NYC Local Legends: Naq Zamal
There’s no better way to see New York City than through the eyes of a local. In our NYC Local Legends video series, notable New Yorkers share their perspectives on some of the five boroughs’ most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods. In this episode, Queens native Naq Zamal takes us on a food tour of Jackson Heights, highlighting the array of diverse South Asian cultures that thrive there.
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Arepa Lady
This plain little areperia under a billiards hall and the rumble of the 7 line subway is a legendary destination.
Delhi Heights
This newcomer to the Jackson Heights dining scene has been earning rave reviews from diners.
Himalayan Yak
This Tibetan and Nepalese restaurant gets fresh shipments of yak meat from a Vermont farm.
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BROWSE ALL JACKSON HEIGHTS
51 Results
Urubamba
This tasteful BYOB spot takes its name from a small village in the highlands of Peru and specializes in that area’s cuisine—serving up ceviche, papa rellenas, jalea and other Peruvian favorites, as well as a full range of steakhouse standards like skirt steak, strip steak and seafood.
Espresso 77
Monthly storytime at the beloved coffeeshop is a boon to the burgeoning Jackson Heights stroller set—and the expertly pulled lattes keep parents buzzing.
India Sari Palace
Racks of sari fabric in every color of the rainbow line the walls of this shop—but their careful custom tailoring is what sets them apart from other sari stores.
Uncle Peter's
Uncle Peter's menu includes an eclectic selection of foods that draw inspiration from Italy, Spain and France.
Amaru Pisco Bar
The pisco sour—a cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, eggs, syrup, ice and Angostura bitters—has seen its profile rise during the recent mixology revolution.
Cositas Ricas
This all-night diner offers a thick menu of Colombian delicacies for every meal of the day—including skirt steak, fried plantains, chorizo, rice and beans, ropa vieja, empanadas and more.
Mi Mexico Lindo Tacos
This taco cart is a staple of the late-night, post-bar scene—large lines can be spotted here at any hour of the day or night, filled with customers clamoring for $2 tacos filled with al pastor, carnitas, chorizo or carne enchilada, as well as the stand’s tortas, sopes, flautas, tostadas or quesadillas (not to mention the cart’s wide selection of Jarritos Mexican sodas to wash it all down).
Lavanya
Lavanya sets itself apart from many other sari boutiques with its vast selection of both contemporary and traditional wedding lehengas.