Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, traditions, and contributions from Hispanic communities. Long Island City houses some of the most inspiring Hispanic and Latino leaders and business owners. Whether you eat or dance your way through LIC, let’s continue to support Hispanic and Latino-owned businesses.
Cucala Dance Company – 47-10 32nd Place
Salsa your heart out through dance at Cucala Dance Company. You can practically feel the energy and good vibes once you walk through those doors. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro in the ballroom, Cucala has a little something for everyone—maybe you’ll find yourself stepping into their other dance styles like bachata, cumbia, tango, and hip-hop.
Quintessential Therapy – 30-10 41st Ave
Zen out at Quintessential Therapy with wellness experts who will guide your spirit and your body through healing exercises. Discover where you are in your wellness journey and connect with others to balance your energy and enhance your well-being. Check out their “Mindful Monday” happenings to explore different wellness practices and mindfulness practices, like soundbaths and wellness crafts.
Jora Restaurant & Bar – 47-46 11th Street
Taste Peruvian cuisine like you never have before. Jora prides themselves on cooking up the most authentic Peruvian cuisine in LIC. Their signature cocktails with pisco, a pomace brandy from Peru, are a fan favorite, paired with their refreshing ceviches.
[fLo rE sta] – 51-02 Vernon Blvd
This family-run flower shop embodies the spirit of small businesses everywhere. Juan Carlo Bermudez is a third-generation florist, taking after his family of flower growers in Colombia. He started on the streets, selling flowers on different corners in Long Island City, eventually opening up a blossoming flower shop where he planted his roots. Stop by and explore the beautiful arrangements they create for holidays, weddings, or just a random Wednesday.
R40 – 47-16 Vernon Blvd
This chic Argentinian spot serves up locally sourced foods, smoked over their custom parrilla. Everything here is meant to be shared with friends and family—a nod to Argentina’s community and hospitality. Favorites include the skirt steak with chimichurri and the arroz negro—a beautiful harmony of prawns, calamari, and saffron. Find R40 in the Michelin Guide for Queens Restaurants.
Casa Enrique – 5-48 49th Ave
Next to R40 on the Michelin Guide is Casa Enrique, a neighborhood classic Mexican restaurant. Hailing from Chiapas, Mexico, Chef Cosme has 6 Michelin stars under his belt, and you’ll taste it in his cooking. Their chilaquiles rojos and mole are fan favorites, and it would be a crime to end the night without indulging in their tres leches.
Pueblo Querido Coffee Roasters – 2947 Northern Boulevard
Pueblo Querido does not play about their coffee—strong, flavorful, and always freshly roasted. This Colombian family-owned business focuses on fair trade practices and keeping true coffee culture alive by sourcing from small coffee farms for unique products. This is a local favorite neighborhood coffee shop, with plenty of seating, good Wi-Fi, and Latin American pastries like pandequeso and pastelitos.
The Inkan – 4582 23rd Street
One of NYC’s best Peruvian restaurants is tucked away on a side street in LIC. A perfect spot for lunch and dinner, LIC locals say that the rotisserie chicken at The Inkan is top tier—moist, juicy, and well-seasoned. Soak up the last bits of warm weather on their back patio with a pisco sour in hand and Latin music through the air.
Madera Cuban Grill – 4729 Vernon Blvd
Madera is the go-to spot for Cuban cuisine in LIC. Serving up tender steaks and beautiful platters, Madera is great for a date night or a small group dinner. Grab some plates and share everything—you’ll definitely want a little taste of all Madera has to offer.
Industry Gymnastics – 502 50th Ave
Owner and powerhouse Natalie Fuertes heads Industry Gymnastics, an inclusive gym that welcomes all ages, minds, and bodies. A proud Nuyorican (Puerto Rican in NYC) who creates a safe space for everyone she encounters is what Long Island City is all about. She has created a community where families trust that their children will grow up with a sense of belonging among their peers. With gymnastics classes, camps, and clinics for any level athletes, students learn at their own pace and build strength and confidence through movement.
Earth Angel Crystal – 5-48 50th Ave
Daisy Tamberino is a fifth-generation healer, a natural born psychic medium, and the founder of Earth Angel Crystal. She assists those who want to align with their higher selves and live a spiritually guided life. Her crystal shop is tucked away on the second floor, but you can feel the energy pulling you in as you approach those purple doors. Step in for some high vibrations and manifestations.
L.M. Café – 11-11 44th Rd
The smell of freshly brewed coffee and pastries makes you feel like being wrapped in a warm hug the moment you step into this family-owned café. For Chef Luis Centeno, it is more than just baking pastries—it’s sharing his passions and culture with his community. This local spot also serves up traditional Peruvian foods like lomo saltado and arroz chaufa (on select days only). Stop by and try their spin on Peruvian pastries and sandwiches!
