Mofongo All-Stars & Empanada Empresses:
NYC's Latin Royalty and their best tasting BFF

Mofongo All-Stars & Empanada Empresses:<br>  NYC's Latin Royalty and their best tasting BFF
Laura Dal Poggetto
By Laura Dal Poggetto

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and its Latin communities bring a vibrant energy and a world of flavor to the table. From ​​chipotle-marinated chicken tacos with beautiful chiles and Mexican roots shining through to perfectly crafted Puerto Rican mofongo (deep-fried, mashed green plantains) to, Peruvian ceviche (fresh seafood cured in citrusy goodness), Latin restaurants across the five boroughs serve up a taste of tradition alongside innovative takes on classic dishes.

Latin restaurants in New York are not just about the food, they're hubs where Latino communities come together to celebrate their heritage and share the warmth of their culture with everyone who walks through the door.

And some of them are part of the PepsiCo Juntos Crecemos platform, a program dedicated to helping Hispanic businesses thrive. From introducing resources that can secure funding to streamline operations, Juntos Crecemos is there to give these businesses the tools they need to succeed and invest in the future, one delicious bite at a time.

In the last few years, the love and growth of Latin restaurants has become quite notorious. This isn't “just because”, but rather a reflection of the growing demand for Latin cuisine. Adventurous eaters and those with Latin roots alike are fueling a culinary wave, turning New York City into a haven for every palette. 

So, grab your appetite and get ready to explore the explosion of Latin taste sensations happening in the Big Apple on New York’s episodes of Talking Sabor with Chef Aarón Sánchez and his two special guests, trailblazing musicians and artists Cyn Santana and Justin Quiles.

El Valle Típico

Craving a taste of authentic Dominican cuisine? Look no further than El Valle Típico. Run by Rafael and Estela, this warm and inviting spot serves up all your favorites, like the hearty "sancocho" stew, a flavorful mix of meats and vegetables, a Camarofongo with shrimps and fried mashed plantains, or the ever-popular Pescado Bocachica (Fried Red Snapper). Their portions are generous  and the atmosphere is pure Dominican charm.

Claudy’s Kitchen

For a slice of Perú in the heart of the Bronx, head to Claudy’s Kitchen. It's the first restaurant in the area to receive a MICHELIN’s® Bib Gourmand designation.

This colorful restaurant offers a taste of the sea with dishes like their Ceviche made with sea bass marinated in lemon juice and leche de tigre, red onions, and toasted corn. And of course, it wouldn’t be a full Peruvian cuisine experience without some Pollo a la Brasa, right? Then you must try Chef Claudia’s take on it! 

If you want to work your appetite up, take a bite of their Yucas Fritas or their Papas a la Huancaína as appetizers. You won’t regret it! 

La Cueva Fonda

Embark on a culinary adventure to Mexico at La Cueva Fonda. This cozy spot puts a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. Think creative tacos with unexpected fillings such as their Tlayuda Jalapeña that includes cecina cured meat, sizzling fajitas cooked to perfection, and Pancita de Res, a beef belly soup that takes a spicy turn with some chiles de árbol.

Sonora Fusion

Get ready for a flavor explosion at Sonora Fusion! Commanded by renowned Chef Palomino, this innovative restaurant blends the best of Latin American cuisine but also features influences from Palomino’s childhood in Bogotá, Colombia, creating dishes that are both familiar and exciting. From eggplant empanadas with a chocolate vinaigrette to their Peruvian ceviche with a touch of mango and their signature Paella with Colombian chorizo, Sonora offers a unique dining experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of New York's Latin scene with a refreshing Pepsi® Zero Sugar, your perfect partner in culinary deliciousness with sweet bubbles that cut through the richness of cheeses and beans, caramel notes that complement the smoky warmth of chiles, tomatoes, and cumin  and a refreshing taste that balances out the complex fragrant herbs often found in Latin cuisine.