A new restaurant has opened in Riverhead featuring fresh, authentic Mexican dishes made with traditional flavors.
Órale Grill (226 Riverleigh Ave., Riverhead, 631-770-0040) recently settled in on the Riverside traffic circle, offering traditional Mexican food made by owner Enrique Contreras.
“Órale” is a Mexican term that translates to ‘all right’ or ‘well done,’ an appropriate name for this appetizing addition to Riverhead’s dining scene.
Contreras, , who formerly worked as a chef in Mexico City, and his partner, Ecuador-born Juan Campoverde, joined forces to renovate the building, which was formerly a coffee shop. The bright, clean space is decorated with greenery, burlap coffee sack art and brand-new furniture, but it’s really the food that stands out.
“We try to show the traditional flavors of Mexico City,” says Contreras.
Their tortas, or Mexican sandwiches, are a standout.
“They are very popular in Mexico City with office workers,” says Contreras. “Everyone goes out for tortas together.”
Torta options include Al Pastor (roast pork), Carne Asada (roast meat), Cubana (a Cuban sandwich with two meats), Campechana (roast meat and sausage), Milanesa de Pollo o de Res (breaded chicken or steak), Jamon (ham) and the Hawaiian (pork with ham, pineapple and cheese). All are $11.50-$12.50.
There’s also a menu of tacos ($11.50), quesadillas ($13-16) and burritos ($14.50), as well as dishes like sopes, crisp fried masa corn bases with savory toppings ($12.50) that are fresh and delicious.
Breakfast is big at Órale Grill, with just about anything you could want made to order: pancakes, eggs, French toast and breakfast sandwiches ($9.50-12.50), as well as familiar Mexican breakfasts like chilaquiles verdes or rojos ($12.50-14) or huevos rancheros ($12.50). There are also banana, blueberry and strawberry smoothies ($7).
The restaurant has a pleasant patio with outdoor seating and lights, and as the weather warms, Contreras plans to barbecue al fresco on the weekends and make tacos on the flattop in summer. The restaurant will also expand its hours during the spring and summer.
Órale Grill is open from 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday.
