Best Dishes at Malecon
Half Rotisserie Chicken
MainsThe signature dish Malecon has been known for since 1987. Reviewers who have tasted 35+ roasted chicken spots in NYC rank this in their top 3. Pairs beautifully with a side of boiled green bananas.
Sancocho
MainsA warming Dominican soup that comes steaming and heavily loaded with meat. Multiple reviews call it out specifically as a must-try alongside the rotisserie chicken. Perfect for cold weather or when you want to feel full.
Shrimp Mofongo
MainsCreamy mashed plantain base with tender shrimp. Reviewers consistently recommend ordering mofongo as the perfect complement to rotisserie chicken. Malecon's version is frequently praised as best-in-category.
Pernil
MainsTender and flavorful pork that has been slow-roasted with Caribbean spices. Served alongside Moro Gandules (mixed rice with pigeon peas) and sweet plantains. Reviewers note the meat practically falls apart.
Fried Whole Snapper
MainsA whole fish fried until crispy skin and flaky interior. Served with the standard accompaniments. Reviews mention this as another standout dish showcasing the kitchen's skill beyond just rotisserie chicken.
About Malecon
Opened in 1987 on this Washington Heights corner, Malecon has become a Dominican institution where families celebrate birthdays with pitchers of sangria and friends gather after church. The kitchen rotisserie runs all day producing birds with skin that tastes like it's coated in brown sugar. Reviewers who've tried 35+ roasted chicken spots in NYC rank it in the top 3.
Top 5 dishes at Malecon:
- Half Rotisserie Chicken – 95% recommended(Signature)
- Sancocho – 85% recommended(Signature)
- Shrimp Mofongo – 90% recommended(Signature)
- Pernil – 85% recommended(Signature)
- Fried Whole Snapper – 80% recommended
Details
- Cuisine:
- Dominican
- Price Range:
- $$
- Phone:
- +1 (212) 927-3812
- Website:
- Visit Website
- Services:
- Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
Hours
- Friday:
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM(Open Now)
- Sunday:
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Monday:
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tuesday:
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday:
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Thursday:
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Saturday:
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Arrives loud and packed, especially Sunday nights when families celebrate after church. Expect to wait and enjoy the party atmosphere with sangria pitchers at neighboring tables.
Daily lunch specials offer about 8 full plate dinners at discounted rates. The menu rotates by day of the week — call ahead to confirm which specials are available.
Portions are genuinely large. One person can easily share a half chicken with a side order between two people. Staff is accommodating if you ask for portion guidance.
At $8.50 for a half chicken and $12-18 for most mains, Malecon offers excellent value for the quality and portion size. One of the best price-to-portion ratios in the neighborhood.
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