This Thing might be just like Mom’s … if you’re Latin that is.
With tender, fall off the bone meats and a homemade touch to the seasoned rice and beans, this fusion of Ecuadorian, Dominican, and Puerto Rican cuisine is a breath of fresh air in an overly commercialized niche.
Overlooking the plethora of taco and burrito joints in the city, a Spanish take-out south of Little Brazil is a rare find. Lunchtime brings a crowd of students and faculty from the local colleges as well as residents of the neighborhood. Easily mistaken for a recess in the wall, Latin King’s the warm welcome – bright orange walls and palm trees – give patrons an island feel. How surprising.
The food is as mixed as the heritages involved in this lunch spot. From the rice and meats to the sauces and soups, Latin Thing takes pride in the food it serves. A joint venture between three families, this spot is definitely a labor of love.
“It was my idea financed by family,” says Paul Garza, fresh out of college. Latin Thing is his trial run in the business world. Garza’s cousin, Nick Almeida spearheads the day-to-day management of the store. A full-time college student, Almeida has to be commended for running a tight shift while maintaining the integral upkeep and general press for Latin Thing.
James Litardo, uncle to both Garza and Almeida, is the head chef with years of experience under his belt.
Opened in September, 2007, Latin Thing has somehow stayed well under the radar. There’s an air of sincerity in this family business. Though young, Latin Thing has potential to grow and contend with the current dominant fast food Spanish spots. Even though seating is extremely limited, for under $10, you’re sure to have a filling meal.
Don’t let the small setting fool you. Latin Thing also caters. With a delivery area that ranges from First Avenue to Sixth and 14th Street to 42nd, this orange hole in the wall covers a lot of city ground.
The pernil, rice and maduros. I’m all about it. It’s definitely a Latin Thing.
Latin Thing
61B Lexington Avenue
(212) 213 – 2522
No. 6 to 23rd Street
“Maria Rosana Cruz wants to inform WORD readers about the affordable and quirky places around the city. All these places are accessible by subway, bus and, of course, foot transportation. They vary from incredible places to bring a date to fun things to do and see. She’s been exploring the city since high school, and has veered away from the commercial, and highlights places only true New Yorkers should know about. These are the little places, the hidden gems of the city, well off the beaten path.
The WORD’sMaria Rosana Cruz can be reached at mrcruz@hunter.cuny.edu.