Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa in College Point, NYC, has quickly become a local favorite, known for its delicious Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken and extensive menu. This review dives deep into what makes Mr. Mario's stand out, exploring its menu offerings, customer experiences, and overall value. We'll examine the various dishes, analyze pricing, and provide insights to help you decide if Mr. Mario's is your next culinary adventure.
The Allure of Mr. Mario's: More Than Just Chicken
While the rotisserie chicken is undoubtedly the star of the show at Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa, the restaurant offers a surprisingly diverse menu. Beyond the perfectly seasoned and juicy chicken, you'll find a wide array of Peruvian staples, catering to various tastes and preferences. This extensive selection is a key reason for its popularity, ensuring there's something for everyone in your group.
A Closer Look at the Menu: Flavors of Peru
Mr. Mario's menu is a vibrant tapestry of Peruvian flavors. Let's explore some highlights:
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Pollos a la Brasa (Rotisserie Chicken): The cornerstone of the restaurant, this chicken is marinated to perfection, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. The crispy skin is a delightful contrast to the juicy interior. Many customers rave about the perfect blend of herbs and spices used in the marinade. This is the dish that keeps customers coming back for more.
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Parrillas (Grilled Meats): Beyond chicken, Mr. Mario’s offers a selection of grilled meats including anticuchos (beef heart skewers), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), and chuletas a la brasa (grilled pork chops). These dishes offer a diverse range of textures and flavors, appealing to those seeking something beyond the classic rotisserie chicken.
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Pescados (Seafood): For seafood lovers, Mr. Mario’s provides options like ceviche (marinated seafood) and grilled fish, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients. The preparation of these dishes respects traditional Peruvian cooking methods.
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Sides: No Peruvian meal is complete without a selection of delicious sides. Mr. Mario’s offers a variety of options, including yuca frita (fried yuca), papa a la Huancaína (potatoes in a creamy cheese sauce), and arroz con pollo (chicken rice). These sides perfectly complement the main dishes.
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Drinks: The beverage selection complements the food perfectly, offering traditional Peruvian drinks such as chicha morada (purple corn drink) and a selection of juices and sodas.
What Customers Are Saying: A Review Roundup
Online reviews paint a consistently positive picture of Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa. Many customers praise:
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The quality of the chicken: The consistently juicy and flavorful chicken receives widespread acclaim.
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The generous portions: Most customers comment on the large portion sizes, offering excellent value for the price.
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The friendly service: The staff is often praised for their welcoming and attentive service.
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The clean and comfortable atmosphere: While not a fine-dining establishment, the restaurant is described as clean, comfortable, and family-friendly.
However, some minor criticisms include occasional slow service during peak hours and limited seating.
Pricing and Value: A Balanced Perspective
Mr. Mario's offers competitive pricing, making it an accessible option for families and individuals alike. While prices may vary depending on the specific dishes and size of your order, it generally provides good value considering the portion sizes and quality of the food. A typical meal for two might range from $30-$50, depending on your choices.
Is Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa Worth a Visit?
Absolutely! Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa in College Point offers a delightful Peruvian dining experience. The high-quality rotisserie chicken, diverse menu, generous portions, and friendly service make it a strong contender for your next meal. While minor drawbacks like occasional slow service exist, the overall positive experience outweighs these minor inconveniences. If you're in College Point, Mr. Mario's is definitely worth a try.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are Mr. Mario's hours of operation? A: It's best to check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours as they may vary.
Q: Does Mr. Mario's offer delivery or takeout? A: Many online reviews suggest they offer takeout, but it's best to confirm directly with the restaurant.
Q: Is Mr. Mario's suitable for families with children? A: Yes, the restaurant is generally considered family-friendly.
Q: What payment methods does Mr. Mario's accept? A: It's best to contact the restaurant directly to confirm accepted payment methods.
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Mr. Mario Pollos a la Brasa. Remember that individual experiences can vary, but based on the available information, it appears to be a worthwhile culinary destination in College Point, NYC.
