Taller Cocina

- 416 W 203rd St, New York, NY 10034

In the vibrant uptown neighborhood of Inwood, Manhattan, Taller Cocina stands out as a unique and energetic culinary destination. This is not your typical New York restaurant; it’s a family-owned establishment that masterfully blends the flavors of Spanish and Latin cuisine with the comfort and familiarity of Italian-inspired dishes, especially through its highly acclaimed pizza program. Taller Cocina is defined by a winning formula: great food, a lively atmosphere, and a strong sense of community.

The name "Cocina Taller" itself suggests a culinary workshop, and the menu reflects this creative, fusion approach. While listed as a Spanish and Tapas restaurant, the core offering is a thrilling marriage of global influences, from the wood-fired brick oven Pizzettas—like the famous El Tanque 56—to classic Italian-American pastas like Penne Alla Vodka, all infused with a distinctive Latin flair. Whether you’re stopping in for a weekend brunch, a late-night meal, or a vibrant dinner experience, Taller Cocina promises a memorable time.

The vibe is a major draw. Customers often note the "Good music" and the fact that the spot is "Always crowded," suggesting a bustling social scene. The restaurant is celebrated for its live shows, often featuring Latin music, which elevates a simple dinner into a full cultural experience. From delicious appetizers like Spanish Grilled Octopus to hearty Entrees like Grilled Skirt Steak, and potent house cocktails like the signature Cocina Punch, Taller Cocina embodies the heart and soul of uptown New York.

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Taller Cocina is ideally situated in the heart of the Inwood neighborhood in Upper Manhattan, making it a local favorite and easily reachable via public transit.

Address: 416 W 203rd St, New York, NY 10034, USA

The 416 W 203rd Street address places the restaurant close to major transportation arteries that service this northern tip of Manhattan. For New York City residents, access is straightforward and efficient:

• Subway Access: The restaurant is conveniently located near the A train (express) and the 1 train (local). Patrons arriving from Midtown or Downtown can take the express A train to a station in the area, or use the 1 train to 207th Street, ensuring quick access from nearly any part of Manhattan.
• Local Travel: Being on 203rd Street, it’s a short walk from both Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, providing good connections to local bus routes and the dense residential blocks of Inwood and Washington Heights.
• Accessibility: The venue is committed to being welcoming to all, featuring a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the dining experience.

With its late operating hours (open daily until 2:00 am, according to some reports), Taller Cocina is a reliable spot for dining and entertainment late into the evening, especially convenient for those relying on late-night transit.

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Taller Cocina provides an extensive range of dining and entertainment services, making it a versatile venue for any occasion:

• Full Service Dining: Available for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner with comfortable Seating and a full Bar onsite.
• Reservations: The restaurant Accepts Reservations, which is highly recommended due to the popular evening crowds, especially when live music is featured.
• Event & Group Services: Offers Catering services for events and private parties, and provides a Party Platter option on the appetizer menu for group dining.
• Beverage Program: Features a comprehensive bar with Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Happy Hour Drinks, Hard Liquor, and Wine (by the glass and bottle). The menu includes numerous signature house cocktails and bottle service options.
• Family Amenities: Is Family-Friendly and provides High Chairs, making it a great option for dining with children.
• Convenient Ordering: Offers Takeout, Delivery, and No-Contact Delivery options for patrons who prefer to enjoy their food at home.
• Dining Setting: Provides Outdoor Seating, perfect for enjoying the vibrant Inwood atmosphere during warmer months.
• Entertainment: A major highlight is the regular Live Music, which creates a dynamic and festive environment.

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Taller Cocina has cultivated a reputation based on several key features that set it apart in the uptown Manhattan dining scene:

• The Ultimate Fusion Menu: It uniquely combines Spanish tapas and grilled entrees (like Spanish Grilled Octopus and Grilled Skirt Steak) with a robust Italian-American-Latin pizza and pasta program. This fusion of comfort food, small plates, and unique specialty dishes appeals to a broad audience.
• Signature Pizzettas: The restaurant is known for its wood-fired brick oven “pizzettas.” The El Tanque 56 and the Latin-inspired Dominicana Pizzetta (often featuring ground beef and cabbage) are highly sought-after house specialties that showcase the culinary fusion.
• Energetic Atmosphere and Live Music: The venue is famous for its vibrant crowd, good music, and regular Live Music performances. This makes it an ideal spot for a lively date night, a celebratory dinner, or a fun weekend brunch with family.
• Potent Cocktail Program: The drink menu is a standout feature, particularly the Cocina Punch (available by the glass or pitcher), which customers warn, "kicks" and is generously "loaded." The extensive selection of specialty cocktails and premium liquors ensures a high-energy bar scene.
• Late-Night Availability: With the kitchen and bar open late (until 2:00 am most days, according to some reports), Taller Cocina is an essential spot for Late-Night Food, catering to the neighborhood's energetic nocturnal rhythm.
• Crave-Worthy Comfort Food: Customer reviews often specifically praise the pasta selections, highlighting the Penne Alla Vodka and mentioning how the pasta bolognese (which may be a special or a variation of the pasta dishes) is "rich and flavorful" and "crave worthy."

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To make a reservation or inquire about catering and events, please use the contact details provided below:

Address: 416 W 203rd St, New York, NY 10034, USA

Phone: (212) 304-0860

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To fully experience the unique blend of flavor and fun that Taller Cocina offers, we recommend a few must-try items:

The Ultimate Fusion Starter: Spanish Grilled Octopus ($23.00). This classic Spanish appetizer is a perfect way to begin your meal. It demonstrates the kitchen’s expertise with authentic Iberian fare, offering a high-quality dish that elevates the dining experience.

The House Specialty: El Tanque 56 Pizzetta ($20.00). You can’t visit Taller Cocina without trying one of their signature, wood-fired pizzas. The El Tanque 56 is their most famous pie, and the Latin-infused Dominicana Pizzetta ($20.00) offers a flavorful take on comfort pizza that reflects the restaurant's unique cultural blend.

The Main Event: Grilled Skirt Steak ($30.00). A highly praised entree, the Skirt Steak—often served with a rich garlic sauce—is a fan favorite. Pair it with the Latin-inspired Tostones or the classic Cilantro-Lime Rice side dishes ($7.00 each) for a complete and satisfying meal.

The Comfort Food Must-Have: Pasta. Customers consistently rave about the pasta. The Penne Alla Vodka ($16.00) and the Carbonara ($16.00) are reliable, rich comfort food options. If available, try the often-praised bolognese or gnocchi (not explicitly listed but mentioned in reviews as delicious alternatives).

The Signature Drink: Cocina Punch (Pitcher $50.00). Given the lively, celebratory atmosphere, sharing a pitcher of the legendary Cocina Punch is highly recommended. It’s the perfect, powerful accompaniment to the live music and festive environment.

Taller Cocina

416 W 203rd St, New York, NY 10034, USA