When people ask why New Yorkers don’t leave New York, the answer is simple: there is no need. I mean, when you can walk down a block and feel as though you have passed about a hundred restaurants offering authentic cuisine from all different cultures, why buy the plane ticket? 

And though we can (and frequently do) take a global dining tour every day, how often do we really take the time to stop and think about the cultures being represented and the hard work that goes into showcasing such a diverse array of culinary tradition? Well, it’s about time we do. 

I’d like to start by acknowledging some of my favorite Hispanic and Latino owned restaurants in New York (although, by no means does this list even begin to scratch the surface of all those out there in the city - consider this the start of your bucket list).

[Photo via Casa Ora]