El Malecon – A Dominican Cuisine Machine

BY Led Black  (@Led_Black)

El Malecon (4141 Broadway at 175th St) is a machine. I mean that in a good way, as in El Malecon is an efficient and delicious Dominican cuisine machine. Great food, great service with a healthy measure of good old Dominican hospitality to match. What more could you ask for? In my estimation, El Malecon is pound for pound one of the best traditional Dominican restaurants in the neighborhood. They are right up there with El Lina (500 West 207th Street) and the now defunct Margot’s (3822 Broadway).

One thing about this place is that it is always packed but the waiters are experts at keeping everything moving and the wait is usually nominal. Another interesting factoid about El Malecon is that its clientele is so diverse. I am talking United Nations diverse. Whites, Blacks, Asians and other Latinos, not to mention Dominicans, are regular customers of this well-run establishment.

In all of my visits there, I can honestly say that I haven’t had a bad meal yet. On this particular day, I ordered the Pollo & Camarones Salteados, which is essentially chicken and shrimp stir-fried with peppers and onions. It was delectable as usual, as were the rice, black beans and tostones that accompanied it. I can’t forget the ice-cold Presidente that washed it all down. Speaking of Presidentes, El Malecon has an unbeatable deal of a bucket of 5 Presidentes for just $10. Another favorite off the menu is the Chofan Mixto, which is a Dominican version of Chinese fried rice with steak, shrimp, chicken and vegetables.

They also make a mean café con leche. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, you just can’t go wrong with El Malecon.

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  • De La Cruzin'
    October 22, 2010 at 11:16 am

    Love this place! It has been a while since I have been there (mostly because they are no longer 24 hours). But also, I had great memories hanging with great people in my life. I just might have to go there this weekend because of this article.

    Slick Rick

  • Izzy
    October 24, 2010 at 12:01 pm

    Great site! Thank you for showcasing all the greatness the Heights has to offer!

  • sawney bean
    September 12, 2011 at 10:36 am

    Do you know the recipe for the green garlicky sauce that they serve with their take-out roast chicken?

  • uptownco
    September 12, 2011 at 11:45 am

    Sawney Bean,
    That awesome sauce is a variation of a mojito sauce, which usually consists of garlic, olive oil, onion, cilantio and lime. By the way, thanks for the comment.

    Led

  • Mino
    February 27, 2012 at 9:22 am

    LOVE this place. Its my traditional sunday brunch place for a mangu and queso frito. 🙂

  • Orenda
    June 10, 2014 at 4:39 pm

    I sure miss my block (Academy St.) after 30 years in Seattle area. Next time I come home for a visit though, I’m going to check outEl Malecon! I’m happy that I can still buy and fry plantano out here though, for reals! :)Nice article, made my mouth water!

    • admin
      June 10, 2014 at 8:01 pm

      Thanks for the love and sorry for making your mouth water….

      Led