Top Mexican Restaurants in New York | Savor the Flavor
New York City is full of different Mexican restaurants that prove it has real Mexican food. You can find small taco places and fancy restaurants. They all show that New York has flavors to match California’s burritos and Texas’s Tex-Mex.
If you love tacos or seafood, New York’s food scene has something for you. The Bronx is especially known for great Mexican cuisine. Places like Anejo in Midtown are famous for dishes like octopus tostada. But, there are also great food spots in other parts of the city. This shows that New York is a great place for Mexican food lovers.
Introduction to New York’s Mexican Cuisine Scene
New York City is known for its great Mexican food. This ranges from simple dishes to complex regional specialties. The city is home to a large Mexican community, which has helped enrich the food scene.
After NAFTA was signed, more Mexicans moved to New York City. This growth slowed down lately. The rise of Pueblan food spots like bodega taquerías around 2000 marked a shift. Mexicans started running shops previously owned by Puerto Ricans and Dominicans, adding to the city’s taste of Mexico.
New York City boasts three Michelin-starred Mexican restaurants: Casa Enrique, Claro, and Oxomoco. New York has a lot of Mexican dishes but Poblano cuisine was once overlooked. Now, the taco placero from Puebla is found everywhere in the city. It shows Poblano food is finally getting the love it deserves.
Milepost Event | Detail |
---|---|
Mid-1980s | Chef Zarela Martinez pioneers high-end Mexican dining in NYC with her restaurant Zarela. |
2000 | Pueblan bodega taquerías started to become significant in NYC. |
2018 | Claro and Oxomoco receive Michelin stars. |
New York’s Mexican food scene ranges from fancy restaurants like Cosme to street food stands. This mix offers both locals and tourists a deep dive into Mexican culture and flavors. Everyone can find something they love, from gourmet dining to authentic street eats.
Best Taquerias in New York
Looking for top Mexican food in NYC? You must check out the city’s taquerias. They mix old and new to serve true Mexican dishes. These dishes showcase flavors from different regions.
Taqueria Ramirez
Taqueria Ramirez is known for real Mexican food. Inspired by Mexico City’s food scene, they offer delicious suadero tacos. These tacos are a mix of city and country flavors, loved by many.
A suadero taco here is about $5. You can add tasty crumbled chicharrón for an extra dollar.
For All Things Good
For All Things Good brings a new twist on Mexican food with Oaxacan dishes. Their unique feature is the house-made heirloom corn tortillas. Their focus on quality and traditional ingredients sets them apart.
The menu is full of Oaxacan tastes with items like tlayudas and tetelas. It’s a journey through flavors for those who love genuine Mexican food. They skillfully mix old and new tastes.
Establishment | Signature Tacos | Special Features | Average Price |
---|---|---|---|
Taqueria Ramirez | Suadero Tacos | Inspired by Mexico City’s street food | $5 each |
For All Things Good | Tlayudas, Tetelas | House-made heirloom corn tortillas | Varies |
Upscale Mexican Dining in NYC
New York City offers amazing upscale Mexican dining spots. They offer the best Mexican food you can find. Chefs mix classic flavors with their unique ideas to create wonderful dishes. These places make NYC’s food scene even better.
Cosme
If you’re looking for a fancy night out, Cosme is a perfect spot. Located in the city’s center, it shows off Chef Enrique Olvera’s talent. Must-tries include the duck carnitas and lobster al pastor. They’re known for their amazing taste and how they look.
The husk meringue filled with corn mousse is a unique dessert at Cosme. It’s loved for its creamy texture and sweetness.
Cosme’s menu is luxurious but worth it, especially for special events. Dishes like the cobia al pastor are generous. They have a great mix of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors that food lovers enjoy.
Casa Enrique
In Long Island City, Casa Enrique welcomes you with a cozy vibe. Despite having a Michelin star, it feels warm and personal. Chef Cosme Aguilar brings dishes from Chiapas, Puebla, and San Luis Potosí to NYC. The small seating area offers an intimate feel.
Casa Enrique’s menu features delicious items like mole oaxaqueño and tacos de suadero. The menu takes you on a trip through various Mexican regions. The recipes, handed down through generations, focus on true Mexican tastes. This makes Casa Enrique a top choice for experiencing superior Mexican cuisine in NYC.
Authentic Regional Mexican Eateries
The evolution of New York City’s Mexican restaurant scene is marked by the proliferation of authentic regional Mexican cuisine. This section highlights two standout establishments that bring traditional Mexican flavors in New York, epitomizing the city’s rich culinary diversity through time-honored recipes and cultural culinary practices.
Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile
Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile is a hidden gem celebrated for its meticulously crafted chalupas, a popular street food from Puebla. The culinary techniques and flavorful offerings here provide a genuine taste of traditional Mexican cuisine. The menu at El Tlecuile typically features chalupas filled with vibrant, robust flavors that transport diners straight to the heart of Puebla’s bustling streets. Each meal, affordably priced at around $10, shows how this eatery keeps true to authenticity.
La Morada
Recognized for popularizing Oaxacan cuisine in New York City, La Morada is a family-owned restaurant located in Mott Haven. The establishment is renowned for its complex mole dishes, particularly the mole oaxaqueño. This sauce embodies the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine. La Morada’s commitment to cultural traditions and its use of traditional cooking methods reflect the increasing demand for authentic Mexican cuisine. Such dedication helps diners experience profound regional flavors, deeply rooted in Oaxaca’s culinary heritage.
The presence of these eateries emphasizes the growing trend towards genuine and traditional Mexican flavors in New York. From El Tlecuile’s bustling Pueblan street food to La Morada’s Oaxacan culinary sophistication, New York’s Mexican food landscape continues to diversify. It offers a true taste of Mexico.
Mouth-Watering Seafood Specialties
The Mexican seafood scene is huge and colorful, especially in New York City. Ensenada and Mariscos El Submarino stand out for anyone who loves seafood. They are famous for serving top-tier Mexican cuisine.
Ensenada
If you adore real Mexican food, Ensenada is your go-to place. They grill their pescado del dia just right, making you feel like you’re by the Mexican sea. Their aguachiles is also a hit, with shrimp soaked in chili and lime. Visiting Ensenada means enjoying some of the finest Mexican dishes in NYC.
Mariscos El Submarino
Mariscos El Submarino is another must-visit spot in NYC for seafood. They’re famous for their mouthwatering Submarino ceviche. It’s packed with fresh fish, shrimp, and octopus, showcasing true Mexican flavors. The taste and appearance of their dishes make you feel like you’re in Mexico. Mariscos El Submarino is perfect for trying amazing Mexican cuisine.
In summary, both Ensenada and Mariscos El Submarino will give you a memorable experience of Mexican seafood. Diners in New York City craving authentic Mexican food will find these spots delightful.
Popular Mexican Restaurants in Manhattan
Manhattan is full of popular Mexican restaurants that everyone loves. These top places in NY range from simple street food to fancy meals. Let’s dive into some options you should definitely try.
Oso: Found in Harlem, Oso brings Mexico City’s street flavors to life. Chef Cassandra Rhodes makes amazing braised chicken enchiladas covered in queso Oaxaca. The price is reasonable ($$).
Cosme: Cosme is a fancy spot in the Flatiron District, run by Enrique Olvera. The duck carnitas, cooked and served in a cast iron skillet, are exceptional. It’s pricier ($$$$) but totally worth it.
Atla: Atla is a cozy spot near Washington Square Park with dishes that are a bit pricey ($$$). You have to try the Arctic char tostada because it’s full of taste and freshness.
Casa Enrique: With a Michelin star, Casa Enrique in Long Island City offers a true taste of Mexico. Chef Cosme Aguilar’s chicken enchiladas with mole de Piaxtla are outstanding. Plus, the prices are moderate ($$), so you can go often.
Covacha: Covacha is a new place known for its unique mix of flavors. The shrimp ajillo with hollandaise is a favorite among guests. It’s also moderately priced ($$), making it a must-visit.
These beloved Mexican restaurants in Manhattan showcase the rich variety of Mexican food. They also reflect the exciting food scene in the city. Whether you live here or are just visiting, these top spots promise a memorable food adventure.
Restaurant | Chef | Price Range | Key Dish |
---|---|---|---|
Oso | Cassandra Rhodes | $$ | Braised chicken enchiladas |
Cosme | Enrique Olvera | $$$$ | Duck carnitas |
Atla | Not specified | $$$ | Arctic char tostada |
Casa Enrique | Cosme Aguilar | $$ | Chicken enchiladas with mole de Piaxtla |
Covacha | Not specified | $$ | Shrimp ajillo with hollandaise |
Affordable Mexican Dishes in the East Village
The East Village shines as a food lover’s paradise, with over 30 restaurants offering vibrant, affordable Mexican meals. If you’re looking for diverse and tasty options, this neighborhood is perfect. Jo’s Taco, for example, has a menu that features six kinds of taco fillings like carne asada, al pastor, and shrimp. This variety shows the area’s love for traditional tastes and ensures plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Places like Yellow Rose mix things up by adding brunch items, such as breakfast tacos. Zaragoza keeps it exciting with daily specials, including unique dishes like meatballs with a quail egg inside.
The local street food scene is buzzing too. It includes dive bars on St. Marks that offer unique tacos for those who like to try new things. For those eating plant-based, Bar Verde serves up vegan versions of classic dishes, welcoming everyone with their menu.
La Palapa focuses on regional dishes from across Mexico, like cochinita pibil and mole negro. Downtown Burritos is great for those watching their wallets, offering tasty options like chicken enchiladas and large burritos. This makes it a top choice for those looking for delicious, affordable Mexican food in NYC.
Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile | Chalupas | ~$10 |
El Jalapeño | Late-night tacos | Varies |
Ensenada | Happy Hour Specials | $7-$12 |
Carnitas Ramirez | Pork tacos | Varies |
Long-standing spots like San Loco have been serving up authentic, wallet-friendly Mexican food since 1986. For a more upscale experience, places like Ixta and Cosme focus on Oaxacan dishes but still offer good value for group outings.
Whether you’re a big food fan or just curious, the East Village is the perfect spot for finding both affordable and genuine Mexican cuisine. It’s one of the best places in NYC for such food.
Traditional Mexican Flavors in Brooklyn
Brooklyn’s food scene is amazing for Mexican cuisine lovers. Restaurants like Claro and Oxomoco provide top Mexican dishes in NYC. They focus on traditional flavors using classic cooking styles and real ingredients.
Claro
Claro is a top pick for those seeking real Mexican tastes in New York. It’s famous for handmade tortillas and Oaxaca-inspired dishes. Each menu item celebrates local ingredients, crafted to maintain their true flavor and texture.
Customers love Claro for its vibe and food quality, calling it a top Mexican spot in NYC. Dishes like rich mole and tender barbacoa offer a memorable meal.
Oxomoco
Oxomoco stands out in Brooklyn’s Mexican food scene with its wood-fired dishes. They offer unique tacos with flank steaks and lamb barbacoa. It’s among the best for Mexican cuisine in NYC.
The lively setting and real flavors at Oxomoco attract both locals and tourists. Its use of fresh ingredients and new recipes capture true Mexican tastes in New York.
Prices for dishes at Claro and Oxomoco match Brooklyn’s average for Mexican cuisine. Tacos cost between $3.50 and $6.00; enchiladas are $14.00 to $20.00. Margaritas range from $12.00 to $18.00. These prices show the quality and authenticity both places offer, ensuring a great dining experience.
Best Places for Breakfast & Brunch
New York’s culinary scene offers great breakfast and brunch spots. Comedor and La Contenta are top Mexican places that blend traditional flavors with a morning’s relaxed feel. Explore these favorites for an unforgettable brunch in New York.
Comedor
Comedor is in New York’s heart, offering a unique breakfast menu. It mixes Mexican traditions with modern cooking, making dishes like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. This place is great for brunch with friends, thanks to its welcoming space and Mexican hospitality.
La Contenta
La Contenta is a must-visit for brunch in New York. Located in the Lower East Side, it’s known for tasty dishes like enchiladas suizas and breakfast burrito. They use fresh ingredients, ensuring an authentic Mexican taste. The cozy atmosphere and great service make everyone feel at home.
Restaurant | Specialty Dish | Location | Price Point |
---|---|---|---|
Comedor | Chilaquiles | Bed Stuy | $$ |
La Contenta | Enchiladas Suizas | Lower East Side | $$ |
Mile End | Smoked Meats | Borough Heights | $ |
Chez Ma Tante | Pancake Stack | Williamsburg | $$ |
Russ & Daughters Cafe | Classic Bagel Sandwich | 179 East Houston St | $$ |
Checking out these top Mexican brunch spots in NY is a great way to start your day. The city that never sleeps has much to offer for morning meals.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
New York City’s Mexican food scene is incredible. It has famous spots and secret finds. Places like Tacos El Bronco and El Atoradero are unforgettable. They perfectly bring traditional Mexican tastes to New York.
Tacos El Bronco
In Brooklyn, Tacos El Bronco is a top choice for Mexican food. People love it for its big taco menu. The taco árabe shows how Mexican and Lebanese flavors can mix. Every dish here is made with care, showing the true taste of Mexico.
El Atoradero
El Atoradero, in the Bronx, offers amazing Mexican flavors. It’s a cozy place that feels like true Mexico. You can enjoy everything from tacos to comfort foods full of tradition. They make corn tortillas in a special way, making every bite deliciously Mexican.
Whether you live here or are just visiting, trying these Mexican places in Brooklyn and more is a must. El Bronco and El Atoradero offer a range of Mexican dishes. They show the creativity and love that go into Mexican cooking.
Mexican Restaurants New York: Myths and Realities
Some people think Mexican Restaurants in New York only serve simple dishes like tacos and quesadillas. But New York’s food scene shows that’s not true. The city has many places that serve different authentic Mexican dishes from all 32 states in Mexico. For example, some restaurants take days to make perfect mole sauce, showing the high-quality and traditional approach to Mexican food.
It’s a common mistake to expect Mexican food in New York to be cheap. This thought ignores the use of quality ingredients that can make dishes pricier. Dishes often include local Mexican items like queso fresco instead of American alternatives which can increase their cost.
Not all Mexican food is spicy. Chili peppers are used more to enhance flavor than to make dishes hot. Also, Mexican cuisine has evolved with influences from other cultures, like Lebanese, making it even more diverse.
Some believe Mexican cuisine is unhealthy because of high calories and large portions. But, there are lots of healthier options too. Dishes with grilled meats and fresh veggies show how Mexican food can be both healthy and vibrant.
In New York, many Mexican restaurants offer authentic experiences, not just fusion dishes. They serve regional specialties, showing the wide range of Mexican cuisine. With dozens of pepper types and various tortillas, the choices are rich and true to Mexican traditions.
- Dispelling myths about the limited scope of Mexican cuisine.
- Highlighting the exceptional ingredients and preparation methods.
- Providing healthier, non-spicy, and diverse dish options.
- Emphasizing the adaptation and evolution of Mexican food.
- Offering various regional specialties beyond mainstream dishes.
The array of Mexican restaurants in New York showcases an authentic and varied culinary scene. This proves Mexican cuisine is more than just the stereotypes suggest.
Conclusion
New York City shines as a lively center for Mexican food. It has countless dining places that suit everyone’s taste. You can enjoy fancy meals at Cosme or Casa Enrique. Or try street food from hidden spots like Tacos El Bronco. Across the city, Mexican restaurants take you on a delicious adventure.
In New York City, as of summer 2020, there are 977 Mexican restaurants out of 27,556. This is about 3.5% of all restaurants. The number of Mexicans in New York grew 160% from 1980 to 1990. This growth adds to the city’s exciting food scene. Places like Ensenada and Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile offer unique tastes and stories.
Since 1991, salsa sales have beat ketchup. And the ’90s saw a surge in tortilla popularity. This shows how much America loves Mexican food. The number of Mexican restaurants in the U.S. increased by 58% from 1985 to 1994. New York’s top Mexican spots blend well-loved dishes with new flavors. Every corner of the city invites you to explore and enjoy Mexican cuisine.
FAQ
What are some of the best Mexican restaurants in New York?
Top picks in New York for Mexican food include Cosme, Casa Enrique, and Taqueria Ramirez. These places mix upscale and authentic dishes. They truly showcase the best of Mexican cuisine.
Where can I find the best traditional Mexican flavors in New York?
Visit Chalupas Poblanas El Tlecuile and La Morada for genuine Mexican flavors. These spots focus on offering a real taste of Mexico.
Are there any affordable Mexican restaurants in the East Village?
Yes, the East Village has many affordable Mexican spots. You can enjoy quality food there without spending a lot. Look for local favorites for great value.
Which are the must-try Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn?
Claro and Oxomoco in Brooklyn are must-visits. They are known for their unique takes on Mexican cuisine. These places promise unforgettable meals.
Where can I find popular Mexican restaurants in Manhattan?
In Manhattan, popular spots like Cosme and Casa Enrique serve amazing Mexican food. They offer a sophisticated dining experience.
What are the best places for Mexican breakfast and brunch in New York?
For Mexican breakfast or brunch, check out Comedor or La Contenta. They are loved for their tasty morning dishes. These spots bring out the best in Mexican breakfast cuisine.
Are there any hidden gems and local favorite Mexican restaurants in New York?
Sure, Tacos El Bronco and El Atoradero are hidden gems. They might not be very famous but their food and flavors are exceptional.
What myths and realities surround Mexican restaurants in New York?
A common myth is New York lacks authentic Mexican food. But the truth is, many places serve real dishes and traditional flavors. This shows New York’s Mexican culinary scene is vibrant.