La Cueva Fonda: Authentic Mexican Cuisine in the Heart of the Bronx

La Cueva Fonda Introduce

La Cueva Fonda is a true gem in the Bronx, offering a vibrant and authentic taste of Mexico right in the heart of New York City. This family-owned restaurant, a recipient of the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, is praised by locals and seasoned travelers alike for serving what some call the "best Mexican food" on the East Coast. Walking into La Cueva Fonda feels like entering a traditional Mexican "fonda" or a vibrant corner of Mexico, with a cozy atmosphere and a menu that celebrates rich culinary traditions. The restaurant's dedication to home-style Mexican cuisine is evident in every dish, which are prepared with fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques. The menu is a comprehensive journey through Mexican gastronomy, featuring an extensive selection of classic dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes, from those seeking a familiar comfort meal to those eager to explore deeper into authentic flavors. The experience is more than just a meal; it's a heartfelt journey that makes diners feel as though they've taken a short trip home.

The menu at La Cueva Fonda is a major highlight, a testament to the richness of Mexican cooking. It offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to all dietary preferences, including robust vegetarian and vegan options. The offerings range from all-day breakfast items like Huevos Rancheros to hearty soups like Caldo De Res and Caldo De Camaron, a customer favorite. The appetizers, or "Antojitos," include beloved items like Guacamole Con Chips and Chalupas. For the main course, patrons can choose from an impressive selection of tacos, burritos, and Mexican sandwiches like the popular Cubana. Those looking for an authentic experience can explore their "Platillos" menu, which features dishes like Mole Poblano and Chiles Rellenos. Seafood lovers will appreciate the "Mariscos" section with various shrimp and fish preparations. The restaurant also serves a great selection of homemade Aguas Frescas, such as Horchata and Jamaica, and classic Mexican desserts like Tres Leches Cake and Churros. The menu's depth and breadth ensure that every visit can be a new and exciting culinary adventure.

Located at 961 Leggett Ave, La Cueva Fonda is a cornerstone of the Bronx community, a small but vibrant restaurant that attracts a diverse crowd of locals and tourists. Its location makes it a convenient stop for those in the neighborhood, and its reputation for authenticity makes it a destination for people from all over the city. The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is evident with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their dining experience. The bustling, open kitchen adds to the intimate and familial feel of the space, allowing guests to see the passion and care that goes into every dish. For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own home, the restaurant offers various convenient service options, including no-contact delivery, standard delivery, and takeout. This flexibility, combined with a central location, makes it a highly accessible and practical choice for any meal, whether you're planning a full dinner or just grabbing a quick bite.

No-contact delivery: A safe and convenient way to receive your meal at your doorstep.
Delivery: Get authentic Mexican food delivered directly to you.
Takeout: Place your order and pick it up for a quick meal on the go.
Dine-in: Enjoy your meal in the cozy and casual restaurant atmosphere.

La Cueva Fonda distinguishes itself with a number of features and highlights that enhance the dining experience. It is a women-owned business, which adds a personal and community-focused touch. The fast service is a major plus, as noted by customers who appreciate the quick turnaround on their orders. The restaurant is popular for all three main meals of the day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—as well as for solo dining, groups, and family outings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. The menu is incredibly inclusive, with offerings that include healthy options, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and even late-night food. The atmosphere is consistently described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with beautiful Mexican decorations and a warm, welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel like part of the family. The restaurant also has a restroom and accepts reservations, as well as various forms of payment including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. The combination of its authentic offerings and thoughtful amenities makes it a truly special place.

Highlights: Praised for its fast service and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Popular for: A go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as for solo dining and groups.
Accessibility: Features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating.
Offerings: Serves a comprehensive menu with vegetarian, vegan, and healthy options, as well as a salad bar and kids' menu.
Dining options: Available for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, catering, and dessert, with full table service.
Atmosphere: Casual, cozy, and trendy environment that is family-friendly.
Planning: Accepts reservations and is popular with locals and tourists alike.

For more information, to place an order, or to make a reservation, you can contact La Cueva Fonda directly. Their address is 961 Leggett Ave, Bronx, NY 10455, USA. For phone inquiries or orders, you can call them at (347) 406-5584 or their mobile number at +1 347-406-5584. The availability of a dedicated phone line ensures that customers can easily reach out to the restaurant, whether they are inquiring about menu availability, planning a catering event, or simply placing a pickup order. Their commitment to being accessible via phone and in person is a testament to their dedication to customer service. The restaurant's hours are typically from morning until late at night on most days, making it a convenient option for many schedules. Their clear and direct contact information is a crucial part of their seamless operation, making it easy for both new and loyal customers to get the service they need.

What is truly worth choosing about La Cueva Fonda is its exceptional authenticity and heartfelt approach to food. While some reviews mention past inconsistencies, the overwhelming consensus is one of praise for the quality, flavor, and freshness of the food. It’s a place that a well-traveled Mexican American would call the "best on the East Coast," which is a powerful endorsement. The menu is a journey of discovery, offering not just the usual tacos and burritos but also lesser-known, authentic dishes like Tlayudas, Pozole, and Pipian Verde. The generous portions and affordable prices, as noted by many patrons, make it a great value for the quality you receive. The fact that it's a women-owned business with a clear passion for its craft only adds to its charm. For anyone in New York looking for an intimate, vibrant, and genuinely delicious Mexican food experience that feels like a taste of home, La Cueva Fonda is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable and satisfying meal every time.

La Cueva Fonda Menu

All Day Breakfast
Huevos Estrellados $11.00
Over easy eggs served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Huevos a La Mexicana $11.00
Mexican style eggs (tomato, onions, jalapeno) served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Huevos Rancheros (Vegetarian) $11.00
(2) Sunny side up eggs in a spicy tomato sauce served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Huevos Revueltos (Vegetarian) $11.00
Scrambled eggs served with rice, beans, tortillas and side salsas.
Huevos Con Chorizo $12.00
Mexican sausage with scrambled eggs served with rice, beans, tortillas and side salsas.
Huevos Con Jamon $12.00
Scrambled eggs with ham served with rice, beans, tortillas and side salsas.
Breakfast Burrito $12.00
Breakfast Burrito filled with: french fries, choice of eggs style, avocado, cheese and beans. Side salsas
Pan Dulce $2.50
1 piece - Mexican sweet bread

Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles with Fried Eggs $15.00
Tortilla chips soaked in choice of red or green sauce. Topped with (2) fried eggs, sour cream, cotija cheese, sliced avocado, and diced onions.
Chilaquiles con carne / with meat $16.00
Tortilla chips soaked in choice of red or green sauce. Topped with sour cream, cotija cheese, sliced avocado, and diced onions, Your choice of meat.
Chilaquiles Regulares $12.00
Tortilla chips soaked in choice of red or green sauce. Topped with sour cream, cotija cheese, sliced avocado, and diced onions.

Tamales
Tamal Oaxaqueno Con Puerco $6.00
Tamal Oaxaca style, with red sauce and pork. Steamed in banana leaves
Tamal Dulce $3.00
Sweet Tamal filled with raisins and pineapple.
Tamal de pollo sala verde $3.00
Homemade steamed corn dough filled with chicken and green sauce.
Tamal de pollo salsa roja $3.00
Homemade steamed corn dough filled with chicken and red sauce.
Tamal de Mole con pollo $3.00
Homemade steamed corn dough filled with chicken and mole sauce.
Tamal de rajas con queso $3.00
Homemade steamed corn dough with roasted jalapeno and cheese

Appetizers | Antojitos
Guacamole Con Chips $12.00
8oz. Avocado, onion, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Served with a side of chips - please specify if you would like spice
Chips & Salsa $7.50
(8oz) Tomato based chunky salsa (onions, cilantro, chiles de arbol) served with a side of chips. salsa *as is* no adjustments
Tacos Dorados / Flautas $12.00
(4) Crispy rolled tacos topped with: beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, cheese and cilantro. Your choice of filling.
Gorditas $6.00
ONE Homemade corn dough fried and topped with: lettuce, tomato, sour cream, cheese and cilantro. Choice of filling
Chalupas Regular (with vegetarian options) $10.00
(4) Corn tortillas topped with onions, cilantro, sour cream, cotija cheese, your choice of green or red salsa.
Chalupas con carne/ with meat $14.00
(4) Corn tortillas topped with onions, cilantro, sour cream, cotija cheese, your choice of green or red salsa. Choice of meat

Tacos
Tacos Regulares $4.00
PRICE EACH TACO. Topped with cilantro, and onions. Side of limes, radish and salsas. When you buy 2 or more tacos they are served with grilled cactus, cambray onions and roasted jalapeno.
Tacos Especiales $4.00
PRICE EACH TACO. Topped with cilantro, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cotija cheese. Sides: radish, limes and salsa
Vegetarian Tacos $5.00
PRICE EACH TACO. Choose filling and style of taco.
Tacos Placeros $6.00
PRICE EACH TACO. Taco filled with rice, sauteed red onions, and grilled jalapenos. Choice of filling
Crispy Fish Tacos $6.00
PRICE EACH TACO. White fish battered and fried. Topped with cabbage, red onions, avocado, cilantro and chipotle mayo. Side limes, radish and salsa
(2) Tacos y (16oz) consome de Birria $15.00
Order of 2 birria tacos, served with a 16oz cup of consome. Served with cambray onions, limes, diced onions and cilantro.
Taco de Birria $5.00
PRICED EACH. Served with cambray onions, limes, diced onions and cilantro.

Tostadas
Tostadas Regulares $3.50
ONE Crispy flat tortilla topped with: refried beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, cotija cheese and cilantro.
Tostada with meat $5.00
Crispy flat tortilla topped with: refried beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, cotija cheese and cilantro. choice of meat

Sopes
Sopes Regulares $4.00
Homemade flat corn dough topped with: refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cotija cheese and cilantro.
Sope with meat $5.00
ONE Homemade flat corn dough topped with: refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cotija cheese and cilantro. Choice of meat

Picaditas
Picaditas Regular $4.00
PRICE 1: Homemade flat corn dough topped with: Red or green sauce, onions, sour cream, cheese and cilantro.
Picadita with meat $5.00
ONE Homemade flat corn dough topped with: Red or green sauce, onions, sour cream, and cotija cheese. Choice of meat

Nachos
Regular Nachos $12.00
Tortilla chips topped with black beans, mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, cotija cheese, sour cream and jalapenos. Vegetarian options available
Nachos with meat $15.00
Tortilla chips topped with black beans, mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, cotija cheese, sour cream and jalapenos. (choice of meat)

Quesadillas
Quesadilla Regular / Cheese $10.00
10'' Homemade corn tortilla, Oaxaca cheese, lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, cheese and cilantro.
Quesadilla con carne $12.00
Choice of meat. 10'' Homemade corn tortilla, Oaxaca cheese, lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, cheese and cilantro.

Burritos
Burrito Regular/ Cheese $10.00
Cheese Burrito- 12'' flour tortilla filled with rice, beans, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and jalapenos
Burrito con carne / with meat $11.00
Choice of meat. Cheese Burrito- 12'' flour tortilla filled with rice, beans, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and jalapenos

Mexican Sandwiches
Tortas $11.00
Choice of meat. Toasted torta bread, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, Oaxacan cheese, avocado, refried beans and pickled jalapeno
Cemitas $12.00
Toasted Cemita Bread with mayonnaise, Oaxaca cheese, papalo, avocado, refried beans and chipotle
Pambazo $14.00
Torta bread toasted and dipped in a red guajillo sauce, filled with: chorizo con papa (potato and mexican chorizo), quesillo, avocado, lettuce, cotija cheese, sour cream, and beans.
Cubana $16.00
Chicken, steak, Roasted pork, sausage, fried egg, Quesillo

Enchiladas
Enchiladas Rojas O Verdes $15.00
(4) Rolled tortillas topped with red or green sauce, lettuce, cotija cheese, sour cream, onion, and radishes. Choice of filling
Enchiladas De Mole $16.00
(4) Rolled tortillas topped with homemade mole sauce, lettuce, cotija cheese, onions, and radishes. Choice of filling

Tlayudas
Tlayudas $22.00
Choice of meat. A traditional Oaxacan style handmade tortilla topped with refried beans, Oaxaca cheese, cabbage, avocado, green salsa, and tomatoes.

Mariscos
Mojarra Frita $22.00
Fried Porgie, served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Mojarra a La Mexicana $22.00
Mexican style Porgie (tomatoes, jalapeños and onion), served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Mojarra Al Mojo De Ajo $22.00
Porgie in a garlic sauce, served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Mojarra a La Diabla $22.00
Porgie with Spicy Chipotle Sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Camarones Al Ajillo $18.00
Shimp with Garlic and Guajillo Sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Camarones a La Mexicana $18.00
Mexican Style Shrimp (tomatoes, jalapeños, onions) served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Camarones a La Diabla $18.00
Mexican Shrimp in Spicy Chipotle Sauce served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Salmon a La Plancha $22.00
Pan-Seared Salmon (topped with spicy avocado sauce) served with rice, beans and tortillas OR salad
Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel De Camaron) $18.00
Shrimp in a spicy Mexican cocktail sauce, served with chips and crackers.
Ceviche de pescado $18.00
Mexican style ceviche. White fish diced raw, red onions, cucumber, tomato, avocado, fresh lime juice, orange juice, cilantro and salt. Served with salt crackers and side chips.

Caldos
Caldo De Res $15.00
32 oz Mexican Beef Stew Soup (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis)-Medium Spice-
Pancita $15.00
32 oz Mexican Beef tripe soup (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis)
Pozole $15.00
32 oz Hominy Corn Soup with pork or chicken. (side lettuce, radish, limes, onion, oregano, chili powder and 3 plain tostadas)
Chilate De Pollo $15.00
32 oz Chicken Soup in Spicy Guajillo Broth (side rice, tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis)
Sopa de pollo $15.00
32 oz Mexican style chicken noodle soup with vegetables (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis)
Consome De Chivo (Call for availability) $18.00
32 oz Goat meat and broth with chick peas, chipotle and rice. (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis) **Call for availability**
Caldo De Camaron $18.00
32 oz Shrimp Soup (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis)-medium spice-
Caldo De Mariscos $22.00
32 oz Seafood Soup (side tortillas, limes, onion, cilantro and chilis) -medium spice- **Has shellfish**

Platillos / Entrees
La Parrillada (Serves 2-3) $42.00
Grilled steak, chicken, spicy pork, chorizo, salted beef, porkchop, shrimp, fried cheese, grilled cactus, chambray onions, side guacamole, radish, limes and roasted jalapenos. Served with small rice, small beans, tortillas, and side salsa.
Grilled Steak (Carne Asada) $15.00
Choose style of preparation. Served with small rice, small beans, tortillas, and side salsa.
Grilled Chicken Breast (Pollo Asado) $15.00
Choose style of preparation. Served with small rice, small beans, tortillas, and side salsa.
Porkchops (Chuletas) $16.00
(2) Porkchops. Choose style of preparation. Served with small rice, small beans, tortillas, and side salsa.
Milanesa $15.00
Choice of either breaded chicken breast or breaded steak. Served with a side of rice, beans and tortillas.
Cecina Asada con nopales, rajas y cebolla $18.00
Salted beef with grilled cactus, sauteed onions and roasted jalapenos. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Chiles Rellenos $16.00
(2) Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and served in a light tomato broth. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Mole Poblano $18.00
Traditional Mexican sauce of dried chiles, peanuts, almonds, and chocolate over chicken. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas
Alambres $16.00
Mixed sauteed peppers, bacon, onions, pineapple, and Oaxaca cheese. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Choice of meat
Fajitas $16.00
Mixed onions, peppers, and cheese. Served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Choice of meat
Pipian Verde $16.00
Chicken or Pork in a green pumpkin seed based sauce. With rice, beans and tortillas on the side.
Barbacoa (Call to check availability) $20.00
Goat slowly cooked with aromatic herbs. Served with rice, beans, pickled jalapenos, tortillas and side salsa. **Please call ahead to check availability**

Burgers & More
Cheeseburger $7.00
American cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, bun toasted with butter.
Cheeseburger Deluxe $12.00
American cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, bun toasted with butter. Served with a side of shoestring fries.
Chicken Tenders and Fries $10.00
4 Chicken tenders served with a side of fries, honey mustard and ketchup.
French Fries $5.00

Ensaladas (Salads)
House Salad $7.00
Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, corn and radish.
Caesar Salad $7.00
Lettuce, Monterey cheese, cotija cheese, seasoned croutons, and Caesar dressing.

Smoothies and Milkshakes
Strawberries and banana $7.00
Milk or Juice
Blueberries, Pineapple, Banana $7.00
Milk or Juice
Mango, Raspberries, Pineapple $7.00
Milk or Juice

Aguas Frescas
Horchata $4.00
Homemade horchata. Made with rice, milk, almonds and cinnamon. **CONTAINS NUTS**
Tamarindo $4.00
Homemade tamarind juice.
Jamaica $4.00
Homemade Hibiscus juice.
Passion Fruit $4.00
Homemade passion fruit juice.
Iced cafe de olla $4.00
16 oz. Iced sweetened Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon.
Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice $7.00

Desserts
Homemade Flan $6.00
Tres Leches Cake $5.50
Tamal Dulce $3.00
Homemade sweet tamal filled with raisins and pineapple.
Churro cheese cake $8.00
with nutella and fresh strawberries
Churros $6.00
Churros filled with caramel $6.00

Bebidas Calientes (Hot Drinks)
Arroz con leche $3.00
Champurrado
a chocolate-based atole, warm and thick Mexican beverage
Cafe de Olla $1.75
Semi-Sweet Mexican coffee with cinnamon
Tea $1.75
Choose flavor and size

Sodas
Jarritos $3.50
Sangria $3.50
Sidral $3.50
Boing $3.50
Snapple $2.75
Canned sodas $1.75

Side Orders
Arroz / Rice $2.50
Frijoles / Beans $2.50
Sour Cream $1.50
Nopales $5.00
Chiles Toreados $4.00
Cebollines Asados $4.00
1/2 Avocado $3.00
Pico de gallo $4.00
Chipotle Mayo $1.50

La Cueva Fonda Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Salad bar
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
Locals
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
Kids' menu

La Cueva Fonda Photos

La Cueva Fonda Location

La Cueva Fonda

New York Bronx County Woodstock Leggett Avenue

961 Leggett Ave, Bronx, NY 10455, USA

La Cueva Fonda Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 328 user reviews.

deliveryfish tacostamaleshorchatapozolegorditaschurrostortachicharronagua fresca

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

The food was so good. I mostly enjoyed the rice drink. The service was great. Everyone was very welcoming and kind.
June 04 · Voke Akpos
I been ordering from cueva fonda for years, but there quality of food goes down year by year and is just not good I order some carnitas tacos and man they send me overcooked pieces. I take it as an insult I’m done. Want some quality tacos to go a place like Los tacos no 1. Or some places in queens but this place is down bad.
September 21 · anthony flores
Amazing food and atmosphere. If you feel like traveling without leaving NYC come here and enjoy it
July 21 · Filip Wolak
First time eating here and completely enjoyed the food that is served. Fast service. I will definitely be returning with many others to enjoy this experience!
May 30 · Maver _2008
La Cueva Fonda is a hidden gem in Longwood! The food is absolutely incredible, and the prices are unbeatable. I've been coming here for years, and everything I've tried has been delicious. The burritos with Camarones, steak, chicken – they're all amazing, and the tacos are fantastic too!
September 08 · Renzo Pereda
Delicious mole, tacos, pozole -- great menu! The tacos came with a side of grilled nopales, chili and onions. And the flavor of the mole poblano was amazing.The only less good thing was the Caesar salad, which we probably should have known better than to order, and the cafe de olla tasted kind of watered down with not much coffee taste, but I've never had it before so I'm not sure what it be like.I would definitely go again so I can try the fried fish and champurrado next time!
September 17 · Elaine Chen