Local foodies flocked to Tribeca on Tuesday night to get a taste of orange-coated delicacies — such as “Flamin’ Hot Limón Chicken Tacos” and “Purrfectly Fried Green Tomatoes” — as the Cheetos pop-up restaurant kicked off its three-day stay in the Big Apple.
“I’m going to go die in a food coma on my couch right now,” said male model River Viiperi, just moments after devouring a Cheetos Sweetos Crusted Cheesecake, some Cheetos Sweetos Sweet and Salty Cookies — and a stack of White Cheddar Cheetos and Cheetos Sweetos Apple Crepes.
“Definitely not in my diet, but I had to try it,” he told The Post.
The Cheetos pop-up, dubbed “The Spotted Cheetah,” is located on West Broadway at Franklin St. inside the Distilled gastropub.
The menu — which includes Cheetos meatballs, Cheetos crusted fried pickles, and Flamin’ Hot and White Cheddar Mac n’ Cheetos — was created by celebrity chef Anne Burrell. Each of the eleven items range in price, from $8 to $22.
Most of those who dined at the restaurant on Tuesday night were surprised by how well-made the dishes were, as well as the eatery’s cheesetastically chic look.
“We thought it would be more cheesy inside — but it was a serious dining experience with good service and, like, mood lighting,” explained Sarah Roe, a 23-year-old Manhattanite who came with her friend, Caroline Meyerson, also 23.
“It was classy,” Meyerson gushed. “We had the macaroni topped with hot Cheetos. It was intense, but delicious…A lot of flavor…I couldn’t have a whole bowl, but it was delicious.”
Mary McGrath, 50, of Manhattan, gave her meal a 9 out of 10 — saying it was something she had always dreamed of.
“I love Cheetos,” she said. “If I’m going to the electric chair, I’m eating Cheetos.”
In addition to everyday food lovers, the pop-up also got a visit from singer Mariah Carey — who graced its Orange Carpet with twins, Moroccan and Monroe.
While most people enjoyed their experience, there were a small few who weren’t fans of the dangerously cheesy food mashups.
“It gets overwhelming after the third Cheeto dish,” admitted Nikki Banner, 24.
“I think for Cheetos fans it could be heaven. But for a regular person, too salty,” said 27-year-old Misty Lou, who scarfed down three appetizers and an entree.
“I give it a seven.”
The Spotted Cheetah will be open until Thursday. Hours are from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. — and diners are required to reserve their seats in advance.
While the pop-up reportedly sold out of spots ahead of Tuesday’s grand opening, it’s unclear if the same happened for the remaining two nights.
Those interested in going can make their reservation on the restaurant’s website.