New Dominican restaurant Punta Cana Dominican Grill opens in Westbury

Joining Long Island's growing cadre of Dominican eateries is Punta Cana Dominican Grill in Westbury. Executive chef-owner John Romero, who was born in the United States, said he got the recipes from watching his Dominican-born mother and grandmother cook.

The counter-serve spot, with an array of steam-table items, has seating for about 16 and does a lot of takeout business. A few dishes, like mofongo (garlicky mashed plantains) and grilled whole red snapper, are made to order. The menu also includes such items as fried chicken chunks; mofongo with chicken, pork or beef; pernil, or Dominican pulled pork; grilled chicken breast with onions and peppers as well as tacos and burgers. Nothing tops $10, except for larger family-style combos.

Punta Cana Dominican Grill is at 162 Post Ave., Westbury, 516-280-4099, puntacanagrillny.com.