Tikal Mayan Food

- 1393 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021

Tikal Mayan Food brings a unique and authentic culinary experience to New York City, serving as a proud representative of Guatemalan cuisine on the Upper East Side. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural gateway, offering a menu that feels like a trip to a Guatemalan home kitchen. As one customer beautifully put it, stepping into Tikal is “like opening the menu to my moms kitchen.” We are a relatively new addition to the neighborhood, but we have quickly become a cherished spot for those in the know, offering flavors that are both comforting and exciting.

Our mission is to share the rich and diverse flavors of Mayan and Guatemalan food with New Yorkers. We pride ourselves on creating dishes that are not commonly found in the city, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. From hearty stews like our Pepian de Pollo and Pulique de Res to unique street food-style items like pupusas and Tacos de Birria, our menu is a flavorful exploration of a cuisine that is often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors. The cozy and casual atmosphere, combined with the incredibly kind and attentive staff, makes Tikal a welcoming space for anyone, whether you are a Guatemalan food enthusiast or a curious newcomer.

Tikal Mayan Food is conveniently situated at 1393 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA. This location makes us an accessible dining spot for residents and visitors on the Upper East Side. You can easily find us between 72nd and 73rd streets, a prime location for grabbing lunch or dinner. For those driving, paid street parking is available, though it can be competitive. We encourage customers to use public transit if possible, as our restaurant is within walking distance of several bus stops and subway stations, making it a simple journey from various parts of the city.

Our space is designed to be a comfortable retreat. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, creating a laid-back and intimate setting. We believe that a great meal is best enjoyed in a relaxed environment, and our restaurant provides just that. The focus is on the food and the company, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the flavors and experience we offer.

Tikal Mayan Food provides several convenient services to ensure you can enjoy our authentic cuisine in the way that best suits you.

• No-contact delivery: Order our food online and have it delivered safely to your door with minimal contact.
• Delivery: We offer a standard delivery service so you can enjoy our food from the comfort of your home or office.
• Takeout: Place an order for pickup and grab your meal to go.
• Dine-in: Join us in our cozy restaurant for a full dining experience.
• Catering: We offer catering services for events and parties, bringing the authentic taste of Guatemala to your special occasion.
• Table service: Our friendly staff provides attentive service to make your dine-in experience as pleasant as possible.

Tikal Mayan Food stands out for its unique offerings and authentic feel.

• Authentic Guatemalan Cuisine: We are one of the few places in New York City where you can find genuine Guatemalan dishes. The menu is an exploration of traditional recipes, including unique items like Pupusas and Kaq'ik De Pavo, a traditional turkey soup.

• Flavorful Stews: Our stews, or "Platos Fuertes," are a must-try. The Pulique De Res, a traditional beef stew, and the Pepian De Pollo are both praised for their rich and complex flavors, often featuring a lovely balance of lime, cilantro, and spices.

• Pupusas: These thick corn tortillas stuffed with various fillings are a popular and delicious choice. A customer raved about the chicharrón pupusa, noting it was “great, some chicharrón some cheese in a thickish tortilla, great.”

• Unique Beverages: Beyond the food, we offer a selection of traditional Guatemalan drinks, including Agua Fresca like Jamaica and Tamarindo, and delicious warm beverages such as Atol De Elote and a popular Arroz Con Leche, which one reviewer described as a "1 way ticket to yum city" with its thick, sweet, and cinnamon-rich profile.

• Family-Owned and Friendly Staff: As a new, family-owned establishment, we are committed to providing a personal and welcoming experience. The staff is known for being “very kind” and “constantly checking in,” and they are happy to guide newcomers through the menu and recommend dishes.

Choosing a dish at Tikal Mayan Food is an adventure, but there are a few items that consistently stand out. For a true taste of Guatemala, you cannot go wrong with our stews. The Pulique De Res is a fan favorite, a hearty and flavorful beef stew that promises a satisfying meal. As a local shared, the beef stew had a "lovely lime and cilantro element to offset the spice," creating a truly balanced flavor profile. If you're new to the cuisine, the friendly staff is more than happy to make recommendations, making your decision-making process much easier.

Our pupusas are another must-try item. The Chicharron pupusa is a delicious choice, described as a "great" blend of pork and cheese in a thick tortilla, served with an "excellent touch" of salsa verde. While one customer noted the beef in their stew was a bit tough, they chalked it up to a late order, and the overall consensus is that the food is a home run.

Beyond the main courses, a trip to Tikal is incomplete without trying one of our unique beverages. The Arroz Con Leche is an absolute gem, a thick, sweet, and comforting rice and milk drink with cinnamon that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Our Agua Fresca options like Horchata and Jamaica are also refreshing and authentic choices.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is also a key part of its charm. It's a casual and cozy spot that’s great for a quiet solo meal or a relaxed dinner with friends. It's also a place that’s "good for kids," making it a versatile option for families. In a city where it can be hard to find authentic, family-run establishments, Tikal Mayan Food stands out as a true "hidden gem" that is proud to serve its community. The combination of authentic food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a place worth seeking out and returning to.

• Address: 1393 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA
• Phone: (212) 837-1911

Tikal Mayan Food

1393 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA