Marisco El Submarino

- 226 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Mariscos El Submarino has emerged as a true standout in New York City's vibrant culinary scene, celebrated for its dedication to authentic coastal Mexican cuisine. What began as a local gem in Jackson Heights, Queens, has since expanded its delicious reach, bringing its fresh, vibrant flavors to new neighborhoods. This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in New York seeking a genuine taste of Mexican seafood, with a menu that transports diners straight to the beaches of Sinaloa.

The story of Mariscos El Submarino began when the owners, a husband-and-wife team, noticed a void in the local dining landscape for the kind of authentic, no-frills seafood they grew up with in Mexico. They opened their first location in 2020, and it quickly gained a reputation for its killer bowls of aguachile and its lively, beachy atmosphere. The restaurant's success has led to multiple locations, each with its own unique charm, but all sharing the same commitment to quality ingredients and bold, memorable flavors.

From the moment you step inside, the ambiance is lively and inviting. The decor often features a kitschy, mustachioed submarine mascot and other playful sea-themed elements that add to the casual, fun-loving vibe. Whether it's the original fluorescent-lit counter-service spot in Queens or the more refined, full-service Brooklyn locations, the goal remains the same: to provide an authentic and flavorful experience that feels both exciting and comforting. Diners consistently rave about the friendly and attentive service, which adds to the overall pleasant dining experience.

One of the most talked-about aspects of Mariscos El Submarino is its signature dish, aguachile. This Mexican specialty is similar to ceviche but with a more pronounced and zesty kick. It consists of raw seafood—typically shrimp, fish, or octopus—marinated in a fiery blend of lime juice, chili peppers, red onions, and cucumber. It is often served in a large molcajete, a traditional Mexican mortar, which makes for a truly impressive and shareable presentation. The restaurant offers several varieties, including the brilliant green Aguachile Verde, made with cilantro and serrano peppers, and the smoky Aguachile Negro, which gets its dark color from a blend of charred green and red chiles. For those who enjoy a sweet and spicy combination, the Aguachile Mango Habanero is a popular choice, known for being one of the spiciest options on the menu.

While the aguachiles are a major draw, the menu at Mariscos El Submarino is filled with a variety of other delicious options that highlight the freshness of their ingredients. The tostadas, or crispy corn tortillas topped with various seafood preparations, are another fan favorite. The Tostada Mixta, for instance, is a classic, piled high with a mix of shrimp, octopus, fish, and avocado. Another standout is the Tostada La Makabra, which features a mix of seafood in a spicy black sauce. For a quick and satisfying bite, the tacos are a must-try. The El Gobernador Taco, filled with creamy, cheesy shrimp and grilled to perfection, is a particular highlight. The "Taco El Rey" with ribeye steak and shrimp offers a great surf-and-turf option. The restaurant also offers an array of refreshing seafood cocktails, like the classic Cóctel de Camarón, and the popular Cóctel Campechana which includes shrimp and octopus. The beverage selection is equally compelling, with fresh fruit juices, Mexican sodas, and excellent cocktails like the mango margaritas and micheladas that perfectly complement the spicy, savory dishes.

With its growing presence across the city, Mariscos El Submarino is becoming a staple for New Yorkers who appreciate high-quality Mexican seafood. The commitment to using fresh ingredients, the authentic family recipes, and the lively atmosphere make it more than just a place to eat; it's a dining experience that feels like a mini-vacation to the coast of Mexico, right here in the city. The generous portions and reasonable prices also ensure that you get great value for every dollar spent. Whether you are craving a refreshing ceviche on a hot summer day or a hearty seafood tower to share with friends, Mariscos El Submarino has something to satisfy every seafood craving. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy great food, and soak in a truly authentic and enjoyable atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

While the original Mariscos El Submarino is in Jackson Heights, the restaurant has expanded its presence to other parts of New York City, including Brooklyn. The establishment at 226 7th Ave in Brooklyn is a new outpost. It is part of the restaurant's expansion, following locations in Greenpoint and Clinton Hill. This new spot in Park Slope makes it more accessible to residents of this vibrant neighborhood and surrounding areas, providing another opportunity to enjoy their acclaimed seafood dishes without having to travel to Queens.

Services Offered

• Dine-in service is available for a full sit-down experience.
• Takeout and delivery services are offered through various platforms, although some reviews mention potential delays during busy periods.
• The menu features a wide variety of authentic Mexican seafood dishes.
• They offer a full bar with cocktails, beers, and Mexican sodas.
• Catering and special event options may be available for larger parties (check with the location for details).

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Mexican coastal cuisine specializing in fresh seafood, with recipes passed down through generations.
• The Aguachile is a standout, served in a traditional molcajete and available in multiple spicy and flavorful varieties (verde, rojo, negro, and mango habanero).
• A variety of creative and classic tacos, including the popular El Gobernador with cheesy shrimp and The Craken with octopus.
• Generous and impressive seafood towers like La Chaparrita and La Exotica, which are perfect for sharing.
• Lively and casual atmosphere with colorful, kitschy decor that adds to the fun, beachy vibe.
• Offers a covered outdoor patio at some locations, providing a perfect setting for warm-weather dining.
• Highly praised cocktails, particularly the micheladas and mango margaritas, which are a perfect complement to the spicy food.
• They have multiple locations in different neighborhoods, making their food accessible to more New Yorkers.

Contact Information

Address: 226 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA

What is worth choosing

For a first-timer at Mariscos El Submarino, the absolute must-try dish is the Aguachile. It is the core of their menu and the reason many diners become repeat customers. The Aguachile Verde is a fantastic starting point—it's refreshing, zesty, and has a vibrant heat that is sure to wake up your palate. If you're feeling adventurous and enjoy more spice, the Aguachile Negro or the Mango Habanero are excellent choices. Pair your aguachile with a side of crispy tostadas for the perfect texture contrast. Another top recommendation is the El Gobernador Taco, which is consistently praised for its creamy, cheesy, and satisfying flavor. For a more communal dining experience, the seafood towers, such as La Chaparrita, are a visually stunning and delicious choice, packed with a variety of their best seafood offerings. Don't forget to order a michelada or a mango margarita to complete the meal, as the cocktails are frequently cited as being among the best in the city. The fresh seafood, bold spices, and generous portions ensure that every choice is a good one, but these selections will give you a perfect introduction to what makes Mariscos El Submarino a true New York City gem.

Marisco El Submarino

226 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, USA