The South American country of Uruguay is small in size . . . but with a beautiful coastline, good wines, and more than anything world famous quality beef. In New York "the" Uruguayan of choice is El Chivito D'Oro, located in Jackson Heights, "The Golden Goat" (and no one I spoke with seemed to know how it got that name) for twenty-five years has been serving up outlandishly savory grilled meats in a lively setting.

Contrary to popular belief they do allow vegetables into the restaurant and they as well offer an array of pasta dishes. But here MEAT is KING. My favorite is the Entrada (Skirt Steak) "for 2." Yes, I do sound gluttonous, but the steak is just so delicious especially when applied with the green chimichuri sauce. And, the dish is cost effective as well, the cost for "Entrada for 1" is $21, "for 2" it is $31. The dish comes with rice and beans.

Before my entree arrives (the Entrada) a loaf of warm bread and two sauces in brought to my table. The chimichuri (green) and the onion/tomato (red) tastes very good plied to the bread. Almost sacrilegious that the beer is Quilmes from neighboring Argentina, but the waitress explained to me that Uruguay's leading beer Nortena is not very good, and the customers do enjoy Quilmes. I enjoyed the taste very much as well.

Those dining at El Chivito D' Oro are mostly from Uruguay and they come in large groups and enjoy having a good time. When there is a football (soccer) on the TV, especially against rival Argentina the place gets rollicking. 

El Chivito D' Oro has an excellent collection of vintage black&white photographs of memorable soccer matches and Montevideo, the country's capital and largest city.

Uruguay is the fourth largest wine producing country in South America, and the restaurant houses some impressive bottles; such as, Marcichal Tannat, Las Brujas, and Nampe. However, I was disappointed that they do not pour any Uruguayan wines by the glass, and had to settle with a Californian Cabernet Sauvignon.

Carla (left) and Wanda waitresses at El Chivito D'Oro. Yes, they will explain the menu, and just as important instill with passion the glories of their home country, Uruguay.

Uruguay (Spanish) language lesson - "Hello" (Hola) "Thank you" (Gracias) "Delicious" (Delisioso)

Interesting fact about Uruguay - 88% of the population is of European descent. This is the highest of any country in South America.

Address - 8402 37th Avenue Jackson Heights (Queens) (7180424 - 0600.