Yesterday, I went to visit Casita Rincón Criollo at E 157th Street and Brook Avenue in the Bronx. I have been wanting to visit ever since we had a presentation at The New School from City Lore, where they presented their website "Place Matters." It is an organization dedicated to documenting and preserving special places in New York City, those possessing significant history related to many different cultures.

Casita Rincón Criollo stood out to me because it is resonant of the culture of my family and me. It is a space that is reminiscent of Puerto Rico's countryside. I invited my boyfriend along because both of us are of Puerto Rican descent. We had a very pleasant experience. A gentleman there gave us a tour of the space, telling us stories related to his gardening and all of the work he's contributed over the years. He was very welcoming and made us feel like family. He even invited us back for a Mother's Day cookout!

Here is more info about the space! https://www.placematters.net/node/1445

Map of Puerto Rico embellished with Taíno symbols.