By Anabell Kissel

If you’re looking for good food, where you can go hog wild without breaking the piggy bank, check out Mr. Crunchy in Lawrenceville!  Since opening in March, this restaurant has been serving up pig-themed decor and Caribbean cuisine. Its unique blend of traditional Dominican flavors and modern innovation makes it a perfect pick for this issue’s taste test. 

I dropped in with a few friends for lunch and we were immediately won over by the energetic interior. The walls are covered in murals and bright lights reading “Mr. Crunchy” shine down from above. We settled in and ordered drinks. For me, a bottle of raspberry soda, and for my friend, a house piña colada, which to our delight was served with an umbrella, cherries and a tiny floating pig. 

This was only the beginning of Mr. Crunchy’s impressive plating. The Guacamole Crunch, a delicious balance of creamy guacamole and crunchy pork, is served in a cup crowned with a lime and two crispy pork cracklings. The Peppa Pig Roll, one of their innovative Dominican sushis, is served in an adorable miniature sushi boat. I was hesitant to try pork-based sushi, but it was phenomenal, pairing avocado and crab with tender roasted pork, sweet plantains and crispy bacon. Even my bacon-hating friend surrendered to a delicious defeat and named the Peppa Pig her favorite dish of the night!

Along with their pleasing presentation, Mr. Crunchy’s dishes are known for their generous portions. The Grilled Chicken Lunch Special, a flavorful seasoned grilled chicken breast, is served with more warm, golden tostones than I could possibly take down. But this is nothing compared to the (aptly named) Giant Mofongo, a mountain of mashed fried plantains and toasted cheese, surrounded by Dominican sausage, pork cracklings, crispy fried chicken and pork chunks. It is nothing short of a Dominican feast, ideal for sharing with friends and family. 

It’s a mystery how I found room for dessert, but I’m glad I did because the Tres Leches nearly made me cry. Served with caramel drizzle and Oreo crumbles, this decadent cake was the flawless finale to an incredible meal. If you are looking for Instagram-worthy plates, traditional Dominican cuisine, or a meal that will feed your whole family, then go pig out at Mr. Crunchy.