As the temperature starts to drop, there's nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of pozole. This traditional Mexican soup is a hearty mix of hominy, meat, and spices, often served with a variety of toppings such as lime, radish, and avocado.
Lucky for us, New York City is home to a number of fantastic pozolerias, serving up some of the best bowls of pozole this side of the border.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic red pozole with pork, a spicy green pozole with chicken, or a vegetarian version made with mushrooms, you're sure to find a spot that caters to your taste buds.
From cozy neighborhood joints to trendy downtown eateries, there's a pozoleria for every occasion.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's where we come in.
As locals who are passionate about all things food, we've scoured the city to bring you a list of the best places for pozole in New York City. So, grab a spoon and get ready to slurp your way through some seriously delicious soup.
1. Jajaja Mexicana
Jajaja Mexicana is a vegan and kosher Mexican restaurant that serves up some delicious pozole.
The menu is colorful and all-vegan, with a variety of options to choose from. The atmosphere is hip and contemporary with indoor and outdoor seating available.
The service is excellent and the food is worth every bite. The nachos and churros are a must-try, and the coconut quesadilla and mushroom tacos are unique and flavorful.
If you're looking for a spot for vegan Mexican food, Jajaja Mexicana is definitely worth checking out.
2. Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place offers a wide selection of authentic Mexican dishes in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
The pozole is a must-try, and the tacos, burritos, and sopes are all excellent. The margaritas are also highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and the prices are affordable. The atmosphere is casual with a bar and table service in a colorful interior with great music.
It's a great spot for a casual night out with friends or a quick lunch.
3. El Centro
El Centro is a cozy Mexican restaurant that serves some of the best pozole in town.
The traditional flavors and fresh ingredients used in their dishes make it feel like a fonda in Mexico City. The portions are generous, so it's perfect for sharing with friends and family.
The service is quick and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
With a lively vibe and colorful decor, El Centro is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine.
4. Fonda
Fonda offers elevated Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Their pozole is a must-try, with perfectly cooked hominy and tender pork in a flavorful broth.
The restaurant has a festive atmosphere and a great selection of tequila-based cocktails.
While the service can be slow at times, the delicious food is worth the wait.
Fonda is a great option for those looking for a unique dining experience in the city.
5. Tacos Cuautla Morelos
Tacos Cuautla Morelos is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious and authentic pozole.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, tortas, and quesadillas.
The portions are generous, the food is flavorful and the prices are reasonable. The atmosphere is simple and unfussy, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican food, Tacos Cuautla Morelos is definitely worth a visit.
6. Rosie's
Rosie's serves up authentic Mexican fare in a hip and bustling atmosphere. Their pozole is a standout dish, with rich and flavorful broth and tender chunks of pork.
The corn tortillas are made fresh in-house and serve as the perfect accompaniment to the pozole.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, making for a great dining experience.
Don't miss out on their margaritas, which are expertly crafted and pair perfectly with the pozole.
7. Paquitos
Paquitos is a gem of a place for pozole. The food is authentic and fresh, and the staff is hardworking.
The Tex-Mex dishes are reasonably priced and tasty, and the guacamole is a must-try.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and the back garden is a perfect spot to enjoy a margarita or sangria.
Although the location is small, the food and service make up for it. Paquitos is a great option for takeout or delivery as well.
8. Casa Mexicana
Casa Mexicana is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is family-run and boasts a great atmosphere.
The menu is full of delicious dishes like mole poblano, enchiladas suizas, and of course, their famous pozole.
The guacamole is made fresh at your table, and the margaritas are a must-try. The staff is friendly and the service is excellent.
Casa Mexicana is a fantastic spot for a casual night out with friends or a romantic date night. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a taste of Mexico in the city.
9. Tortaria
Tortaria is a colorful Mexican restaurant that serves delicious pozole.
The atmosphere is bodega-like and the staff is attentive. The food is reasonably priced and the portions are generous.
The short rib tortas are to die for, and the margaritas are flavorful and strong. The service is outstanding, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a night out with friends.
Tortaria is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a great pozole experience.
10. Sabor A Mexico
Sabor A Mexico is a vibrant storefront eatery that serves traditional Mexican plates.
They have a range of dishes, but their pozole is a standout. This hearty soup is packed with flavor and made with fresh ingredients.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a casual meal.
The restaurant is compact, but the ambiance is relaxed and colorful. Sabor A Mexico is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mexican food.
11. Barrio Chino
Barrio Chino is a cozy Mexican eatery that serves delicious pozole. The soup is smoky and spicy, perfect for a chilly night.
The portion sizes are great, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant also has an impressive list of Mezcal, and the cocktails are perfectly balanced.
The ambiance is hip, with Asian-accented decor. The restaurant is a bit pricey, but the quality and preparation of the food make it worth it.
If you're looking for a great place for pozole, Barrio Chino is definitely worth checking out.
12. El Gallo Taqueria
El Gallo Taqueria serves up some of the best pozole in town. The portions are large, and the prices are affordable.
The guacamole is especially fresh and delicious, and the salsas pack a spicy punch. The customer service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Highly recommend trying the milanesa de pollo torta and the tres leches cake.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and it feels like a taste of Mexico in the heart of the city. Don't miss out on this gem for your next pozole craving.
13. El Mitote
El Mitote offers some of the best pozole in town.
The restaurant's authentic Mexican cuisine is a must-try for those craving a hearty and flavorful soup.
The friendly staff provides quick service and the cozy atmosphere is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Don't forget to try the micheladas and tacos al pastor, too. El Mitote is a hidden gem for Mexican food enthusiasts.
14. El Encanto De Lola 2
El Encanto De Lola 2 is a vibrant Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious pozole.
With its festive atmosphere and friendly staff, this place is perfect for a night out with friends or a casual dinner with family. The pozole is hearty and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice.
The menu also offers a variety of other Mexican favorites, like tacos and burritos, as well as tasty drinks to wash it all down.
The portions are generous and prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food. If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, El Encanto De Lola 2 is definitely worth a visit.
