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New York

El Cocotero was a cherished Venezuelan restaurant in Chelsea, New York, known for its authentic cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Despite its closure in 2021 due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it left a lasting impression on the community.

Discovering El Cocotero: A Venezuelan Gem in Chelsea New York City 

Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, New York City, El Cocotero was more than just a restaurant—it was a vibrant celebration of Venezuelan culture and cuisine. Located at 228 West 18th Street, this cozy eatery offered an authentic taste of Venezuela through dishes like the iconic arepas, delicately crispy cachapas, and the hearty pabellón criollo. Its colorful decor and lively ambiance created a welcoming space that transported diners straight to the streets of Caracas.

 was beloved for its dedication to traditional Venezuelan flavors. From succulent shredded chicken in the national dish to the crispy fried plantains known as patacones, every plate was crafted with care and passion. The menu also featured flavorful tequeños and an array of comfort foods perfect for lunch, brunch, or dinner. The restaurant catered to families and friends looking for a hearty meal in a cozy, Hispanic-inspired setting adorned with fresh flowers and colorful decorations.

Regulars and newcomers alike praised the restaurant for its authentic arepas and warm, inviting atmosphere. While the service was described as friendly and accommodating, the highlight was undoubtedly the food—rich in flavor and true to Venezuelan culinary traditions. Diners appreciated the reasonable prices that reflected the quality, though some noted portions were moderate, making each dish a satisfying experience without being overwhelming.

 with colorful Hispanic décor and fresh flowers on the tables.

 featuring traditional Venezuelan dishes like arepas, cachapas, tequeños, and pabellón criollo.

 with seating that welcomes children and groups.

 including NFC tap and debit cards, though no cash-only policy.

Frequently asked questions about El Cocotero

 El Cocotero was renowned for its authentic Venezuelan dishes, including arepas, patacones, tequeños, and pabellón criollo.

 El Cocotero closed in the first quarter of 2021 due to the economic pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 El Cocotero was located at 228 W 18th St, Chelsea, New York, NY 10011.

Although El Cocotero closed its doors in early 2021 amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, its impact on the Chelsea community remains strong. This little Venezuelan treasure was cherished for bringing a slice of Latin American culture to New York City’s diverse culinary landscape. Its authentic flavors, warm service, and inviting atmosphere have left lasting memories for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, El Cocotero is a charming restaurant that specializes in authentic Venezuelan food. Located at 228 W 18th St, this colorful eatery is renowned for its delicious arepas, cachapas, and pabellón criollo, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving traditional Venezuelan cuisine. With a cozy ambiance and a menu that caters to both dine-in and takeout options, El Cocotero is perfect for a casual meal or a special gathering.

El Cocotero's menu is a delightful exploration of Venezuelan flavors, featuring:

Arepas: A staple of Venezuelan cuisine, these cornmeal pockets can be filled with a variety of ingredients.

Cachapas: Sweet corn pancakes served with cheese, offering a unique taste of Venezuelan street food.

Pabellón Criollo: The national dish of Venezuela, featuring shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains.

Conveniently located in the heart of Chelsea, El Cocotero is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Visitors can explore the iconic Chelsea Market, a food lover's paradise, or take a stroll through the High Line, an elevated park that offers stunning views of the city. The vibrant art scene in Chelsea, with its numerous galleries and studios, is also just a short walk away, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal after a day of exploration.

Arepas & other traditional Venezuelan eats are paired with sangria at this tiny, colorful eatery.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNFcE1HQlNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG1FrE7xZwokRf9y0s1aNEoM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNFcE1HQlNnEAE

Venezuelan food, you will never go wrong with a good arepa, cachapa or any other dish. If you watching your weight this is not for you. Really nice decor, very Venezuelan, good ambiance. Service it's ok, food is really good & prices are reasonable on the high side but worth it to say the least. Definitely a place consider when in Chelsea and craving some comida criolla.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3dk5fSTlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG1FrE7xZwokRf9y0s1aNEoM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3dk5fSTlRRRAB

What a rare gem of a find this small restaurant is!
We stumbled into here by accident and had some of the best Venezuelan arepas I have ever tasted!
Service is great and the ambiance is fitting and sort of romantic. Will be going back soon!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURzeFBuRlFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG1FrE7xZwokRf9y0s1aNEoM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURzeFBuRlFnEAE

I had the pabellon Criolla and it was amazing. The quality and taste of the shredded chicken  was great the interior of the place is nice small they use live flowers that were fresh on their tables they also have very colorful Hispanic inspired decorations that is very fitting. Although they dont accept apple/samsung pay they do have a clover machine for those who seek to pay with tap. But all togeather it was great food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBX1pEZURnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG1FrE7xZwokRf9y0s1aNEoM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNBX1pEZURnEAE

Great flavors. Moderate sized portions. Service was a little slow but not too bad. Definitely worth another visit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNbzY3SmdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJG1FrE7xZwokRf9y0s1aNEoM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNbzY3SmdBRRAB

Authentic Venezuelan food. I am not Venezuelan myself but I went with a Venezuelan friend. Food was really good, the environment is small but really cozy and the server is really nice and flexible. Favorite dish is the national dish. It's got some pulled chicken very well cooked and juicy.

El Cocotero: Authentic Venezuelan Cuisine in Chelsea, NYC

El Cocotero was a beloved Venezuelan restaurant in Chelsea, New York, known for its authentic cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. It closed in 2021 due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

El Cocotero's journey in Chelsea, New York, started in 2004 and ended in 2021, leaving a flavorful legacy.

Nestled in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood of New York City, El Cocotero was more than just a restaurant; it was a cultural beacon for Venezuelan cuisine aficionados. Established in 2004, this intimate eatery quickly won hearts with its authentic dishes and lively atmosphere that celebrated the rich culinary traditions of Venezuela.

A vibrant taste of Venezuelan heritage in Chelsea

El Cocotero was renowned for its menu centered around iconic Venezuelan staples such as arepas, cachapas, and pabellón criollo, all served in a setting adorned with colorful Hispanic-inspired decorations. The cozy space, enhanced by fresh flowers on each table, provided an inviting ambiance that made every meal feel like a celebration of Venezuelan culture.

Despite its loyal following and consistent praise for flavorful dishes and authentic atmosphere, El Cocotero faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many beloved local establishments, the severe economic impact forced it to close its doors in 2021, marking the end of a distinctive chapter in Chelsea’s culinary story.

 El Cocotero opened in Chelsea, New York, introducing authentic Venezuelan cuisine to the neighborhood.

 The restaurant closed due to the economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Lunch

Serves Brunch

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Breakfast

Serves Cocktails

El Cocotero is a vibrant restaurant in Manhattan, New York, serving delightful Venezuelan dishes like arepas, tacos, and ceviches, paired with refreshing cocktails in a colorful and cozy atmosphere.

El Cocotero

Authentic Venezuelan cuisine featuring arepas, patacones, tequeños, and more.

Patacón Maracucho

Mandocas Maracuchas

Tequeños

Lenteja

Caraotas Negras O Rojas

Pollo

La Cocotero Salad

Atun Salad

Calamares Salad

El Cocotero Menu

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 228 West 18th Street, El Cocotero invites you to embark on a vibrant culinary journey through authentic Venezuelan cuisine. This colorful and intimate eatery is renowned for its richly flavored arepas and lively atmosphere, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking genuine comida criolla in New York City.

Begin your meal with a variety of traditional Venezuelan appetizers that burst with authentic flavors and textures.

 golden corn flour fritters blended with cheese, sweet plantain, panela, and nata, offering a perfect harmony of sweet and savory.

 traditional Venezuelan cheese sticks accompanied by zesty Luchos sauce, a crowd favorite for starters.

 a hearty lentil soup that comforts and satisfies with its rich, earthy flavors.

 choose between red or black bean soup, both staples in Venezuelan home cooking.

 a nourishing chicken broth infused with fresh vegetables, perfect for a light but flavorful start.

 grilled chicken breast atop fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and a house dressing that ties it all together.

 a refreshing tuna salad mixed with greens, tomatoes, red onions, finished with the same signature house dressing.

 crispy calamari served over mixed greens, tomatoes, and red onions, complemented by the house dressing.

El Cocotero's mains showcase classic Venezuelan comfort food, with robust ingredients and hearty preparations.

 a decadent creation featuring crispy green plantains loaded with shredded beef, shredded chicken, and classic Venezuelan fillings like Reina Pepiada and Domino sauces.

While the menu highlights the savory delights of Venezuelan cuisine, El Cocotero also serves traditional desserts and special dishes that embody the country's rich culinary heritage, perfect for those seeking a sweet ending or unique seasonal offerings.

Complement your meal with refreshing beverages, including Venezuelan-style coffee and sangria, alongside a curated selection of cocktails and beer that perfectly balance the bold flavors of the dishes.

Savor vibrant flavors at El Cocotero in Manhattan! Experience authentic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

El Cocotero: Authentic Manhattan Cuisine & Vibes

New York County

Convenient pickup option for takeout orders.

Curbside pickup

Safe delivery service minimizing contact.

No-contact delivery

Home delivery service for all menu items.

Enjoy meals in the cozy restaurant setting.

Dine-in

Experience Authentic Venezuelan Flavors at El Cocotero in Chelsea

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, El Cocotero is a vibrant culinary gem offering an immersive taste of Venezuelan cuisine. This cozy and colorful eatery invites food lovers to savor traditional dishes like arepas, cachapas, and the iconic pabellón criollo, all crafted with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you're craving a hearty brunch, a satisfying lunch, or a fulfilling dinner, El Cocotero delivers an experience filled with cultural richness and culinary passion.

Vibrant Atmosphere and Welcoming Ambiance

Step inside El Cocotero and be greeted by a warm, inviting space adorned with colorful Hispanic-inspired decorations and fresh live flowers on each table. The intimate setting offers a cozy dining experience where guests can immerse themselves in the rich culture of Venezuela while enjoying great service in a relaxed, romantic ambiance. Perfect for both casual meals and special occasions, this petite restaurant embodies the heart of Venezuelan hospitality in New York City.

El Cocotero's menu is a celebration of Venezuela's beloved street foods and traditional recipes. Feast on freshly prepared arepas filled with savory shredded chicken, cheeses, or beans, or indulge in sweet and savory cachapas made from fresh corn. The pabellón criollo, Venezuela's national dish, offers tender shredded beef paired with black beans, rice, and fried plantains — a must-try for newcomers and veterans alike. Though the menu does not cater to vegetarians specifically, meat lovers will find plenty to delight their taste buds.

Whether you want to dine in and soak up the ambiance or prefer enjoying your meal on the go, El Cocotero has you covered. They offer dine-in seating for a relaxed meal, as well as convenient takeout, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery options to fit your busy lifestyle. Payment is hassle-free with acceptance of debit cards and NFC tap payments, making your visit or order seamless. Families with children are welcome, as the restaurant offers a comfortable environment suitable for all ages.

 - Convenient and safe option for picking up your Venezuelan favorites.

 - Enjoy your meal safely with minimal contact delivery service.

 - Grab your favorite arepas and cachapas to enjoy anywhere.

 - Relish your meal in a vibrant, cozy setting filled with authentic Venezuelan charm.

Enjoy authentic Venezuelan dishes at El Cocotero, Chelsea. Famous for arepas, pabellón criollo, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit us today!

El Cocotero in Manhattan, Chelsea - Venezuelan Cuisine & Arepas

Experience traditional Venezuelan flavors at El Cocotero in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood. Cozy, authentic, and perfect for food lovers!

Discover El Cocotero in Chelsea, NYC - Top Venezuelan Food & Atmosphere

Learn about El Cocotero, a beloved Venezuelan eatery in Chelsea, NYC, known for its authentic dishes and vibrant ambiance. Closed in 2021.

El Cocotero Menu Overview

Starters

Mains

Desserts and Specials

Drinks

TAO Downtown Restaurant

Pastis

Ace Hotel New York