La Catracha

- 68 Van Riper St, Staten Island, NY 10302

In the diverse culinary landscape of New York City, finding an authentic, no-frills local eatery that consistently delivers on flavor and value is a win. **La Catracha**, located on Staten Island, stands out as just such a gem. Identified as both a **Mexican restaurant** and a **Fast food restaurant**, it offers a straightforward approach to Latin cuisine: simple, tasty, and filling food served in a casual and cozy setting. While the name itself may hint at Honduran influence (Catracha being a term for a Honduran woman, though the primary menu categorization is Mexican), the dishes served are broad in their appeal, providing generous portions of classic comfort food that resonate with the local Hispanic community and adventurous New York diners alike.

La Catracha is a neighborhood spot deeply geared towards providing local residents with hearty, authentic meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While the interior is often described as sparse with a focus on functionality—featuring a small number of tables and a bar area—the warmth of the service and the quality of the food speak volumes louder than the decor. The environment is decidedly **Casual and Cozy**, making it a perfect spot for **Solo dining** or a straightforward meal with **Groups**. New Yorkers who value substance over unnecessary formality will find the atmosphere welcoming, even with the possibility of a slight language barrier, which the staff's genuine hospitality readily overcomes. The restaurant prides itself on **Fast service**, making it an excellent choice for a quick bite without sacrificing authenticity.

The menu is extensive, focusing on traditional *Platillos* (Dishes) which are substantial in size and served with classic accompaniments like rice and beans or salad and plantain. Highlights from the menu include various preparations of steak, such as *Bistek Encebollado* (Onion Steak) and *Bistek a la Mexicana* (Mexican Steak), all affordably priced. Chicken options include the deeply flavorful *Pollo en Mole* and *Pollo en Salsa Verde* (Chicken in Green Sauce). A separate section is dedicated to *Mariscos* (Seafood), featuring unique items like *Mojarra Frita* (Fried Fish), *Pescado Rojo* (Red Snapper), and the luxurious *Sopa de Langosta* (Lobster Soup), alongside Shrimp in Garlic (*Camarones al Mojo de Ajo*). For those seeking something lighter, a selection of *Caldos* (Soup) and *Ensaladas* (Salad) are available, with the **Avocado Salad** being an accessible option.

La Catracha is conveniently located on the North Shore of Staten Island, accessible to residents of the borough and easy to reach for a specific destination meal:

• **Address:** 68 Van Riper St, Staten Island, NY 10302, USA. This location is nestled in a highly localized community area.
• **Accessibility:** The establishment features a **Wheelchair accessible entrance**, ensuring it is welcoming to all members of the community.

Focused on essential dining convenience, La Catracha offers the following services:

• **Dining Flexibility:** Available for **Dine-in** with comfortable **Seating** and **Table service** in its small dining area.
• **Off-Premise Options:** Essential for the NYC lifestyle, **Takeout** service is provided for easy meals at home or on the go.
• **Meal Times:** Caters to customers throughout the day, being **Popular for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner**, plus **Dessert**.
• **Family Amenities:** The restaurant is **Good for kids** and provides **High chairs** for families.
• **Offerings:** Includes a modest selection of **Alcohol** and **Beer**, alongside **Coffee**, and features a variety of **Comfort food**, **Healthy options**, and quick choices categorized as **Quick bite** and **Small plates**.
• **Payments:** Accepts major payment methods including **Credit cards and Debit cards**.

What truly defines the La Catracha experience for a New York diner is the authenticity and straightforward quality of its food:

• **Authentic Platillos:** The main dishes, served with rice, beans, or salad/plantain, offer a taste of genuine Latin home cooking. The array of steak dishes (*Bistek Encebollado, Bistek a la Mexicana*) and the rich **Pollo en Mole** are key highlights.
• **Generous Portions:** A defining feature is the **generous portions**, which patrons note are consistently filling and satisfying, offering excellent value for money.
• **Seafood Specials:** The seafood section (*Mariscos*) is a standout, providing options like whole **Fried Fish** (*Mojarra Frita*) and the rich **Seafood Soup** (*Sopa de Maricos*), which are harder to find at standard Mexican establishments.
• **Fast and Friendly Service:** The commitment to **Fast service** is a major draw, perfect for busy New Yorkers, and is complemented by a staff known for their genuine **warmth of service**.
• **Cozy, Local Vibe:** The atmosphere is authentically local, appealing to New Yorkers who prefer a true neighborhood experience over a chain restaurant.

For orders or inquiries, please use the following contact details:

• **Primary Phone:** (347) 600-2821
• **Mobile Phone (Alternative):** +1 347-600-2821
• **Location:** 68 Van Riper St, Staten Island, NY 10302, USA

La Catracha is worth choosing for New Yorkers who are tired of upscale, fusion, or overly commercialized Mexican food and are seeking a taste of simple, hearty, and authentic Latin cuisine. While the reviews suggest a careful approach to certain side dishes and drink prices, the core offerings—the *Platillos*, the **Tacos**, and the generous meals—are celebrated for being both delicious and substantial. Patrons consistently report leaving satisfied and full.

You are choosing a true, unpretentious local favorite where the focus is strictly on the food. It is an ideal venue for an affordable, tasty meal, whether you're dining solo, taking a break for lunch, or needing a quick, filling family dinner. It's a place where you'll find the soul of Latin comfort food in every bite, offering a welcome break from the city's frenetic pace in a uniquely **Cozy** and authentic Staten Island setting. It's a culinary journey to a vibrant kitchen, right on Van Riper Street.

La Catracha

68 Van Riper St, Staten Island, NY 10302, USA