Welcome to Cuchifritos
Cuchifritos, nestled in the heart of East Harlem, offers an authentic taste of Puerto Rican comfort food. Celebrating Latin American flavors, this casual eatery serves a delightful array of frituras such as alcapurrias, bacalaitos, and heaping portions of succulent pernil. The menu caters to all, featuring numerous vegetarian options. Cuchifritos is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary gathering place, perfect for lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings. With its lively atmosphere, outdoor seating, and welcoming vibe for families and groups alike, it’s a quintessential spot to indulge in hearty, soul-satisfying dishes that evoke the warmth of home.
- 168 E 116th St New York, NY 10029 United States Hotline: (212) 876-4846
Welcome to Cuchifritos, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of New York City, specifically at 168 E 116th St. This delightful eatery specializes in the hearty and flavorful essence of Puerto Rican comfort food, embracing the rich traditions of Latin American cuisine.
At Cuchifritos, every dish tells a story, brimming with vibrant flavors and nostalgic connections to the island’s culinary heritage. The menu features an array of delectable frituras that form the foundation of Puerto Rican fare:
- Alcapurrias: Savor the meat-filled cassava that delivers a delightful crunch.
- Bacalaitos: These cod fish fritters are crispy and bursting with flavor.
- Papa Rellena: Enjoy the meat-filled potatoes that offer warmth and comfort.
- Pasteles: Choose from traditional meat or chicken pasteles, each wrapped in a blanket of plantain goodness.
Moreover, Cuchifritos takes pride in its offerings for every palate, including a plethora of vegetarian options and dishes such as pastelitos filled with cheese or meat, and platanos served plain. Of particular note is the Orden Completa, which bundles up all the delicious cuts of meat served alongside flavorful green bananas for a complete experience that showcases the restaurant's authentic roots.
These hearty plates are perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a late-night bite after a night on the town. Cuchifritos caters to various dining preferences with its delivery and takeout options, as well as inviting outdoor seating where you can relish your meal in the fresh air.
Additionally, the restaurant embodies a friendly and casual atmosphere, making it ideal for groups and families. You can kick back and enjoy happy hour specials while soaking up the vibrant ambiance, marked by moderate noise and the comforting aroma of frying delicacies.
Cuchifritos also accepts a variety of payment methods, including the latest in digital options like Apple Pay and cryptocurrency, ensuring a smooth dining experience without missing a beat.
In essence, Cuchifritos captures the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine and serves it up with passion and flair. As you delve into their menu, prepare for a flavor journey that evokes warmth and a sense of home, making it a must-visit for both locals and food enthusiasts alike in New York.

Excellent and authentic! I have been coming here for many, many, years, and it's the family go to place for the best Cuchifritos!

Chuchifritos is one of those neighborhood institutions that will never go away. I've been going here since I was a kid. When I'm in the area, this is one of the places I have to stop at while visiting family in the area. You walk up and you start seeing all the good fried food at the window front of the of the restaurant. See all the chicken pastelitos, relleno de papas , alcapurrias, chicharron etc all goodness frituras they have to offer. Always always get the rice and beans you can not get anything without it it's a must, you can ask them to put some mojo de ajo (garlic sauce) on just about anything you want or on the side I promise you its succulent. My go to meal is always the rotisserie chicken-white rice and beans and always sided with some from fried alcapurrias or pastelitos. They also have fish, pork chops, blood sausage, tostones, yuca & passionfruit drinks. The place is clean and the service is friendly this is a more to go spot so pull up and take out and make sure you tip the girls maybe they'll put a little more Mojo sauce on your Chicharons This place is east of Harlem on 116th street if you're coming by train take the 6 line stop to 116 either way north or south bound.

The Spanish food here has consistently been excellent since my childhood. This family-run establishment is incredibly welcoming and supportive of the neighborhood. On September 7, 2024, I visited with my cousin, who hadn't been back to Harlem since 2000. We had a wonderful time together, enjoying delicious food and spending quality time with our aunt at her home for dinner and a movie. It was a memorable and enjoyable experience.

I went to cuchifritos a week ago, and I loved the mofongo made with roasted pork with beef sauce on the side to pour over the Mofongo, it came with a salad, more roasted pork on the side, plantain chips. It was a great portion , and it was delicious, must try it's ,better than cocotazo restaurant that's one block alway from them en la maqueta , portion ,prices and tastes. Friendly staff, and clean. Go there you won't regret it.