It’s one of the most ethnically diverse parts in the US, so it’s little wonder that Queens is home to Mexican gastro spot El Patio.
Award-winning chef Miguel Cepeda’s passion for pulling together unique flavours with sensory experiences can be seen with the staples on his menu, such as the pairings of salmon and butternut squash purée as well as jumbo shrimp and curry-coconut sauce. The menu is small but hearty, with mains and sharers alongside a few entrees like guacamole and roasted cauliflower for those not after something too filling.
El Patio is also known for its unique drinks whipped up by their in-house mixologist, including molecular cocktails that come with dry ice, wispy vapours and fresh cotton candy made at the restaurant. Expect interesting twists on old favourites like the Tobacco Old Fashioned with rum and cigar bitters and tequila-based Spicy Heights with jalapeños in a passion infusion. By nightfall, the spot becomes a buzzing neighbourhood bar.