Viña Del Mar

- 89-52 146th St, Jamaica, NY 11435

Discovering a true neighborhood gem in a bustling city like New York is always a treat, and in Jamaica, Queens, one such treasure is Viña Del Mar. Nestled just a short distance from the area's key transit hubs and residential streets, this authentic dining spot offers New Yorkers a genuine taste of Salvadoran and broader Latin American cuisine. Forget the hustle of Manhattan for a moment and step into a cozy, casual environment where the focus is firmly on delivering delicious, homemade comfort food that satisfies the soul.

Viña Del Mar stands out by specializing in the flavors of El Salvador, a culinary tradition that is highly cherished in New York City, particularly in Queens. The undisputed star of Salvadoran cuisine, and a highlight on the menu here, is the renowned pupusa. These thick, hand-made corn tortillas are stuffed with savory fillings and griddled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey center. However, the menu at Viña Del Mar offers much more than just this staple, providing a comprehensive and authentic culinary journey through hearty Latin American dishes.

This restaurant appeals to a wide variety of diners—from locals seeking a quick, flavorful bite to solo travelers and families looking for a friendly, unpretentious dining experience. Known for its generous portions, high quality, and incredibly reasonable pricing, it’s a go-to spot for those who appreciate authentic, home-style cooking. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and often described as homey, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a hearty meal at any time of day.

For New Yorkers who value flavorful, authentic meals that feel lovingly prepared, Viña Del Mar offers an essential dining experience in Queens. Its commitment to traditional recipes and warm customer service makes it a standout choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Location and Accessibility

Viña Del Mar is conveniently situated in the heart of Jamaica, Queens, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that serves as a major transportation hub for the borough. The restaurant’s address places it in an easily accessible location for both local residents and travelers passing through the area, especially those utilizing the nearby major transit options.

The specific location is:

89-52 146th St, Jamaica, NY 11435, USA

While the restaurant itself is described as small and quaint, its Jamaica address puts it within a community rich with cultural diversity, including a strong presence of Latin American influences. This location ensures that the authentic Salvadoran flavors are perfectly placed within a community that appreciates and seeks out this kind of genuine regional cooking.

The dining space, although intimate, is welcoming. Customer feedback indicates that the staff are prompt and friendly, ensuring that even when tables are limited, the service remains excellent. Accessibility is generally straightforward, being located on a major thoroughfare within the neighborhood.

Services Offered

Viña Del Mar serves a comprehensive menu covering all three main meals of the day, with options available for various dining preferences, including quick meals and more substantial, sit-down dinners. The services and dining options available include:

• Dining Options: The restaurant offers seating for those who wish to enjoy their meal on-site, including options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner service, making it suitable for any time of day.
• Takeout Service: Customers can conveniently order their favorite Salvadoran comfort food to take home or enjoy on the go.
• Table Service: The establishment provides traditional table service, ensuring a pleasant and relaxed dining experience.
• Children Welcome: The environment is family-friendly, and it is a good location for dining with kids.
• Menu Offerings: The full menu focuses on authentic Latin American dishes, with specialized sections for classic Salvadoran dishes.

Menu Highlights Include:

• Authentic Breakfast Options (Desayuno): Starting the day right with traditional fare like Platano Con Crema (Plantain with Cream) for $3.00, or the hearty Frijoles, Huevos Rancheros y Crema (Beans, Ranch-Style Eggs, and Cream) for $7.50.
• Homemade Soups (Sopas): Featuring nourishing, large-portion options such as Sopa de Mariscos (Seafood Soup) at $13.00 and Sopa de Gallina (Chicken Soup) at $9.00.
• Signature Pupusas: The celebrated Salvadoran dish is offered in classic varieties like Revueltos (Pork Rind, Beans, and Cheese mix) for $2.00 and Queso con Loroco (Cheese with Loroco Flower) for $1.75.
• House Specialties (Pollo): Main courses include Pollo Guisado con Arroz y Ensalada (Stewed Chicken with Rice and Salad) for $7.50 and Pollo Asado con Arroz y Ensalada (Grilled Chicken with Rice and Salad) for $8.00.
• House Specialties (Carnes): Hearty meat dishes such as Chuleta Encebollado Arroz, Frijol y Queso (Pork Chop with Onions, Rice, Beans, and Cheese) for $11.00 and Bistec Encebollado Casamiento y Ensalada (Steak with Onions, Mixed Rice and Beans, and Salad) for $12.00.

Features / Highlights

Viña Del Mar is known for a distinct set of features that contribute to its popularity and reputation as a reliable spot for quality Latin American food in Queens. These elements define the experience for locals and visitors alike:

• Salvadoran Cuisine Focus: The restaurant’s specialty is genuine Salvadoran food, ensuring traditional flavors and authentic preparation methods, with the pupusas being a particular draw.
• Great Coffee: A specific highlight noted by customers is the quality of the coffee, making it an excellent stop for a morning brew or an after-meal drink.
• Comfort Food Menu: The entire menu is centered on 'comfort food,' offering satisfying, rich, and flavorful dishes that are perfect for a hearty meal.
• Affordable Pricing: The menu features remarkably reasonable prices, allowing diners to enjoy a substantial, high-quality meal without breaking the bank. A reviewer noted they were able to share a full breakfast and extra pupusas for under $20.
• Fresh and Home-Made Taste: Customer feedback consistently praises the food for tasting fresh and truly 'home-made,' suggesting a high standard of kitchen preparation.
• Flexible Dining for All Meals: It is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, demonstrating its versatility as an all-day dining spot.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Friendliness: The menu structure, particularly the pupusa offerings and traditional sides like plantains and beans, makes it easy for vegetarians to find satisfying options.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant’s interior is casual and cozy, offering a relaxed setting perfect for a quick bite or a laid-back meal.
• Solo Dining Popularity: The comfortable and welcoming environment makes it a popular choice for individuals dining alone.
• Cash-Only Policy: It is important for visitors to note that Viña Del Mar is a cash-only establishment for payments.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about the menu, here is the essential contact information for Viña Del Mar:

Address:

89-52 146th St, Jamaica, NY 11435, USA

Phone:

(718) 206-9535

Mobile Phone:

+1 718-206-9535

What is Worth Choosing

Viña Del Mar is truly worth choosing for anyone in the New York area—especially in Queens—seeking authentic, satisfying, and affordable Latin American cuisine. Its primary value proposition lies in the genuine flavor and home-style execution of its dishes, making it feel less like a commercial eatery and more like dining in a family kitchen.

The core of the menu, the Pupusas, are an absolute must-try. The 'Revueltos' (Pork Rind, Beans, and Cheese) offers the classic, rich combination of savory flavors, while the 'Queso con Loroco' introduces the unique, subtly floral taste of the loroco flower, a distinct and traditional Salvadoran delicacy that is hard to find done right elsewhere in the city. The incredible value of the pupusas, priced at or under $2.00, makes it an ideal spot for a quick, filling snack or a budget-friendly lunch.

Beyond the famous stuffed tortillas, the main plates offer tremendous value and flavor. The Chuleta Encebollado (Pork Chop with Onions) and the Bistec Encebollado (Steak with Onions) are generous, fulfilling plates that embody the spirit of Latin American comfort food—flavorful, protein-heavy, and served with traditional sides like rice, beans, and salad. These house specialties are perfect for a substantial lunch or dinner.

Furthermore, the customer experience is a significant draw. Patrons consistently highlight the excellent customer service, describing the staff as friendly, courteous, and prompt. This warm atmosphere complements the cozy, casual setting, enhancing the overall dining pleasure. For those passing through Jamaica, Queens, or local New Yorkers eager to explore authentic Central American flavors, Viña Del Mar promises a delicious, satisfying, and genuinely welcoming experience. Just remember to bring cash to fully enjoy all the culinary delights, including their praised coffee and various refrescos!

The combination of a casual, welcoming atmosphere, top-notch customer service, and a menu bursting with authentic, budget-friendly Salvadoran comfort food—especially the beloved pupusas—solidifies Viña Del Mar's status as a necessary stop on any Queens food tour. It’s a place where every meal feels like a true taste of home, regardless of where your home might be.

Viña Del Mar

89-52 146th St, Jamaica, NY 11435, USA