Situated alongside the 1,146-acre Van Cortlandt Park, the Bronx’s Kingsbridge neighborhood is “the right mix” of New York City and suburban vibes. That’s according to Richard Berroa, who, along with his wife Claudia, opened Claudy’s Kitchen at 5981 Broadway back in the summer of 2020 — not the easiest time to open a restaurant, when many were shutting down due to the pandemic, but the neighborhood came through and supported the new establishment.
“Our neighborhood is family-oriented, super friendly, and we’re green thanks to Van Cortlandt Park," Berroa said. And he was quick to point out to New Yorkers in other areas that they’re just 30 minutes from Midtown via the subway or Metro-North.
Subway
Hudson
Claudy's is next to the 1 train at the 242 St station (you can also transfer to the 1 near the Marble Hill Metro-North stop)
Claudy’s is a Peruvian restaurant that got its start selling Claudia’s incredible flan at a local deli. After the deli requested an order of 2,000 more, they knew they had a hit on their hands — and indeed, Claudy’s now sports a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand.
You can get that popular flan in a variety of flavors (and for just $3.50) at their brick-and-mortar, along with empanadas, tamales, lomo saltado, and other savory snacks and entrees worth the short train ride.
Click on the below video to learn more about the spot — which you’ll find right off the 242nd St stop on the 1 line — from Berroa himself:
The Berroas also shared their own neighborhood favorites, so bring this list with you on your next visit to Kingsbridge and eat like a local.
Santa Fe Grill (6025 Broadway) — “It's a neighborhood Mexican restaurant that we always go to. The food is fresh and tasty, the margaritas are cold and strong!”
Lloyd's Carrot Cake (6087 Broadway) — “World famous and once you taste the carrot cake you'll know why.”
The Tortoise & the Hare (6115 Broadway) — “Local neighborhood pub with good food, cold beers and a great view of Van Cortlandt, it's our go-to place for lunch after playing tennis in the park.”
Pearl Dynastea (3702 Riverdale Ave) — “A bubble tea parlor that has a variety of flavors to cool you down even as the sun melts everything around you.”
Kingsbridge Social Club (3625 Kingsbridge Ave) — “The favorite local pizza spot, they make small gourmet pizza pies. And the Miele di Melanzane — which has fried eggplant, crispy prosciutto, mozzarella, capers, spicy honey, and tomatoes — is so yummy!”
Do you have a favorite spot in Kingsbridge? Let us know — tag us on Twitter and Instagram: @MTAaway.
