Iyra Tarrodaychik
Our family has only had wonderful experiences at El Nica. Armando is the soulful chef of El Nica and his food is so flavorful,fresh and perfectly cooked- it truly comforts your soul. Armando recently catered a dinner party for our family and friends. He went above and beyond for us with set up, food and beverages. During our consultation Armando pleasantly explained our options and worked with us effortlessly. We felt his care completely and had such peace of mind. He set up tables and chairs and decorations, we had nothing to worry about.
We ordered deconstructed sample platters that came with maduros, carne asada, bbq chicken, two cabbage slaws, tostones, fried cheese and pulled pork and they were so delicious. We also ordered his guacamole and it’s the best I’ve EVER had. EVERYONE was so impressed with Armando’s food. I asked Armando who taught him how to cook and he said his Mom. I told him that his Mom would be so proud of him. His food and service all come from his heart. We are so grateful to him.
… moreMiramar Lee Choy
El Nica is inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall and took over the space where Himalayan dumplings used to be. We came here to try Nicaraguan food and overall really enjoyed it.
Highlight: Vigaron. Crunchy slaw, warm shredded pork, crispy pork rinds.
… moreB. Astorga
Went there a Sunday afternoon with my husband. The closest Nicaraguan restaurant to NYC I’ve been able to find and I’m glad it was worth traveling to. We ordered carne asada and cacao drink. Both were delicious. We loved it so much we essentially inhaled our food. Definitely recommend.
… moreStephanie
Absolutely delicious! Everything was so well-seasoned! The sauce on the pollo ala plancha was very good, slightly spicy. The steak was juicy and had lots of flavor. AND the quesillo was reminiscent of quesillo I had as a child in Miami. 5/5 highly recommend! Nicas come out!
… moreAlex C
Hands down the best Latin food I’ve had to date. Everything was done perfectly; even the fritters which I don’t typically even like! I got the platter for 2, the rice pudding, and the tamarind juice. All of it was perfect, I have no suggestions for improvement. Even the coleslaw, which most places overlook, was perfect – fresh & flavorful. The rice & beans as well as all the meat were fresh & moist – I hate when it’s dried out & you can tell it’s been sitting there all day! The gentleman who works the booth is prompt & efficient – we watched him flying around getting everything done, and I really have to commend him on how consistently amazing the food is. This is one of the busiest food stalls in the food hall, and its 5* rating is well deserved!
… moreCristi Zuniga
So exciting to have a Nicaraguan place in NY!! It was so worth the travel and make a day trip out! The reminded me of home, recommend ordering the nacatamales before had so you can pick up the last Sunday.
… moreDwight Kenneth
No frills joint with authentic Central American food! This place is the BOMB. Don’t have to say much. Go check it out for ya selves . Anything on the menu is great, service is quick, prices are a little higher than expected , but it’s a hidden gem
… morekeir wynn
I loved the food. My family is from Nicaragua, and everyone thought the food was delicious. Will definitely be coming back again.
… moreAngela Morel
Amazing !!!!!! You MUST go up to Beacon and give it a try! It’s an authentic experience, quick and friendly service. Typical dishes from Nicaragua are spot on. The quesillo had a twist to it and I loved it. Continue the great work.
… moreJustin DeMuro
Absolutely phenomenal. Really nice folks cooking the food, we had a friendly chat then I ordered the Carne Asada, which they told me was their signature dish BONUS yes I got a pic for y’all don’t worry. But you’ll need more than that to appreciate it fully. Go there. Get this. Or whatever they have. SO GOOD. Every single item on the dish tastes phenomenal. Very glad we found this little food hall. Shout out to Ciao Chow too.
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