (Steak with Onions).
• Seafood: The seafood menu is impressive, with dishes like Cazuela De Mariscos (Seafood Casserole) and Camarones Al Ajillo (Shrimp with Garlic). For something truly special, the Cola De Langosta Rellena (Lobster Tail Stuffed with Seafood) is a fantastic choice.
• Juices and Drinks: The fresh juices are a standout, with unique and traditional options like Parcha (Passion Fruit), Coco (Coconut), and Morirsoñando (Orange Juice with Milk).
• Lunch Specials and Combos: For great value, check out the "Daily Lunch" menu, which includes popular stews like Rabo Guisado (Oxtail Stew) and Chivo Guisado (Goat Stew). The "Combos" and "Family Combos" are also excellent choices for sharing with a group, offering a variety of fried platters and special deals.

El Viejo Gran Cafe's ability to offer a comprehensive dining experience—from a quick coffee to a full-course meal with live music—makes it a significant spot in the Bronx. Its extensive menu and commitment to fast service and a lively atmosphere make it a solid choice for any occasion.

For more information, to place an order, or to make a reservation, you can contact El Viejo Gran Cafe using the information below.

• Address: 498 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454
• Phone: (718) 993-3932

El Viejo Gran Cafe

498 E 138th St, Bronx, NY 10454, USA