By Abby Dupes By Abby Dupes | May 17, 2021 | Food & Drink,
The Patacón Pisao sandwich at Puyero on South Street
Still hungry after Dine Latino Restaurant Week? Here's where you can find authentic Latin cuisine in Philly.
1.Alma Del Mar
Designed by the “Fab Five” cast of Netflix’s hit series Queer Eye, this Mexican restaurant flaunts an Insta-worthy style. Upon entering this Italian Market gem, you are greeted by a bold neon sign reading “A todo lo que hagas ponle corazón,” which translates to “Put your heart into everything you do.” From one taste of its open-faced molletes sandwich, which contains a savory mix of homemade chorizo, avocado salsa and refried beans, it’s easy to tell that chef Marcos Tlacopilco applies this mantra to the entire menu. 1007 S. Ninth St.,215.644.8158, almadelmar. net
2.Bar Bombón
Tucked on the corner of 18th and Moravian streets, Rittenhouse’s favorite Latin eatery brings a twist to Old San Juan classics by transforming meat dishes into plant-based palate pleasers. From buffalo cauliflower tacos to black bean soup, every dish at Bar Bombón is created with traditional methods—think fresh-out-of-theoven corn tortillas. Top off your dinner with one of its signature La Classica margaritas, made with tequila blanco, orange liqueur and lime. 133 S. 18th St.,267.606.6612, barbombon.com
3.Puyero Venezuelan Flavor
With the refined renditions of Venezuelan street food found at Puyero, your taste buds can trek to South America without ever leaving home. From the fried sweet plantain sandwiches to the pabellón arepas stuffed with shredded beef, black beans, plantain and white cheese, the South Street spot’s menu is as sumptuous as it is authentic. For a refreshing drink, try the citrusy cilantro lemonade or quintessential Latin American drink papelón con limón. 524 S. Fourth St.,267.928.4584, puyeroflavor.com
4.Parada Maimon
In the heart of Callowhill, homestyle Dominican dishes are making an appealing appearance. Savory seafood dishes, like the sopa de marisco and octopus ceviche, pair well with casual, on-the-go options, such as the tostones and jamón y queso sandwich. Alongside these bites, you’ll find traditional American eats for a culturally blended culinary experience. 345 N. 12th St.,856.644.4583, paradamaimon.net
5.El Merkury
This location blends an ingenious mix of Central American street food and ancient Mayan ingredients—think corn, beans, chiles and mole chocolate. To spread cultural and culinary awareness of underrepresented countries, chef Sofia Deleon concocts undeniably decadent dishes, such as elote loco street corn, taquitos and tostadas. After these savory plates, you can turn to its equally appetizing dessert menu for your choice of tres leches churros, Mayan chocolate churros and traditional churro fries. 2104 Chestnut St., 267.457.5952, elmerkury.com
6.Izlas Latin Cuisine
Open for both pickup and delivery, Izlas Latin Cuisine provides a feast that feeds six people. For tonight’s dinner, you can order one of the family-pack options, such as the chuleta frita, which is composed of fried pork chops, sauteed peppers and onions—or try the make-your-own fajitas Mexicana with an assortment of sauteed bell peppers, onions, pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, mixed cheese, flour tortillas, white rice and black beans. 2725 N. American S.,267.314.5634, izlaslatin.com
7.Los Cuatro Soles
A neighborhood favorite for burritos since its 2016 opening, this family-owned restaurant serves tantalizing tacos, spicy enchiladas and crunchy nachos. Situated in South Philadelphia, the location boasts over 10 varieties of tacos, ranging from fish to chorizo, ensuring that all customers will find something to suit their tastes during Latino Restaurant Week. Still not convinced? Take a look at the eatery’s Instagram, where they post detailed daily dishes to spark viewers’ appetites. 1801 S. Chadwick St.,215.755.1125, loscuatrosolesrestaurant.com
Photography by: courtesy of Puyero Venezuelan Flavor