category: harlem

17

January 2008

The King has arrived

burgerking.jpg

I don’t know if you have, but I certainly have missed the old Taco Bell at 125th. In fact, there’s always been a noticeable dearth in the fast food options near Columbia University. But, for those that have had a hankering beyond KFC and McDonald’s, there’s a new Burger King at 3451 Broadway (around 139th St.). Yea, it’s far, but that’s the price we pay for going to Columbia. The good news is that this BK has quite a robust value menu so making the trip shouldn’t put too much of a pinch on your wallet.

03

October 2007

El Toro Partido

El Toro Partido Storefront

Location: 3431 Broadway (btw. 139th and 140th)
Hours: 11am - 2am, Everyday

Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures of the food. I got my tacos dorados and horked them down so fast I didn’t even realize I was up in Harlem on assignment for the Lion’s Den. What was the assignment? Find the best tacos within a reasonable distance of Columbia.

Well, I found them and they’re just two subway stops away. Yea, it will cost you $4 to get there and back (unless you want to walk, it’s only 20 blocks). But, this place still won’t leave your wallet feeling empty. Tacos are but $2 and ,while some entrees can go in the $8-$12 range,  they all come in serious portions. The burritos gigantes are…. quite gigante. And, the tortas are nearly big enough for two meals (at least a meal and a snack).

The rice and beans here are tasty, if a little bit bland. And, of the entrees that I have tried, they are all made quite well. The tacos, however, are the true standout. The al pastor has little chunks of pineapple.  Carnitas are rich and delicious. And, heck, even the chicken isn’t bad - just the right amount of chew while still being tender. They heap it on here and you’ll be glad each taco comes with the traditional two rounds of tortilla.

I should note that the proprietors of this little taco hole don’t speak much English. Ordering is probably done best by pointing, but the place has great pictures all over the place so you’ll never be at a loss for something to order.

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