Xelaju is a cherished, authentic gem in Jamaica, Queens, offering a delightful blend of Guatemalan and Spanish food. While the exterior is unassuming, stepping inside reveals a vibrant atmosphere adorned with Latin American culture, including bright paintings and authentic memorabilia. It’s a place where you can practice your Spanish, feel right at home, and experience cuisine bursting with authentic flavors and made with care. It’s a must-visit spot that many have enjoyed for years.
Services
Xelaju provides a range of convenient dining options for its community:
- Dine-In Experience: A warm atmosphere with soft Latin American music that enhances the experience without overpowering conversation.
- Takeaway & Delivery: Available via services like Uber Eats and GrubHub.
- Diverse Menu: Offers both traditional Guatemalan cuisine and other popular items like pizza, catering to various tastes.
- Hospitality: Known for its attentive and friendly staff and personalized service from the owner, Zulma.
Menu
The restaurant’s core strength lies in its flavorful, traditional dishes:
- Guatemalan Staples: Highly recommended dishes include the tamales, tacos chapines, and the rellenitos (sweet plantain turnovers).
- Main Plates: Delicious affairs featuring steak with flavorful rice and black beans and fresh salad.
- Breakfast: Offerings like eggs, bacon, and homefries are available.
- Baked Goods: Tasty snacks and sweet bread that perfectly complement the meals.
- Pizza: Often praised for being always fresh, with generous toppings and a perfectly cooked crust.
Benefits
- Authenticity: Food is authentic Guatemalan, perfect for those seeking a true taste of the region.
- Service: Excellent staff, who are always nice, polite, and friendly, ensuring a welcoming experience.
- Ambience: Vibrant interior reflecting Latin American culture, clean, and has a great atmosphere.
- Flavors: Every dish is delicious, perfectly seasoned, and the flavors are spot-on.
- Convenience: Great selection of dishes and decent prices, with the added benefit of closing late.
Testimonials
- Delicious: “The food was absolutely delicious—every dish we tried was bursting with authentic flavors and made with care.”
- Authentic: “Authentic Guatemalan food, good atmosphere, good price and great service. I have been coming here for years and enjoy all meals each time.”
- Excellent: “Great food and excellent staff. Never rude and always nice. Highly recommend.”
- Hospitality: “What made the experience even more special was the warm and attentive service from Zulma, the owner. Her hospitality made us feel right at home.”
- Reccomend: “The food it’s really good I like the place they are nice and polite I’m dominican I have never eaten this type of food before I recommend to come and eat”