One of the things I miss most from living back out in NY is the Dominican cuisine, so I was…read morenaturally ecstatic to find Dominican Grocery Y Deli on the stretch of Richmond between Hillcroft and Westchase where Latin businesses are seemingly everywhere. Compared to many of the Caribbean all-encompassing establishments that exist, this place is most definitely legit.
Like many family-owned places in the area, it is part convenience store and part restaurant. The dining room is deceivingly spacious, with ample seating for all sorts of groups. They are primarily a takeout joint and are especially busy during lunchtime where they offer some of the areas best hot lunches. It's a lot more quiet at night, which would be advantageous for a big group looking to go somewhere where there's plenty of room.
I'm extremely pleased with the authentic options, which include mofongo, bizcocho, sancocho, mangú, pollo guisado, yuca con mojo, arroz con gandules, locrio, and espaguetis (#1). I've only been able to sample a handful of items and am eagerly on the hunt for pastelón (#2) and am very keen on trying their version of tres leches. The pollo guisado I had was full of flavor and perfectly stewed over habichuelas and rice. My espaguestis was a tinge on the salty side, but had a nice amount of olives and the indulgent greasy finish that I would want in any pasta meal. Lastly, the mofongo was quite tasty, thought I do wish we had more chicharron in the mix.
The staff is most definitely Dominican as well. I was greeted every step of the way, followed with a "que lo que" and I appreciated the kind service. Prices are solid for the area and cash is preferred here (#3). I am so pleased an option is here and I look forward to many future meals.
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(#1) Dominican style spaghetti.
(#2) Dominican style lasagna.
(#3) Read: credit card fee.