Despaña Gourmet Queens

Gourmet grocery store · East Elmhurst

Despaña Gourmet Queens

Gourmet grocery store · East Elmhurst

86-17 Northern Blvd, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

4 Postcards

Highlights

Nestled in Jackson Heights, Despaña is a charming spot where you can score authentic Spanish goods, from chorizo to saffron, and enjoy delightful tastings each Saturday.

86-17 Northern Blvd, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Get directions

despanabrandfoods.com

@despananyc

@onthegrid

"Despana began as a chorizo factory back in 1971 and now distributes gourmet Spanish ingredients around the world. The Jackson Heights location remains the original spot where the chorizo is still being made. The tiny storefront is deceptive considering the number of products they are able to stock. They carry a large assortment of Spanish cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, canned seafood including clams, baby squid, tuna, pickled peppers, olives, turron, paella rice, and of course saffron. Every Saturday, the owner, Marcos Intriago is there greeting customers, pouring wine and offering samples of aged meats, cheese and housemade specialties." - Diane Shaw

On the Grid : Despaña

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@onthegrid

"Despaña, Jackson Heights by Diane Shaw. Despana began as a chorizo factory back in 1971 and now distributes gourmet Spanish ingredients around the world. The Jackson Heights location remains the original spot where the chorizo is still being made. The tiny storefront is deceptive considering the number of products they are able to stock. They carry a large assortment of Spanish cheeses, cured meats, olive oil, canned seafood including clams, baby squid, tuna, pickled peppers, olives, turron, paella rice, and of course saffron. Every Saturday, the owner, Marcos Intriago is there greeting customers, pouring wine and offering samples of aged meats, cheese and housemade specialties."

Queens

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@eater

"For the friend who may had their travel plans squashed by COVID concerns, why not surprise them with some vacation-worthy goodies from a store specializing in top-tier Spanish ingredients." - Emma Orlow

Where to Buy Last-Minute Food Gifts in NYC - Eater NY

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@eater

"Originally a chorizo factory, this Jackson Heights institution has been importing Spanish specialty food products since 1971. The store carries some unique brands that represent a vast breadth of Spain, including Cabo de Peñas from Galicia, Don Bocarte from Cantabria, and Agromar from Asturias — many establishments around town source their conservas from Despaña. In 2006, the company opened an offshoot location in Soho, where there’s a boutique grocery store and tapas cafe that hosts one of the city’s largest selections of Güeyu Mar products." - David Neimanis

The Best Places to Eat Tinned Fish in NYC - Eater NY

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Joseph Grosso

Google

Quality products from Spain. Queens location is only open a couple of days per week. Unfortunately, I was not able to use my gift certificate at location. Was told that it could only be used online. Disappointing! Update December 2023: Contacted Despana’s Executive Office, they were able to allow me to use my gift certificate and pick up meats and sweets at their Queens warehouse.

Sheena Vo

Google

Yes, yes, yes to supporting local businesses. This place is a gem with incredibly helpful staff. The selection of goods and quality are superb! This is my go-to when I need to make an impressive charcuterie board b/c the meats and cheeses are always a hit. Plus, they sell one of my fave small sardines in olive oil. Small shop, reasonable prices, great staff!

Hilda Ballero

Google

Loved some of the products such as extra virgin olive oil and chorizo. Was not thrilled with the Serrano ham. It was impossible to separate the slices of ham. It was impossible to enjoy. For the price of 14.00 for 2 ounces, I rather get imported Prosciutto for 24.00 a pound, easy to have them put paper between the layers and eat it paper thin.

Patricia Fernández

Google

High quality Spanish products and amazing customer service! I ordered a gift box and some other items online to surprise my sister for her birthday, and their team (Judith in particular) were extremely helpful and responsive. They timed the delivery so it'd get there on her actual birthday, and they helped me add a custom note. Everything arrived in perfect condition!

Daniel Garcia

Google

I ordered 2 platters last Year for our Christmas Eve celebration. One was focused on cheeses and condiments and the other was focused on different meats. My family was over the moon. The food was some much better than we had hoped for. The display was beautiful and the freshness and flavors were perfect. I can’t thank Despana enough for helping me create a new staple to our Holiday season.

cesar leon

Google

Great place for imported provisions from Spain. Even though it's a little expensive it's worthwhile to treat yourself. With the pandemic you're only allowed 2 people at a time, it used to be a place to gather, talk and meet people while sampling their products. Love this place and I hope one day gets back to normal

Sean

Google

A wonderful place for authentic Spanish foods. On Saturdays you can expect to be able to sample some of them set out as Tapas accompanied with a glass of wine. Whenever we feel like doing up a paella we always buy our ingredients here. A fantastic place. ¡Buen Provecho!

Cesar Mendoza

Google

I walked in last weekend knowing nothing about cheese but this delightful young man named Eric helped me better understand. His expertise on all different kind of cheese was exquisite. I walked out a happy customer props to Eric for his recommendations

Joseph Grosso

Google

Sheena Vo

Google

Hilda Ballero

Google

Patricia Fernández

Google

Daniel Garcia

Google

cesar leon

Google

Sean

Google

Cesar Mendoza

Google

Mickey W.

Yelp

Great resource for authentic Spanish food items, like chorizos, paella rice, etc. Seem to have limited hours now, but that's an easy adjustment.

Kathy C.

Yelp

Go in with no expectations, they will be exceeded. You're not walking in for the shopping experience, customer service, or impressive environment. You are there for 10-15 min of immersion, like a portal providing access to shelves full of things you need to travel to Spain to get, period. Iberico ham, Salchichón, Manchego. If you're a fan of codfish, snag a can of piquillo peppers stuffed with cod, or grab a jar of beautiful olives, olive oil or olive spread - everything is reasonably priced. Don't skip the Ines Rosales Tortas, for a bite that will hold you over until travel is back.

Mercedes C.

Yelp

Not to say that our favorite Spanish restaurant- Sevilla isn't any good, but I've been on an on again/off again quest to look for other authentic Spanish options. In so doing, Despaña the restaurant on Broome St.- came up immediately and noticed that my original review (almost 4 years ago), was posted and really intended for Despaña Brand Foods location in Queens...not for the restaurant. My husband and I visited Mallorca years ago and all we had during our week-long vacation was Paella, Sangria and Almond Torte- on repeat. And knew that once we'd get back home, that we should look for Spanish restaurants. But, we stumbled on Despaña Brand Foods (Market) in Queens. Once there from what I remember, Despaña Market is small with a variety of Spanish products. We bought 1/2 pound of Queso Mahón and about the same of Manchego, a can of Sardines and a jar of Artichokes. A little pricey but you're getting authentic- right? We thought we would run into a market with loads and loads of Olives in barrels- but... we didn't. I guess it's just my preference for pick-your-own-Olives. The majority of their Spanish products are jarred- and thought buying a few canned or jarred products to complement what I'm cooking. Service from I also remember was fine. The person answered some questions and provided us with some feedback on their products. I can't think of many (if not any) Spanish markets anywhere and really like what Despaña is offering. We've always pictured ourselves visiting other parts of Spain and sampling more of their cuisine. I think right now is very good reminder that I should have dinner at Despaña in SoHo.

Doreen L.

Yelp

I was hoping to get some fresh, sliced jamon serrano on this particular day while passing through Queens. Imagine my disappointment when I discovered that they only sell pre-packaged jamon here. NOOOOO. It killed me, but I bought one of the pre-packaged items anyway, which did the trick. However, it just wasn't the same. I did find out that the city location does cut meat, so if you can make it there, it's probably the better (yet pricier) option. Despite that setback, it's a nice little shop in the middle of Northern Boulevard and I was glad to finally visit. It was cool inside (temperature-wise) and there were plenty of items to choose from. I ended up grabbing a container of Cola Cao before I left, because, of course.

Krista M.

Yelp

Stepping into Despana is a unique experience. Walking in, the store is small. Along the back wall there were plates filled with various cheeses, meats, olives and breads. While we were hovering looking over the goods, a man came up to us and handed us a plastic cup and poured some wine. OK, sure, why not. Then you work your way through all the samples that are laid out. Once you've had your fill turn around to the front of the store and purchase some of the items you sampled. Such a unique unexpected experience. Not to mention the items are quite good, my favorite was the chorizo picante.

Rose C.

Yelp

So check this out. From the outside, you can't tell a thing about this place. Would never think to walk in here. But a friend went last Sat. and loved it so I decided to check it out. Inside is teeny, tiny shop with imported goods from Spain. On Saturdays, they have free samples of cheeses, olives, chorizos, hams and they give you wine to wash it down!!! So 1:30pm on Saturday I'm sampling, I'm drinking, I'm laughing and talking to strangers like I'm at a cocktail party. How cool is that!!!! So I bought me some vinegar, olive oil, cheese and olives. Great!

Deirdre L.

Yelp

Although it is small, this is an excellent shop. The staff is ALWAYS friendly. They have delicious products. However, you have to buy them in bulk. It is definitely worth the trip to come here, as this place is an EXPERIENCE. I wish I lived closer. Otherwise, I would be here every week. Maybe that is a good thing.

Alison M.

Yelp

I've been dying to come here for so long, finally went yesterday with my friends for samples and wine- it lived up to it's reputation. I felt like I was back in Spain. The small, warm, happy atmosphere... The wall shelves packed with canned tins of anchovies, octopus, peppers. So many types of cheeses and chorizo, jamón, everything looks so enticing! The service is great, friendly and happy to recommend products. We bought a bunch of stuff and had a tapas party at home after! They don't sell wine here but there's an adorable wine shop right next door. I will be back, Saturdays are the best!

George C.

Yelp

Dropped by on a Monday afternoon for their very good chorizo (the young staffer did a poor job explaining, or trying to, the difference between the varieties they make in house...be sure you're sure you're getting their product as they carry a lot of other meats). Per NYT 8/15 = Saturday tastings Samples of cheeses, breadsticks and sausages Closed Sundays SoHo location too

Lizzie F.

Yelp

Great family run business with delicacies from Spain. All the chorizo and Jamon a person could want. This is a pork lovers paradise. I came in for a holiday basket that is made to order and my recipients were not disappoint. The good review they gave me made me have to and get one of my own !

Harvey C.

Yelp

I like this store a lot. They have many imported ingredients from Spain for your cooking needs(see my pics): a) bomba rice b) calasparra rice c) hot sauces: i picked up 2 at 6.50 each. It's not cheap, but they're pretty good if you want to step up your special entree with some gourmet spice. I won't go into details as to how they are because hot sauce analysis can be very subjective. But give them a try if you need some quality stuff or don't have the time to make your own. d) saffron e) many more!!! FYI: I would have given this place 4 stars, but there was a bit of a problem with the bomba rice. It might be a good idea to check rice after opening...

Marisol C.

Yelp

This tiny shop is everything Spanish and delicious. I came here on a Saturday to pick up some chorizo for my friend's wine tasting party. I was greeted with a glass of red wine, the gentleman gave me a generous pour to which we cheered too. I was already in love. On Saturdays they have a tasting, with samples of; cheese, chorizo, sausage, bread, olive oil, chocolate, truffles. Everything was tasty and high quality and I wanted to buy it all. But I stuck to my original plan, I picked up regular chorizo and spicy chorizo. The ambiance was very casual and there was a nice group enjoying the samples, it was a very relaxed place to be and you weren't rushed to buy anything or leave. I plan to come and check out more of their products, most likely on a Saturday.

Gigi R.

Yelp

I loveeee d España ! Delicious picaduras!!! And talk about wine all the time ! They're great! Such a cute little spot to have your drink on of wine !

Jamel O.

Yelp

I finally got around to going to Despana. I often miss it because I get home too late. I was very excited to go. When I went, the place was great. Unfortunately, after reading the stuff about the staff, I was disappointed that they were so disinterested in me that I felt like I should leave. However, I think their food and selection is pretty good. I got a Sausage to try and share with friends. It was great. I also sampled some pretty good cheeses. I didn't see Olives but read that they have some. I plan to go back and see as it would be great to have a place to get great olives that close to home.

Giselle R.

Yelp

Wholesale but you don't have to buy the entire ham. This place is great! The back is still factory but now they sell to the public instead of just to restaurants.Very lucky us! The items are 100% authentic spaniard fare. If you want to have a tapas party,which I did,this is the one and only place to pick up EVERYTHING you need. The meats and cheeses are vacuum sealed.There is a great assortment of olives and spreads and pretty much everything Espana. You can get all your paella ingredients and the pan in every size imaginable and even the Botas to drink your wine from. If a trek to Jackson Heights seems way harsh, check out their place on Broome street. Very boutique-y and sells more detailed/retail. Oh,and it does prepared foods for immediate yumminess. Ole'.

Francisco D.

Yelp

Great products with an amazing quality. Service is always excellent. Every Saturday they do tastings of a lot of their products. I recommend them very highly as it is one of the most amazing places in the neighborhood. Love Despana brand.

BubbleGum B.

Yelp

21 October 2017 Lovely place and the staff is very friendly staff. The products are of very good quality. On Saturdays they have a tasting with an assortment of chorizos, sausages, cheeses, and olives. We really appreciated this because by sampling the products we were able to purchase which confidence knowing what we really liked. We went there for the "Jamon" ham and ended up buying all sorts of goodies: chorizos, cheeses, olives and ham. Let it be known that all products are pre-packaged and nothing is sliced to order. They have sliced hams and chorizos, but in sealed packages. Just wanted to let everyone know in case you are imagining a deli style shop where you can order items by the pound to be sliced.

Paul B.

Yelp

Nice selection of Spanish products (Spanish as in from Spain not Latin America) Chorizo I had was not as flavorful as I had hoped but I'll give them the benefit of the doubt, maybe I chose the wrong variety. Certainly not cheap but it's great to have a place with such awesome selection of quality goods just a block away.

Marie D.

Yelp

Stopped by on a Saturday afternoon and thought I stepped into an after-hours rave. The tiny place was jam packed, and a huge spread was set out while glasses of red wine were flowing. My husband and I bought several Spanish delicacies and left there drunk. Good food and good times!

Ref R.

Yelp

Good products...visited on 5/27 early morning...the woman behind the counter has zero sales skills...could have sold us a lot of things...she certainly had no interest...no hello - no goodbye--a couple of yes and no...not even a smile. !!

Jeff L.

Yelp

Love Despana! Their wholesale division is GREAT. Top customer service. Polite and very prompt. A pleasure to do business with. And the food speaks for itself.

David R.

Yelp

Go here on a Saturday and you'll walk out with a buzz as they like to make you drink wine there as you sample the goods. No complaints here! Great chorizo, great manchego, and those tasty white vinegary anchovies.

Federico S.

Yelp

i get my chorizo, sheep and goat cheese and the jamon from this place and everything is good, fair prices too

Elizabeth M.

Yelp

Very cute store full of Spanish products. You can sample lots of the meats and cheeses on Saturdays, as well as healthy pours of red Spanish wines.

Rachel G.

Yelp

We stopped into this tiny store today after hearing about the Saturday cheese and chorizo tastings. What a great find! There was also wine, which the welcoming staff poured freely and encouraged us to drink. I didn't try the chorizo because I don't eat pork (the boyfriend said they were good but not spicy enough), but the cheese samples were heavenly. My favorite was probably the raw milk manchego, but unfortunately I don't have a ton of money to spend on cheese at the moment (they ran between $12 and $18 per pound). Instead I got a $3.50 5 oz. log of goat's milk cheese, which I haven't tried yet but am imagining will be great. I'd definitely recommend coming on a Saturday to try out some of the goods and to fulfill all of your Spanish food needs.

Joey V.

Yelp

If you've been to the location in Manhattan, don't think this location on Northern Blvd is anything similar. This is a small hole in the wall with room only for a few people to stand. But still, all the beautiful imported from Espana products are here. I bought a tin of paprika that I'm very happy with. The girl working was extremely personable

Alison P.

Yelp

love this place. great cheese. great service. hidden gem!

R. C.

Yelp

I wish I'd known about this place before, they carry good Spanish chorizo and stuffed olives.

Rob M.

Yelp

Great products. Great service. Incredible environment to shop. It's a small little store that gives you samples of everything and the products are top notch. It is why Queens is the supreme borough.

PR S.

Yelp

Jackson Heights, Great small hole in the wall. I purchased rice, cheese, ham, sweet and hot chorizo, Both chorizos are as good as any restaurant gives you in a paella. The hot chorizo was mild hot. I used them for a paella. They gave cheese, chorizo, ham and other goodies to the customers, with wine. Check the expiration date before making a purchase. Friendly, courteous and knowledgeable staff.

@onthegrid

On the Grid : Despaña

Where to Buy Last-Minute Food Gifts in NYC - Eater NY

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@eater

The Best Places to Eat Tinned Fish in NYC - Eater NY

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Joseph Grosso

Google

Sheena Vo

Google

Hilda Ballero

Google

Patricia Fernández

Google

Daniel Garcia

Google

cesar leon

Google

Sean

Google

Cesar Mendoza

Google

Joseph Grosso

Google

Sheena Vo

Google

Hilda Ballero

Google

Patricia Fernández

Google

Daniel Garcia

Google

cesar leon

Google

Sean

Google

Cesar Mendoza

Google

Mickey W.

Yelp

Great resource for authentic Spanish food items, like chorizos, paella rice, etc. Seem to have limited hours now, but that's an easy adjustment.

Kathy C.

Yelp

Mercedes C.

Yelp

Doreen L.

Yelp

Krista M.

Yelp

Rose C.

Yelp

Deirdre L.

Yelp

Alison M.

Yelp

George C.

Yelp

Lizzie F.

Yelp

Harvey C.

Yelp

Marisol C.

Yelp

Gigi R.

Yelp

I loveeee d España ! Delicious picaduras!!! And talk about wine all the time ! They're great! Such a cute little spot to have your drink on of wine !

Jamel O.

Yelp

Giselle R.

Yelp

Francisco D.

Yelp

BubbleGum B.

Yelp

Paul B.

Yelp

Marie D.

Yelp

Ref R.

Yelp

Jeff L.

Yelp

Love Despana! Their wholesale division is GREAT. Top customer service. Polite and very prompt. A pleasure to do business with. And the food speaks for itself.

David R.

Yelp

Federico S.

Yelp

i get my chorizo, sheep and goat cheese and the jamon from this place and everything is good, fair prices too

Elizabeth M.

Yelp

Very cute store full of Spanish products. You can sample lots of the meats and cheeses on Saturdays, as well as healthy pours of red Spanish wines.

Rachel G.

Yelp

Joey V.

Yelp

Alison P.

Yelp

love this place. great cheese. great service. hidden gem!

R. C.

Yelp

I wish I'd known about this place before, they carry good Spanish chorizo and stuffed olives.

Rob M.

Yelp

Great products. Great service. Incredible environment to shop. It's a small little store that gives you samples of everything and the products are top notch. It is why Queens is the supreme borough.

PR S.

Yelp