ECUADOR Eat the World NYC Review: As you might expect if you have some knowledge of Spanish, a picantería is traditionally a place that serves spicy foods. While the term is more commonly associated with Peru than Ecuador, in New York City, it seems to refer specifically to establishments within the Ecuadorian community. Here, many of these picanterías also open for dinner, serving as a gathering spot—in particular, this one in Jackson Heights has piqued my curiosity for some time.
From evening until late into the night, the sounds of a jukebox can be heard from outside, creating a lively atmosphere. Groups of mostly (if not exclusively) male friends gather here to share buckets of beer and...
I can’t believe no one has reviewed this place in years! I heard great things from some neighbors about this cozy, small restaurant and decided to try takeout. We ordered the Bandera, a combination plate of their best dishes, and the Bandeja Campesina—and both exceeded our expectations! The Bandera is fantastic, with every element cooked to perfection. It features chivo guisado and guatita served over rice, accompanied by a fresh, juicy shrimp ceviche and a wedge of avocado. Guatita is a stewed tripe dish, similar to Peruvian Cau Cau but heartier and incredibly comforting. The chivo guisado stands out with generous, tender goat pieces braised in a rich red sauce. The shrimp ceviche is sweet...
I have visited Picanteria El Austro twice and will not be coming back. During my first visit, several items I ordered were unavailable despite being listed outside. My cousin ordered stewed tuna with onions but found very little fish in the dish. Today, I tried a traditional Good Friday soup that I know well, but it was completely flavorless. It’s supposed to contain cod, yet there was a piece full of fishbones at the bottom. The beans were overcooked to the point of being unrecognizable, and there were noodles in the soup, which is unusual for this dish. As someone who is gluten-free, I couldn’t finish it, and overall, the taste was disappointing.
I believe the owners are from Quito Ecuador or by there regardless the food is on point. Price per person: $10–20 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Cazuela Mixta, Guatita
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Avoid this restaurant. The food is awful and excessively salty. It's hard to believe how unhealthy the dishes are. Unless you want to risk developing diabetes, steer clear of this place.
Delicious Ecuadorian food with authentic Quito flavors! My favorite dish is the guatita. Thank you! Food: 5/5
Lunch specials are $10 and include soup and main plate. Read the board to see what's available for the day
This is a fantastic restaurant with excellent food—truly the best Ecuadorian cuisine you can find!
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This place offers $4 beers and has an amazing atmosphere for a hidden Ecuadorian gem.
The best dishes are the fried fish—trout or snapper—the absolute best.
35. Pargo Rojo Marinado Con Mariscos Mixtos, Arroz Y Yuca Frita 35. Marinated Red Snapper With Mixed Seafood, Rice And Fried Yucca
42. Tallarín Saltado De Mariscos 42. Fried Spaghetti With Seafood
25. Cazuela De Camarón 25. Sautéed Seraped Plantain With Shrimp
43. Tallarín Saltado De Camarón 43. Fried Spaghetti With Shrimp
24. Cazuela De Pescado 24. Sautéed Seraped Plantain With Fish
26. Cazuela Mixta 26. Mixed Sautéed Seraped Plantain
29. Encebollado De Pescado 29. Fish With Cassava
41. Lomito Salteado 41. Pieces Of Meat With Rice
30. Encebollado Mixto 30. Mixed Onion Fish
37. Chuleta Apanada 37. Breaded Pork Chop
