Mayahuel, a family-owned Mexican restaurant in Astoria, Queens, is redefining traditional Mexican desserts with its innovative use of masa (corn dough). Located at 32-07 34th Ave., the restaurant has been serving up a blend of traditional family recipes and modern culinary techniques since November 2022. Co-owners Ivan and Marc Vazquez, alongside Executive Chef Gerardo Duarte, have launched a new dessert menu that highlights the versatility of masa in sweet dishes. This new menu showcases the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and tradition.
Innovative Masa Desserts at Mayahuel
The new dessert menu at Mayahuel, launched in early March 2025, features locally milled corn sourced via Tamoa, a company that supports small Mexican farmers. Some of the highlight dishes include the Strawberry Tamale, a soft and steamed masa filled with strawberries, the Nicuatole Meringue, a modern take on the classic Oaxacan corn dessert topped with meringue, and the Masa Churros, served with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream. If you’re a fan of churros, you might enjoy exploring other creative dessert ideas like the Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies.
The Craft Behind Mayahuel’s Creations
Developing the masa-based desserts took two months of experimentation to perfect the flavor, texture, and presentation. Marc Vazquez highlights the complexity of the process, stating that it’s a very delicate process that requires a lot of labor to maintain the corn’s color. The restaurant emphasizes creativity while honoring the cultural significance of corn in Mexican cuisine. For those interested in experimenting with unique dessert recipes, consider submitting your favorite dessert to be featured on a site like Creme Filled Churros.
Corn: A Sacred Ingredient
Corn has been a staple in Mexican culture since ancient civilizations, playing a central role in traditional dishes. By using masa in desserts, Mayahuel elevates this humble ingredient, paying homage to its cultural and historical importance. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced corn supports small Mexican farmers and promotes sustainability. You can learn more about the latest dessert trends and creative uses of traditional ingredients on sites like Creme Filled Churros’ 2025 Dessert Trends.
Experience Mayahuel
Servers at Mayahuel introduce guests to available dessert options daily, encouraging them to explore new creations. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 11 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 5 PM to 11 PM. You can visit Mayahuel at 32-07 34th Ave., Astoria, or check out their website at mayahuelastoria.com for more information. Mayahuel also offers catering services and a stylish setting for events, making it a versatile dining destination. If you’re looking for unique dessert ideas for your next event, you might find inspiration in literary-themed desserts like those featured on Creme Filled Churros.
A Fresh Twist on Tradition
Mayahuel’s masa-based dessert menu is a testament to the restaurant’s ability to innovate while respecting tradition. Marc Vazquez notes that the restaurant is experimenting a lot with corn, which comes specifically from Mexico, to see what works and what doesn’t. This new menu invites diners to experience the richness of Mexican heritage in a unique way. For those looking to support local dessert shops or explore new dessert ideas, consider checking out directories like Creme Filled Churros’ Business Directory or shopping for themed apparel at Creme Filled Churros’ Shop.
By embracing traditional ingredients and modern techniques, Mayahuel is setting a new standard for Mexican desserts.