Viva El Mariachi Mexican Food in Astoria
Viva El Mariachi 33-11 Broadway, Queens, NY 11106, Astoria 718-545-4039
The name says it all at this authentic eatery serving delicacies from south of the border. The food here certainly isn’t gourmet, but it is wholeheartedly a native from the land of which it hails. A few steps up from street food, Mariachi offers an impressive array of about 35 different platters, along with several traditional tacos, tortas, tostadas, tortillas and burritos- they also have burgers, but we’ll leave those to the local diners to handle. The modest establishment is open late and never seems to be really crowded. It’s convenient to either sidle up to the bar if you’re going solo or grab a table if you have company. Chatting with the locals and eating your complimentary chips while playing some cumbia on the juke box is always a good pastime before your dish arrives. The quesadilla de flor de calabaza or pumpkin flower quesadilla is an unusual find that will satisfy your hungry stomach and curious tastebuds. Three
corn tortillas stuffed with pumpkin flowers and queso blanco, mmm. The $2 soft tacos come in a variety of flavors- like cactus, beef, chicken and vegetable-peppers, onions and mushrooms. If you have a sweet tooth, skip dessert and order the piping-hot Chocolate Mexicano instead. Made from real milk and Abuelita-a true Mexican hot chocolate mix, although Nestle bought out the company a few years back. The taste is creamy and rich with a touch a cinnamon. You can also make this delicious treat at home. Abuelita and Ibarra chocolate run about $3 at Lupita Mexican Grocery (in Astoria) and make for a great winter drink. Just break off a couple triangles, mix into boiling milk and voila! Viva El Mariachi is open late and offers delivery.
One Day in Queens 
well… most likely they do have tacos al pastor. Yet, they will not taste anything like tacos al pastor in Condesa, Tepito, or anywhere else in Mexico City….
The dishes are authentically made here, yet, the ingredients might not match the flavor and taste of the ones in the heart of Mexico City.
And for us dwelling “la urbe de hierro”, their effort is appreciated and we like it for what it is…
a random authentic mexican
November 9, 2008
But do they have tacos al pastor?
Joy
November 7, 2008