La Garra Catracha

- 169-24 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432

Introduction / Overview

In the heart of Jamaica, Queens, a true culinary destination awaits those eager to explore the vibrant flavors of Central America: La Garra Catracha. As a dedicated Honduran restaurant, this establishment offers New Yorkers a genuine taste of the Caribbean coast, focusing on rich, authentic recipes that deliver unparalleled comfort and satisfaction. It is far more than just a place to eat; it's a neighborhood hub where food is good and the quality of human connection is valued, even if the ambiance is described as small and without the "most luxuje look." Customers consistently find the environment to be Pleasant and Clean, with a naturally Casual, Cozy atmosphere.

La Garra Catracha’s menu is a comprehensive tour of Honduran and Central American cuisine, covering everything from hearty morning meals to substantial dinner platters. They are Popular for every meal of the day, including Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and even a weekend Brunch. Their specialty lies in showcasing authentic dishes rarely found in mainstream restaurants across New York. Core offerings include the famous Baleadas—thick, warm Honduran-style flour tortillas filled with various ingredients—and Salvadoran-style Pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with savory fillings.

Beyond these staples, the menu highlights extensive sections dedicated to CARNES / Steaks, POLLO / Chicken, and especially impressive MARISCOS / Seafood selections. For those seeking a full, culturally immersive meal, the BANDEJAS TIPICAS / Typical Dishes offer generous, layered plates like the signature Bandeja Tipica Hondureña and the Bandeja Típica Salvadoreña, promising an enormous and satisfying feast. This variety of offerings—from quick, inexpensive appetizers to premium steak and seafood dinners—firmly establishes La Garra Catracha as a versatile and essential dining spot in the Queens community. It’s an ideal setting for Groups to share a meal or for a person engaging in Solo dining.

La Garra Catracha is strategically located in a high-traffic, easily reachable section of Jamaica, Queens, which is a major benefit for New York City residents relying on efficient transit. You can find this welcoming restaurant at 169-24 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA. This address places it directly on Jamaica Avenue, one of the borough’s principal commercial corridors.

Accessibility via the MTA subway system is excellent. The closest major subway station is the 169th Street station, which serves the F train of the IND Queens Boulevard Line. The station is located just a short walk away, typically at the intersection of 169th Street and Hillside Avenue, which is very close to Jamaica Avenue in this area. Furthermore, the area is well-served by numerous NYCT Bus routes, which frequently run along Jamaica Avenue and Hillside Avenue, making a trip here convenient from various parts of Queens.

For drivers, the restaurant offers a rare amenity for New York City: Free street parking is often available nearby, alleviating the common city hassle of finding a spot. The physical location itself is mindful of all patrons, offering a Wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring that the authentic flavors of Honduras are available to everyone. Its location makes it perfect for a meal before or after running errands in the busy Jamaica shopping district.

La Garra Catracha provides a full suite of services designed to meet the dynamic demands of a New York clientele, ensuring convenience whether you want to linger or take your meal on the go.

• Complete Dining Options: The restaurant offers a full day of dining, including Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, with comfortable Dine-in seating and friendly Table service.
• Convenient Off-Premise Options: For those short on time, fast Takeout service is available, along with local Delivery options for enjoying authentic Central American fare at home or work.
• Payment Flexibility: Customers can use various modern payment methods, including major Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Daily Food Offerings: The menu is robust, specializing in classic Comfort food, providing a Quick bite for busy schedules, and offering Small plates and appetizers like Pupusas and Empanadas for lighter dining.
• Beverage Service: A selection of both Hot drinks and fresh Natural juices is available, including specialty flavors like Tamarindo, Guanabana, and Horchata.
• Amenities: The restaurant is equipped with a clean Restroom and offers a welcoming environment that is noted as Good for kids.

La Garra Catracha’s appeal goes beyond its excellent location, drawing customers in with a selection of unique and high-quality culinary features that distinguish it as one of the best Honduran spots in Queens.

• Authentic Honduran Specialties: The restaurant is highly regarded for its signature dishes like the Baleada Regular ($5.63), the Baleada Gringa ($10.00) with grilled steak, and the hearty Pupusas with options including cheese, beans, chicken, and loroco ($3.75 each).
• Extensive Breakfast Menu: A major draw is the wide array of traditional Central American breakfast options, such as Huevos Rancheros / Ranch Eggs ($16.25) and various egg preparations served with tomato, peppers, and onions, perfect for a powerful start to any New York day.
• Variety of Seafood Dishes (Mariscos): The focus on fresh seafood is a significant highlight, with over ten different preparations including Camarones Enchilados (Shrimp in Spicy Tomato Sauce), Pescado Frito (Fried Fish), and various grilled and cream-sauce fillets.
• Signature Typical Platters (Bandejas Tipicas): For the most authentic and filling experience, the typical dishes like the Bandeja Tipica Hondureña ($27.50) offer a massive combination of meats, starches, and sides, representing the ultimate comfort meal.
• Cozy, Neighborhood Vibe: Despite its "small" size, the restaurant is highlighted by customers for its Pleasant, Clean Atmosphere and the overall quality of the service and staff, creating a genuinely warm and welcoming community establishment.

Connect with La Garra Catracha for authentic Honduran flavor right here in Queens.

Address: 169-24 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA

Phone: (718) 480-1279 (Available on mobile: +1 718-480-1279)

Choosing La Garra Catracha is choosing to step outside the standard New York dining fare and into a world of rich, delicious Honduran food that is expertly prepared and served with heart. For Queens residents, this restaurant fills a vital niche, offering a deep and authentic menu that goes far beyond typical Latin American fare found elsewhere in the city.

The true value lies in the breadth of their offerings across all dining periods. A New Yorker can stop by for a classic $16.25 Breakfast of Huevos Rancheros, return for a quick $5.63 Baleada at Lunch, and bring a group back for a celebratory Dinner featuring the impressive $27.50 Bandeja Tipica Hondureña. Few places offer such consistency and variety across all major meals, making it a reliable and versatile local spot.

Furthermore, the inclusion of often-overlooked amenities is a significant plus in New York. The presence of Free street parking and a Wheelchair accessible entrance removes common logistical headaches for many patrons. The welcoming Casual, Cozy atmosphere and the staff's dedication to service—even if just "ok"—are part of the genuine local experience that customers appreciate. The emphasis is less on luxury and more on the quality of human being and good food.

Whether you are a busy commuter needing a Quick bite of savory Pupusas, a family looking for a friendly place that is Good for kids, or someone seeking to explore authentic Central American Comfort food, La Garra Catracha delivers. It's a foundational piece of the Jamaica food landscape, offering a memorable, authentic, and satisfying meal every time you visit. Don’t miss the chance to try the fresh fruit Batidos or one of their many tempting seafood preparations. This is the real deal for Honduran flavor in NYC.

La Garra Catracha

169-24 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA