La Cocina Boricua

- 2245 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462

La Cocina Boricua: Your Authentic Taste of Puerto Rico in New York

Introduction / Overview

While the initial search might categorize it as an "American restaurant," La Cocina Boricua proudly serves up the vibrant, complex, and beloved flavors of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine right in the heart of the Bronx. Located on Westchester Avenue, this restaurant is a local New York destination for anyone craving traditional dishes that tell the story of the island's rich culinary heritage. It's the place where locals and tourists alike can dive into deep, savory flavors, from perfectly prepared meats to expertly crafted Mofongos.

La Cocina Boricua offers a full-service experience, featuring not just incredible food but also a lively atmosphere complete with a dedicated bar. This isn't just a quick-stop eatery; it's a spot designed for an engaging dining experience, whether it's a cozy dinner, a festive group lunch, or a casual drink. The menu showcases signature Puerto Rican techniques and ingredients, with standout dishes like Bistec Relleno De Maduro En Salsa De Coco ($22.00) and their expansive Mofongo selections. Despite varying customer feedback on specific dishes, the general sentiment highlights the friendly staff, nice owners, and a great atmosphere, making it a fixture for authentic Latin food on this side of New York City.

Location and Accessibility

La Cocina Boricua is conveniently situated on a major thoroughfare in the Bronx, making it easily accessible for the local community and visitors to the New York region. The exact location is:

2245 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462, USA

Being on Westchester Avenue, the restaurant benefits from excellent access via public transportation, including the 6 subway line and numerous bus routes serving the surrounding neighborhoods. For those driving, the location offers practical options, with both Free Street Parking and Paid Street Parking available in the vicinity—a valuable amenity in the Bronx. Furthermore, La Cocina Boricua demonstrates a strong commitment to welcoming all patrons, featuring a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, Wheelchair Accessible Restroom, and Wheelchair Accessible Seating, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.

Services Offered

La Cocina Boricua provides a comprehensive range of services designed to accommodate various dining preferences and schedules throughout the New York day:

• Full Dining Options: They offer Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, along with comfortable Table Service and dedicated Seating for dine-in guests.
• Takeout and Delivery: Catering to the busy New York lifestyle, the restaurant offers convenient Takeout and local Delivery services.
• Full Bar Service: The onsite bar offers a fantastic selection of Beer, Wine, Hard Liquor, Cocktails, and even Happy Hour Drinks and Food, making it a great spot to socialize.
• Event Planning and Catering: The restaurant is available for Catering services, bringing authentic Puerto Rican flavor to private events and parties.
• Late-Night Food: For those seeking a delicious bite or drink later in the evening, they offer Late-Night Food options.
• Reservation Acceptance: The venue Accepts Reservations, which is highly recommended for groups or during peak dining hours.

Features / Highlights

La Cocina Boricua distinguishes itself in the competitive New York restaurant scene through its specific focus on authentic cuisine and a lively dining atmosphere:

• Mofongo Mastery: A cornerstone of the menu, they offer Mofongo in various styles including Pollo ($16.00), Jumbo Shrimp ($24.00), and the adventurous Trifongo (Ripe Plantain, Yucca And Green Plantain) With Skirt Steak And Shrimp ($36.00).
• Signature Protein Dishes: Highlights include specialty meat preparations such as Pasión Boricua (Skirt Steak With Jumbo Shrimp, $36.00) and unique poultry dishes like Pechuga Rellena De Camarones (Chicken Breast Stuffed With Shrimp) topped with a choice of Garlic, Mango, or Guava Sauce ($29.00).
• Great Bar Scene: The establishment boasts a Great Beer Selection and Great Cocktails, making it a popular spot for happy hour and evening enjoyment.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant is described as Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, providing multiple vibes under one roof—perfect for dates, family outings, or group gatherings. It caters well to Locals and Tourists.
• Fast Service: Despite offering table service and a cozy environment, the restaurant is highlighted for its Fast Service, ideal for a quick but satisfying lunch break.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or place an order for delivery or takeout, here is the contact information for La Cocina Boricua:

Address: 2245 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462, USA
Phone: (347) 281-5375
Mobile Phone: +1 347-281-5375

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers seeking to choose La Cocina Boricua, you are choosing an establishment that is dedicated to providing an authentic cultural and culinary experience. What is truly worth choosing here is the opportunity to savor traditional Puerto Rican food, especially the specialties, in a welcoming, full-service environment.

The Mofongo and Pionono dishes are the undeniable stars and should be a priority for any first-time visitor. The array of fillings, from Camarones (Jumbo Shrimp) to Ropa Vieja (Shredded Steak), showcases the kitchen's commitment to core Puerto Rican flavors. Similarly, the inventive meat dishes, particularly the Bistec Relleno De Maduro En Salsa De Coco, represent the pinnacle of their culinary offerings.

Beyond the entrées, the restaurant’s bar offerings are a major draw. For a complete NYC evening out, pairing your meal with one of their Great Cocktails or taking advantage of the Happy Hour menu is highly recommended. The lively, friendly atmosphere—often cited by customers—enhances the dining experience, making it a destination not just for food, but for the entire social occasion.

While one review mentions mixed feelings on flavor and pricing, another highlights the "amazing food," "friendly staff," and "Great atmosphere," suggesting a reliable experience for many loyal customers. For a taste of the Caribbean right in the Bronx, with great drinks and a place to relax, La Cocina Boricua offers a unique and worthwhile New York dining choice.

La Cocina Boricua

2245 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY 10462, USA