Located at 139 Essex Street in Manhattan, Patacon Pisao shines as a vibrant destination for those craving authentic Venezuelan cuisine. The star of the menu is the Patacon , a unique Venezuelan sandwich where savory meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables are nestled between crispy, flattened fried green plantain cakes. Beyond Patacones, the menu also features irresistible Arepas and other street fare staples that capture the essence of Venezuelan flavors.
This small but lively eatery is known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes that deliver a genuine taste of Venezuela right in New York City. Visitors appreciate the friendly and engaging staff, who add a personal touch to each order. Although the seating is limited to a few bistro tables with outdoor options, many customers find takeaway to be a convenient way to enjoy the food anywhere in the city. The casual atmosphere combined with quick service makes Patacon Pisao a go-to spot for lunch, brunch, and dinner.
The local community holds a positive view of Patacon Pisao, praising its authentic flavors and friendly service. While some reviews mention limited seating comfort and suggest takeout as the preferred option, the overall sentiment highlights the restaurant as a hidden gem for Venezuelan street food lovers seeking an affordable and tasty experience. The presence of vegetarian-friendly options ensures that everyone can enjoy the vibrant menu offerings.
- What are Patacones? Patacones are Venezuelan sandwiches made with flattened and fried green plantains as the base, filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
- Do they offer vegetarian options? Yes, Patacon Pisao provides vegetarian-friendly dishes, including vegetarian Patacones and Arepas.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating for patrons.
- Do they accept credit cards? Yes, Patacon Pisao accepts credit and debit cards, as well as cash payments.
- Is takeout available? Yes, takeout services are available for customers.
Founded in 2005, Patacon Pisao began its culinary journey as a humble food truck nestled in the vibrant neighborhoods of Washington Heights and Inwood, New York City. Its inception marked the start of sharing authentic Venezuelan flavors with a diverse urban audience eager for genuine street fare.
Over the following decade, the food truck cultivated a loyal following by serving traditional Venezuelan dishes such as patacón sandwiches — which feature savory meat nestled between crispy fried plantain cakes — arepas, and other beloved street foods. Each bite celebrates Venezuelan culinary heritage with freshness and vibrant flavors.
In 2015, Patacon Pisao made a significant leap by opening a brick-and-mortar location at 139 Essex Street in Manhattan's dynamic Lower East Side. This move brought the rich tastes of Venezuelan street cuisine to an even broader audience, blending the neighborhood’s historic grit with the warmth and zest of Latin American culinary tradition.
While the physical space is cozy and intimate, Patacon Pisao remains true to its roots by offering an authentic menu featuring signature dishes like their famous patacón sandwiches, arepas filled with savory ingredients, and vegetarian-friendly options — all crafted to provide an immersive taste of Venezuelan culture in the heart of New York City.
- 2005: Patacon Pisao launched as a food truck serving Venezuelan specialties in Washington Heights/Inwood, NYC.
- 2015: First permanent restaurant opened on the Lower East Side at 139 Essex Street, expanding access to authentic Venezuelan cuisine.
Located at 139 Essex St, New York, NY, Patacon Pisao offers a taste of authentic Venezuelan cuisine, specializing in patacón sandwiches and other traditional street fare. This casual eatery is known for its generous portions and friendly service, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quick and satisfying meal.
- Authentic Venezuelan cuisine
- Generous portions
- Friendly service
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options
- Outdoor seating available
- Takeout and delivery services
- Affordable prices
- Limited seating
- Cash-only establishment
Patacon Pisao is perfect for casual dining with friends or a quick lunch during a busy day in Manhattan. Its friendly atmosphere and quick service make it a great choice for anyone craving authentic Venezuelan flavors.
- Expect a small dining area with limited seating.
- Bring cash, as they do not accept credit cards.
- Takeout is a popular option among patrons.
While Patacon Pisao has its drawbacks, such as limited seating and a cash-only policy, its authentic Venezuelan offerings and friendly service make it a worthwhile stop in New York City. For those looking to enjoy hearty meals in a casual setting, this restaurant delivers a unique taste of Venezuela.
