View photos

About This Place

Welcome to La Catracha, a vibrant culinary gem nestled in the heart of Staten Island at 68 Van Riper St. This Mexican restaurant has quickly become a beloved spot among locals, known for its flavorful dishes that transport diners straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico and Honduras.

Stepping inside La Catracha, you can feel the warmth of its atmosphere. With an intimate setting and a splash of thematic decor, it invites you to savor authentic flavors. Although the space is cozy, the buzz of happy diners and occasional dancing create an exciting vibe that is hard to resist.

The menu is a tribute to traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring mouthwatering options like the Alambre de Bistek (Steak Wire) and the Fajitas de Bistek. Prices are reasonable, with each dish offering generous portions that leave you satisfied but always yearning for more. The Camarones al Mojo de Ajo (Shrimp in Garlic) and the rich Caldo de Mariscos (Seafood Soup) are not to be missed, showcasing the depth and variety of flavors that La Catracha has to offer.

Customer reviews echo the charm of this restaurant. Many patrons, like Jeffrey Li, appreciate the friendly service that makes every visit feel welcoming. Despite some language barriers, the staff's warmth shines through, making it a favorite spot for newcomers and regulars alike. Evy Love praises the personal touch given by staff members like El Flaco and Diana, who treat guests like family—an experience that adds to the restaurant's overall appeal.

The food at La Catracha has captivated many, with Mark Sigalov declaring that their tacos are the best in the area. Vincent Buttermark's comments about feeling like he's on vacation while enjoying his pork burrito reflect the restaurant's ability to create a delightful dining experience that goes beyond just food.

If you crave simple, filling, and authentically made Mexican food, La Catracha is the place to be. With a menu brimming with flavor and a warm atmosphere, it promises not just a meal, but a memorable experience. Don’t hesitate—make your way to La Catracha and discover why this lively eatery has become a cornerstone of the local dining scene.

Service options

Accessibility

  • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance

Service options

  • Offers takeaway
  • Serves dine-in

Highlights

  • Has fast service

Popular for

  • Popular for breakfast
  • Popular for lunch
  • Popular for dinner
  • Good for solo dining

Offerings

  • Serves alcohol
  • Serves beer
  • Serves coffee
  • Serves comfort food
  • Serves food
  • Serves healthy options
  • Quick bite
  • Serves small plates

Dining options

  • Serves breakfast
  • Serves lunch
  • Serves dinner
  • Serves dessert
  • Has seating

Amenities

  • Has toilet

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy

Crowd

  • Good for groups

Payments

  • Accepts credit cards

Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs available

Locations

Guest Reviews (301)

I had passed by La Tuna Restaurant (Even though it has the La Catracha sign in the window, the menus say La Tuna) several times when I parked to grab a slice from Brother’s Pizza across the street, and the restaurant always seemed to be filled with people, some of them dancing from time to time. This time as I passed the restaurant, i stopped to look at the menu in the front window, and one of the folks in the restaurant came outside to see if I would like a menu and to come in. I am glad that I took an opportunity to try the place. I had the Enchiladas Rojas for twelve dollars and my friend had a burrito for eight. The food is simple, tasty and filling. The portions are generous. As decor goes, the restaurant is pretty sparse. There are only about eight tables in the restaurant, and a small bar area that seats four folks. The restaurant is very much geared to be a local restaurant serving a Hispanic crowd, but I never felt unwelcome. While there is a bit of a language barrier with some of the staff if you don’t speak Spanish, the warmth of service more than makes up for it. I recommend this place for a quick and tasty sit down meal.

Definitely one of my favorite places in Staten Island! Thanks to el flaco and Diana, they are super kind and always treats me like family!

Intimate space with ample seating and thematic decor. Food was phenomenal. Best tacos I've had in the area so I felt compelled to write a review. Their hotsauce is to die for.

The place is great .. feel like I'm eating somewhere on vacation .. the ladies are always looking so beautiful... the pork burrito is my favorite.... over all great place !

Its a Nice spot if you want to feel and taste a bit of of Mexico ???????? and Honduras ????????!! Food was Amazing Service was appreciated and atmosphere was inviting and music playing while you eat definitely a plus! So check out La Tuna's (La Catracha) you won't be disappointed.

This place has amazing food. They do the little things right, that most places overlook. It's because they take pride in their work. An unexpected piece of fatty chicharon in my pork taco is what won me over. Only someone who cares about the experience they deliver, would do something like that. Everything I've tried since then has not let me down, or let up.

Share Your Experience at La Catracha

Your opinion matters! Help other visitors discover this spot. Your email will stay private. Fields with * are required.

Service & Hospitality
Value for Money
Food & Drinks
Ambience & Location

Similar Places

La Posta de Caballito

Neuquen 754, C1405 CKF, Cdad. Autonoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina

Bergham Saint-Leonard

5372 Rue Jean-Talon E, Saint-Léonard, QC H1S 1L5, Canada

GATEWAY TO INDIA - Restaurante

C. los Amarguillos, 2, 04621 Vera, Almeria, Spain

Punto a Capo Bistrot di pesce

Via Laertina, 27A, 01010 Marta VT, Italy

Pizzaria La Torre

Praça da Bíblia - Vila Nova, Crixás - GO, 76510-000, Brazil