The B’aluk’s Cravings

- 2268 W 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11223

Welcome to a unique culinary experience right here in New York City! For Brooklyn locals and New Yorkers seeking authentic, delicious, and comforting Latin cuisine, it's time to discover The B’aluk’s Cravings. Nestled in the heart of Gravesend, this takeout restaurant specializes in bringing the vibrant, hearty flavors of Guatemala to your table. If you've been looking to expand your palate beyond the usual options, or if you already have a craving for genuine Guatemalan fare, this local gem is a must-visit. It’s more than just a quick bite; it’s a taste of home for some and an exciting discovery for others, offering a casual and friendly atmosphere with food that consistently earns high praise from those who know the cuisine best.

The B’aluk’s Cravings is dedicated to serving up dishes that are considered true comfort food—the kind of meals that satisfy and warm you up, perfect for a busy day in the city. The menu features staples from Guatemalan cuisine, including signature items that are hard to find elsewhere, making it a distinctive and valuable addition to the Brooklyn food scene. From stuffed plantains to hearty steaks and the legendary Guatemalan hot dog, this establishment is poised to become your new favorite spot for lunch, dinner, or a quick, flavorful refuel.

A standout feature on the menu is the Shucos, which is the Guatemalan take on the classic hot dog. The name “Shuco” amusingly translates to “dirty,” a slang term referring to the generous and chaotic piling of delicious toppings that transform a simple hot dog into a culinary masterpiece. Unlike a typical American hot dog, a Shuco is elevated with ingredients like guacamole, various sausages (like longaniza or chorizo), and a medley of sauces, creating a complex and satisfying street-food experience. The B’aluk's Cravings offers several varieties, including the Mr. Res (likely a beef-focused version), Picadely, Estilo Yankee, Terminator, Long Island, and the Chorihouse, each priced affordably between $10.00 and $15.00.

Another authentic delicacy you can find here is the Paches. If you've never had a Paches, one customer described it as being "kind of like a tamale," which is a good starting point for a New York local. However, Paches are a unique Guatemalan variant, traditionally made with a mashed potato-based dough instead of corn masa, often mixed with a savory tomato-based sauce called recado and wrapped in banana leaves. This potato-based tamale is a regional specialty, especially popular in Guatemala's potato-rich areas, and is a deeply satisfying, hearty meal. Hearing from a New Yorker who loved the paches confirms that this dish is a standout and well worth trying if you are looking for authentic, savory Guatemalan flavor.

The emphasis on authenticity is not just a marketing point. A review from a native Guatemalan visitor confirms the quality: "I'm actually from Guatemala and I was visiting New York... I craved food from home and I was disappointed! The owner is from Guatemala and she is extremely skilled in what she does! My mom still top but this is pretty close!" This high praise from a discerning palate underscores the restaurant's commitment to genuine, high-quality Guatemalan cooking.

Location and Accessibility

The B’aluk’s Cravings is conveniently situated in the Gravesend neighborhood of Brooklyn, making it an accessible spot for many South Brooklyn residents. The address is 2268 W 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA. While the immediate area may be more residential, its location in Brooklyn allows for easy access via car or local transportation. For New Yorkers relying on public transit, the restaurant is located within reasonable proximity to several key subway lines, including the F and N trains, which serve the Gravesend area. We always recommend checking a reliable NYC transit map or app for the most direct route from your specific starting point. Being located in a vibrant part of Brooklyn, it is easy to pair a visit to The B’aluk’s Cravings with other local errands or excursions.

Services Offered

The B’aluk’s Cravings is structured primarily as a takeout restaurant, but it also offers a variety of service options to meet the needs of a fast-paced New York lifestyle. Whether you prefer to grab your meal and go, have it delivered, or sit down for a quick lunch, they have you covered.

The services available include:

• Takeout (Perfect for grabbing a meal on your way home)
• Delivery (Conveniently bringing the flavors of Guatemala right to your door)
• Curbside Pickup (A great way to get your order without leaving your car)
• Dine-in (For those who prefer a casual, quick lunch or dinner on-site)

Features / Highlights

What sets The B’aluk’s Cravings apart in the competitive NYC dining landscape are its authentic menu and user-friendly features, catering specifically to the local community.

• Authentic Guatemalan Cuisine: Specializing in genuine Guatemalan recipes, verified by native patrons as being nearly as good as home-cooked meals.
• Comfort Food and Quick Bites: The menu is packed with satisfying, hearty meals ideal for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.
• Signature Dishes: Must-try items include the Shucos (Guatemalan hot dogs) and Paches (potato tamales).
• Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant maintains a casual vibe and is popular among locals for solo dining.
• Flexible Payments: The establishment accepts modern payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy.
• Diverse Menu: Beyond the signature items, the menu includes favorites like Rellenitos (Stuffed Plantain), Pupusas, Tacos, Churrasquito Chapín (Chapin Skirt Steak), and refreshing Aguas Frescas.

Contact Information

Ready to place an order or just need more information? Here is how you can connect with The B’aluk’s Cravings:

Address: 2268 W 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Phone: (347) 782-7043

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers eager to experience a true culinary adventure, The B’aluk’s Cravings is an exceptional choice. The unique offering of Guatemalan street food and comfort classics—particularly the Shucos and Paches—provides a much-needed break from the typical Latin or general takeout options in the area. The fact that the restaurant is "Popular for Lunch" and "Solo dining" indicates that it is an efficient, reliable, and friendly place to grab a satisfying mid-day meal. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or ordering a full dinner spread to share, the commitment to authentic, flavorful comfort food is evident in every dish. The casual, welcoming environment and dedication to high-quality, traditional recipes make The B’aluk’s Cravings a standout spot in Brooklyn’s diverse food landscape, especially for anyone searching for a genuine taste of Guatemala without leaving New York. Do yourself a favor and try the paches; you won't be disappointed by this flavorful, potato-based tamale sensation.

The B’aluk’s Cravings

2268 W 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA