New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and the food scene is no exception. From street vendors selling hot dogs to fine dining establishments serving up Michelin-starred cuisine, there is something for everyone.
When it comes to Mexican food, the city is home to a plethora of options ranging from traditional taquerias to upscale Mexican-inspired restaurants.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start your culinary adventure. That's where we come in.
We've scoured the city to find the best Mexican restaurants, each with its own unique twist on classic dishes. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or churros, we've got you covered.
Our list includes both well-known favorites and hidden gems that you may not have heard of before. We've also made sure to include restaurants that cater to different budgets, so you can indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine no matter what your wallet allows.
So, get ready to discover the best Mexican restaurants in New York City, and prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion.
1. LOS MARISCOS
LOS MARISCOS is a bustling Mexican seafood restaurant that offers a variety of delicious tacos, ceviches, and aguachiles.
The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with fun picnic tables and a range of hot sauces to enjoy with your food.
The menu is affordable and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the drinks menu offers a range of Mexican beers and cocktails to complement your meal. Highly recommended for anyone looking for authentic Mexican seafood in a fun and casual setting.
2. La Chilaqueria New York
La Chilaqueria New York offers some of the best authentic chilaquiles in the city. The green chilaquiles are a must-try and the coffee is also great.
The staff is attentive and creates a welcoming atmosphere where customers and staff converse in Spanish.
The owners, Poncho and Susana, are always on hand to ensure a great overall experience.
If you're looking for a niche Mexican restaurant, La Chilaqueria New York is worth a visit.
3. Ponche Taqueria
Ponche Taqueria is a cozy Mexican restaurant that offers delicious Tex-Mex style dishes at an affordable price.
The food is flavorful and fresh, with generous serving sizes that will leave you satisfied. The staff are friendly and provide quick service.
The restaurant is a hidden gem, tucked away off the main street. It's perfect for a pre-Broadway show meal or a casual night out with friends.
Highly recommended for those looking for authentic Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.
4. Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place is a hidden gem for Mexican food in the city.
The atmosphere is casual with a bar and table service. The food is delicious and authentic with a wide selection of dishes.
The customer service is friendly and accommodating. The prices are affordable and the drinks are really good.
Highly recommended for a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
5. DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas
DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas is a small, low-key Baja-style Mexican eatery that serves amazing food.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick. The menu offers a variety of delicious items, including steak tacos and deep-fried shrimp tacos.
The mushroom quesadilla will change your life. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
They also have Mexican beer and a couple flavors of Jarritos. This is a must-visit for anyone who loves tacos and quesadillas.
6. La Contenta Oeste
La Contenta Oeste is a hidden gem of Mexican cuisine. The food is authentic and delicious, with a wide variety of options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
The drinks are equally impressive, with a large selection of tequilas and mezcals.
The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date. Don't miss out on this fantastic restaurant.
7. Bar Verde
Bar Verde is a vegan Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful dishes that are perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
The portions are generous, and the presentation of the dishes is gorgeous. Their nachos and spicy cauliflower enchiladas are highly recommended.
The cocktails are also delicious and well-crafted. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual night out or a brunch with friends.
Although a bit pricey, the quality of the food and drinks are definitely worth it.
8. Blue Maiz
Blue Maiz is a Mexican restaurant that offers amazing flavors at reasonable prices.
The staff is friendly and the ambiance is laid-back. The food is fresh and authentic, and the portions are massive.
They offer a build-your-own dish option, similar to Chipotle, but with more authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant also offers good vegetarian options.
The staff is helpful and the location is great. If you're looking for delicious Mexican food in the area, Blue Maiz is definitely worth a try.
9. Raiz Modern Mexican
Raiz Modern Mexican is a vegan Mexican restaurant that offers high-quality, delicious food. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable.
There are gluten-free and nut-free options available, and the faux meat is realistic and tasty.
The brunch burrito is a standout dish, and the make-your-own burrito is a great option. The restaurant is small with limited seating, but the take-out option is convenient.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food. Highly recommend for vegans and non-vegans alike!
10. Amigo by Nai
Amigo by Nai is a trendy Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar that serves up creative and high-concept fare.
The compact venue has a laid-back vibe and a great selection of unique and tasty drinks. The food is delicious and unique, with a small but well-curated menu to choose from.
The pork belly tacos and carnitas tacos are a must-try. The service is attentive, caring, and impeccable.
All in all, Amigo by Nai is definitely worth a stop for those looking for a great dining experience in a hip and trendy setting.
11. Empellon
Empellon is a trendy Mexican restaurant with interesting dishes.
The guacamole with 7 salsas is a great start and the tempura fish tacos are delicious. The lobster salad is fresh and the dessert is very good.
The service is excellent and the ambiance is beautiful. The restaurant is a great spot for modernized takes on classic Mexican flavors.
The food and drink are stellar, but the price point may not be worth it for some.
12. Toloache
Toloache offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a stylish twist. The diverse selection of fresh-made guacamole is a must-try, and the specialty drinks are creative and delicious.
The festive atmosphere with colorful decor adds to the overall experience.
The staff is attentive and helpful, and the service is great. While the prices may be a bit steep, the quality of the food and drinks make it worth it.
Toloache is a great spot for those looking for upscale Mexican cuisine and a fun night out.
13. Anejo
Anejo is a Mexican restaurant that serves exquisite food and drinks. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.
Although the prices are a bit expensive, the food is fresh and delicious. The restaurant has a chic and modern vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
The menu offers small plates that are perfect for hot summer nights. Anejo also has a vast selection of different tequilas and cocktails.
If you want to experience upscale Mexican cuisine, Anejo is the place to go.
14. Mictlan Mexico
Mictlan Mexico is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant's vibrant interior and laid-back atmosphere create the perfect dining experience.
The menu boasts a variety of flavorful dishes, including both meat and vegetarian options.
The staff is friendly, welcoming, and attentive, ensuring that every customer leaves satisfied.
Mictlan Mexico is the go-to spot for anyone looking for delicious Mexican fare in a lively and inviting setting.
15. El Camion Cantina
El Camion Cantina is a lively Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious food with plenty of tequila to go around.
The menu includes classic dishes like burritos and fajitas, as well as unique options like diablos huevos and vegetarian tacos.
The drinks are well-made and their homemade hot sauce is a must-try. The atmosphere is buzzy and perfect for a night out or a weekend brunch.
El Camion Cantina is a great spot for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine and a fun dining experience.
