Pollo Joa

- 228 Sherman Ave, New York, NY 10034

Pollo Joa is more than just a restaurant; it is a beloved culinary landmark in the heart of Upper Manhattan, specifically in the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood of Washington Heights, NYC. As a dedicated Chicken Restaurant, Pollo Joa’s reputation is built on serving one of the most cherished staples of Dominican cuisine: Pica Pollo. For many New Yorkers, particularly those in the 212 area code, Pollo Joa provides an authentic, flavorful taste of the Dominican Republic without ever leaving the city.

Pica Pollo is the star of the show here—a Dominican-style fried chicken that distinguishes itself through meticulous preparation. The chicken pieces are marinated in a flavorful blend of traditional Latin ingredients, often including garlic, lime, Dominican oregano, and sazón, resulting in a deep flavor that permeates the meat. It is then floured and fried to a perfect, crispy golden brown, typically cut into easy-to-handle pieces ("picar" means to nibble or pick at). It is the ultimate expression of Comfort food and a satisfying Quick bite.

While Pica Pollo is the anchor, Pollo Joa is also renowned for its incredibly deep and customizable menu of Latin sandwiches and sides, catering to every appetite, whether you are stopping by for a Lunch break or looking for a generous meal for Solo dining. The diverse offerings of sandwiches, featuring classic Dominican proteins and cheese combinations, ensure that Pollo Joa serves as an essential neighborhood spot. The dedication to authentic flavors and the palpable sense of community that patrons describe solidifies Pollo Joa’s status as a genuine slice of the Caribbean experience right here in New York City. The consistently positive reviews highlight the friendly service and delicious food, making it a highly recommended destination for authentic Dominican fare.

The menu, detailed and extensive, moves beyond simple chicken and into a world of traditional Latin specialties and beverages, including freshly prepared Jugo Naturales (Natural Juices) and various appetizers like Quipes and Empanadas. The commitment to using traditional ingredients and preparation methods is evident in every dish, offering a quality and authenticity that appeals to both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the cuisine. Pollo Joa expertly balances the casual, friendly vibe of a local eatery with the serious quality of its cooking, guaranteeing a memorable meal.

The restaurant also caters brilliantly to larger groups and families with its special Pica Pollo packs, offering up to 40 pieces of their legendary fried chicken. This focus on both individual and group dining needs makes it a versatile choice for any occasion in the bustling urban environment.

Pollo Joa is ideally situated at 228 Sherman Ave, New York, NY 10034, USA. This location places it firmly in the Upper Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights, bordering Inwood—an area celebrated for its deep Dominican heritage and vibrant street life. The 10034 ZIP code is highly recognizable as a hub for Caribbean and Latin culture in Manhattan.

As a neighborhood staple, Pollo Joa is easily accessible via public transportation, being a short distance from major subway lines that serve Upper Manhattan, making it simple for local residents and those commuting to the area to reach. While it offers a welcoming space for Dine-in service with a Casual atmosphere, its primary function as a community food provider means it is highly optimized for Takeout service. This allows busy New Yorkers to quickly pick up their orders or utilize the convenient delivery options often available through various third-party apps, ensuring that this delicious Comfort food is never far from reach. The bustling location on Sherman Avenue means it’s integrated into the daily routine of the neighborhood, serving as a reliable and familiar dining option for all.

Pollo Joa provides a streamlined and comprehensive set of services focused on delivering convenience and value to the local New York clientele. The menu structure and service options are specifically designed to meet the demands of fast-paced urban life while ensuring a quality dining experience.

• Takeout Service: The primary service, ensuring quick and efficient pickup for customers who wish to enjoy their authentic Dominican meal at home or on the go.

• Dine-in Service: Available for patrons who prefer to enjoy their meal in the restaurant’s comfortable, Casual atmosphere, perfect for a spontaneous Lunch or meeting up with friends.

• Individual and Family Pica Pollo Packs: Offering sizes ranging from the 2-Piece Quick Bite ($6.00) up to massive 40 Pieces And 2 Liters Soda combo ($135.00), making it the perfect solution for feeding any size group, from Solo dining to large family gatherings or parties.

• Specialty Sandwiches and Clubs: An expansive sandwich menu featuring customizable options like the Completo De Pollo and specialty items like the Mega Payán Club and Sándwich Cubano, offering a filling and distinct Latin American-style meal.

• Fresh Beverages: A full array of natural, homemade juices and smoothies (Jugos y Batidos) including popular Caribbean flavors like Chinola (Passion Fruit), Guanábana (Soursop), and Mango, providing a refreshing accompaniment to the rich, fried food.

What truly sets Pollo Joa apart and makes it an Inwood/Washington Heights favorite is the unique quality and extensive variety of its menu, focusing on authentic Dominican flavors and great value.

• Authentic Dominican Pica Pollo: The star dish, described by customers as tasting like a “slice of the Dominican Republic,” is seasoned with a traditional Dominican flavor profile, distinguishing it from conventional American fried chicken. The preparation of this dish is a culinary highlight.

• Pechurinas (Chicken Tenders): Highly praised by customers as a “usual combo,” these chicken tenders, served with sides like French Fries or Tostones, are a key staple for those seeking boneless options.

• Wasakaka Sauce: A must-try feature mentioned in customer reviews, the presence of traditional Wasakaka (a garlicky, herbal Dominican vinaigrette) available for dipping, adds an essential layer of authenticity and flavor to the fried chicken and sides.

• Extensive Sandwich Customization: The menu features over six categories of sandwiches, allowing diners to choose combinations of Pollo (Chicken), Pierna (Pork Leg), Jamón (Ham), Salami, or Pavo (Turkey) with a choice of popular Latin cheeses: Cheddar, Mozzarella, Danés, and Gouda.

• Unique Dominican Sides and Appetizers: Beyond the standard fries, the menu boasts traditional Latin appetizers such as Quipes, Empanadas, Bollito De Yuca (Cassava Roll), and the essential side of Servicio De Tostones (Fried Green Plantains), reinforcing the eatery’s cultural authenticity.

• Vast Selection of Natural Juices: The offerings of fresh juices like Chinola, Guayaba, Fresa, and Tamarindo are a significant highlight, providing a healthier and refreshing counterpoint to the fried food and differentiating Pollo Joa from typical fast-food establishments.

• Group Value: The inclusion of large group packages, such as the 30 Pieces Y Soda De 2 Litros combo, provides fantastic catering value for local New York families and events.

To place an order for Takeout or inquire about the menu, Pollo Joa can be reached using the following information:

Address:228 Sherman Ave, New York, NY 10034, USA

Phone Numbers:(212) 544-2727+1 212-544-2727

For first-time visitors or longtime fans looking for the best that Pollo Joa has to offer, the choice should center on the dishes that define its reputation as an authentic Dominican Chicken Restaurant in New York City.

The absolute must-try item is the signature Pica Pollo. To fully appreciate the authentic experience, order a Pica Chicken Special (start with the 4 Piezas or 5 Piezas combo for an individual meal) and be sure to pair it with a Servicio De Tostones (fried green plantains) instead of standard fries, and remember to ask for the Wasakaka sauce on the side for that essential garlicky, tangy flavor boost. The Pechurina (Chicken Tenders) is also a strong choice, particularly for those who prefer boneless chicken, and is cited by regular customers as a reliable combo.

For a substantial sandwich experience, consider the Completo De Pollo or the Payán Pollo Club, which offer layers of flavor and satisfying portions. These sandwiches are built around the restaurant’s excellent chicken and other fresh ingredients.

Finally, no visit is complete without one of the Jugos y Batidos (Juices and Smoothies). The fruit juices are a hallmark of Latin dining and provide a refreshing, natural balance to the fried dishes. The Chinola (Passion Fruit) and Mango juices are classic, vibrant choices highly recommended for their authentic, fresh taste.

Pollo Joa’s strength lies in its ability to consistently deliver genuine, flavorful Dominican comfort food with the generous portions and friendly service that New Yorkers appreciate, making it a reliable and celebrated institution in the Washington Heights community.

Pollo Joa

228 Sherman Ave, New York, NY 10034, USA