Braulio’s y Familia
Welcomes You…
Latin Style

One of the joys of living in Queens is the rich, ethnic tapestry that has been woven during the last century by the immigrants from many lands who have made the borough their home. Braulio’s y Familia Restaurant and Bar is one strong thread in this tapestry, as it brings a taste of Ecuador to the people of Queens.

Located on a quiet street in Woodside, this tiny, unobtrusive restaurant packs a whole lot of punch when it comes to authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, drinks and music, with live music on Saturday nights. A mere 10 linen-dressed tables line the petite dining room, which is usually filled with locals who come for the fresh and honest flavors that Ecuadorian food has to offer. As the name suggests, Braulio’s is a family affair that began six years ago, with Braulio Vergara at the helm and wife Maria Espinosa cooking her family’s recipes in the kitchen. The welcoming atmosphere is underscored by attractive young ladies who serve with a smile while a jukebox plays folkloric music.

Begin with a nice Chilean wine or an ice-cold beer or cocktail. Order an empanada to start—a flaky, handmade pastry filled with chicken or cheese and mashed green plantains, which are prevalent in Latin cuisine. These empanadas are delicious on their own or dressed with a dab of homemade green chili sauce served separately ($2).

After savoring the hot empanadas, we cooled our palates with a traditional appetizer of ceviche. Pronounced “seh-VEE-chay,” this dish consists of any type of fresh shellfish marinated in lime juice, sweet red onion and herbs. The shrimp swimming in this heavenly marinade were tender and flavorful, and we soaked up the cool juices with homemade plantain chips. Other ceviche dishes are made with pulpo (octopus), mussels, clams and fish as well, and are a “must try.”

Fresh salads made with avocado, chicken or shrimp and cool greens are also great to start with, as are the delicious soups. Beef soup, hearty chicken soup or shrimp soup are just a few of the menu offerings.

Ecuadorian cuisine consists largely of grilled meats, fish and seafood, along with delicious rice and sides. For a great sampling, I suggest you order the Braulio’s Family picada, a mixed grill of beef, tender chicken, sausage and pork prepared for two or four persons. What makes it even more special is that it comes with a variety of huge corn kernels and giant fava beans indigenous to Ecuador. A dressed salad comes with this platter. It’s plenty for two and for $14.95 provides a nice introduction to this cuisine. Don’t be afraid—Ecuadorian cuisine is not spicy, though you can add a spoonful of chili sauce if you so desire. Carne asada is a classic grilled steak, served with the best tasting rice and beans around, and at $8.95, it won’t break the bank.

There’s a hearty chicken stew on the menu, served with yellow rice and sweet plantains, or a simply prepared grilled chicken breast, served with French fries and salad ($8.95). Try a fish dish such as the whole deep fried trout, served with rice, plantains and salad. You can also order fillet of snapper or flounder, grilled, deep fried or topped with a special house sauce sauce ($10.95). Shrimp in rich garlic sauce is one of my favorite dishes and the kids will like the golden fried shrimp. On the weekends, a special seafood combination is served on a platter of seasoned rice similar to paella.

Cool down with a fresh fruit drink such as mango, passion fruit, guava or pineapple while you think about dessert. A traditional ending to your meal could be sweet figs with a mild white cheese, creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, vanilla and raisins or sweet flan. Ice cream and coffee and tea are available.

Braulio’s y Familia is open seven days for lunch and dinner, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. They’re open till 4 a.m. on weekends to accommodate a late night crowd that comes for the music. Braulio’s will deliver lunch or dinner to your home or office for free.

Try Braulio’s y Familia for something new and different. You don’t have to be Latino to enjoy this great food. The bilingual menu and staff are very helpful and you can check out their Web site for more information. Gracias Braulio y Familia!