Malecón Express Restaurant

Malecon Express is hands down one of the best Dominican spots I’ve ever been to. The food is incredible—authentic, flavorful, and cooked with love. Every dish I’ve tried has been spot-on, you can tell they put real care into every meal. But what really makes this place special is the people. The staff is unbelievably friendly and welcoming—it honestly feels like you’re visiting family. They treat you with genuine warmth and hospitality, which is rare to find these days. If you’re looking for amazing Dominican food and a place that makes you feel right at home, look no further. Malecon Express is a gem!

Been to this place twice now since it opened. The first time I went during the day time, the server was phenomenal! Very sweet and attentive. However, I just came in to have dinner tonight and I got the opposite, if not, the worst service here. I sat down at a table, a few people walked in and since I realized they all went to the hot food display, I thought maybe I needed to order from there. After 5 minutes, I got up, ordered from one of the MANY counter people behind the hot display and explained I was dining in. I then go sit down with my boyfriend, and I wait for the young lady to bring me the food I just ordered, but nothing… after sitting for maybe 10 mins another server comes out to the floor, sees me and asks if we are ready to order. I explained I ordered with the young lady behind the counter already. So the server goes to the girl, and the girl couldn’t even remember what I ordered EVEN THOUGH it was literally a short while ago. The nice server came back to apologise but honestly, if i was already waiting 15 minutes from the moment I walked in for a plate that is ALREADY cooked, just needs to be served, i will not wait any longer. All in all… if this place is going to have SO MANY people behind the counter as servers, then one needs to remain on the floor, ALWAYS. I understand it’s a new place but there needs to be structure. Not a good second impression.

5 Stars – Absolutely Phenomenal Service & Food! I’m so happy I stopped by this location! My fiancé and I are huge fans of the Malecón food chain—especially the Bronx locations—so we decided to try this one, and it did NOT disappoint. From the moment we walked in, everyone from the counter to the kitchen staff was incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive. One of the rotisserie chickens wasn’t ready just yet, and while we waited for it to finish, the staff kindly asked if we wanted a drink or even an empanada on the house. That level of hospitality meant so much to us. In a world where some places charge you extra just to get a bit of sauce, it was refreshing to experience genuine customer care. It’s not just about the food (which was AMAZING—pollo guisado, rotisserie chicken, rice and beans, potato salad… all delicious!), it’s about how you’re treated. And here? You’re treated like family. You can feel that they care about their customers, not just the transaction. That alone will keep us coming back. Thank you to the whole team—you made our experience memorable, and I’ll be back soon for another plate!

The Cuban sandwich does not match the quality of the one in Washington Heights. The pork and the sandwich was incredibly dry. They don't use pernil. No flavor and barely comes close to the portions that they offer in the Washington heights location. The set up also looks like a cafeteria as opposed to a restaurant. Stick to the one in the Heights if you're looking for quality.

Food is phenomenal! Staff is amazing, I was in and out within minutes with one of the best dinners of my life! Will def come back

Honestly this is exactly what I expect great authentic Caribbean (Dominican) restaurant. If you don’t like it than you’re not used to the culture and that’s okay. Stick to what you know no complains from me

The oxtail was life! They were so courteous and very professional. I ate everything to the last piece of rice!

I went to eat there with my family the waitress had a huge attitude, there was a piece of metal in my food and thank god I didn’t swallow it, first and last time I go into this restaurant, the service was terrible, and I do not recommend anyone eating at this place!

I had to write another review. I don't understand how these people keep the quality control. The deliciousness is consistent. It's extremely affordable I was able to feed 4 people for 40 dollars. This place is god sent. And this is coming from an atheist

The food is really good, the chicken is very tasteful. The service was very nice and the place look very nice, comfortable and organized

I just had to patronize one of my favorite restaurants. I've been to both locations on Amsterdam and Washington Heights both have been amazing. This location is brand new. Last night I did it. I came in reluctantly debating my options. It was between this, dinosaur bbq, or cantina. It was around 10pm so I was concerned about how fresh & good the food would be to near to their closing at 11. So Malecon won. Got this half chicken with rice and peas. They piled my rice up to the top. At first I was like "where are they going to put my chicken?" In another container of course. The service was great. No complaints. I got takeout. I made a pit stop at the market to get simply lemonade and home. The food was lit. Chicken was tender and flavorful with a great skin. I was so mad I didn't get a whole. Rice was on point too. Got a side of their garlic sauce and a sauce they use for their empanadas. The garlic sauce hit for the roast chicken. My dinner last night and today (cause I have leftover rice and peas) was good.

The best Rotisserie chicken I've ever eaten . I love the food, atmosphere and friendly customer service. Perfect location. 1 block from 145th Street #1 station.