Top 10 Mexican Restaurants in New York
Mexican Restaurants in USA

Top 10 Mexican Restaurants in New York

Los Tacos No. 1

If you're looking for the quintessential New York taco experience, you absolutely cannot miss Los Tacos No. 1. Tucked away in the bustling Chelsea Market, this isn't a sit-down restaurant with waiters; it's a vibrant, energetic stand where the focus is entirely on perfecting the art of the taco. You'll find yourself mesmerized watching the taqueros expertly slice al pastor from the trompo, grill carne asada to perfection, and assemble each taco with lightning speed. It's a true taste of Tijuana street food, right here in Manhattan, and locals know that the line is always worth it.

The menu is delightfully simple, focusing on quality over quantity: choose from carne asada, pollo asado, nopal (cactus), or the legendary adobada (al pastor). Each taco is served on a fresh, handmade corn tortilla, topped with a sprinkle of onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Don't forget to hit their salsa bar for a fiery kick! Pricing is incredibly reasonable for New York, typically around $4-5 per taco, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or a casual dinner with friends. It's a standing-room-only affair, so come ready to eat and mingle!

What Food Critics Say

Fellow food enthusiasts consistently rave about the authenticity and freshness at Los Tacos No. 1, often citing it as the best tacos in NYC. With a stellar 4.7-star reputation, diners particularly praise the succulent adobada and the perfectly charred carne asada, noting that the handmade tortillas are a game-changer. Fair warning: expect a line, especially during peak hours, but everyone agrees it moves fast and the reward is truly delicious.

📍 Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

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La Esquina

For a truly unique and memorable Mexican dining experience, you have to check out La Esquina in Nolita. From the street, it looks like a casual taqueria, but the real magic happens downstairs. Descend through a hidden door, past the bustling kitchen, and you'll find yourself in a dimly lit, vibrant speakeasy-style restaurant that feels like a secret club. It's the perfect spot for a date night or a lively evening with friends, offering a fantastic blend of atmosphere and incredible food.

Their menu goes beyond typical taco fare, featuring elevated Mexican dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. You'll love their grilled corn with cotija cheese and chili, and their various ceviches are always a hit. For mains, don't miss the carne asada or the enchiladas suizas, which are rich and flavorful. Expect to spend a bit more here, with entrees typically ranging from $25-40, but the experience and the quality of the food make it well worth it. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for the downstairs dining room!

What Food Critics Say

Diners consistently praise La Esquina for its incredible ambiance and delicious, elevated Mexican cuisine. With a solid 4.3-star rating, many highlight the "secret" downstairs dining room as a unique experience, and the grilled corn and various taco options receive frequent accolades. Some mention that it can be a bit loud, but the vibrant energy is part of its charm.

📍 Address: 114 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012

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Casa Enrique

If you're willing to venture a little further into Long Island City, Queens, you'll be richly rewarded with Casa Enrique, a Michelin-starred gem that truly brings the authentic flavors of Chiapas, Mexico, to New York. This place is a testament to chef Cosme Aguilar's passion, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like dining in a beloved family home. It's a fantastic choice for a special occasion or when you're simply craving Mexican food that's a cut above the rest.

The menu is a celebration of regional Mexican cuisine, with standout dishes like the cochinita pibil, slow-roasted pork that melts in your mouth, and the mole de piaxtla, a complex and deeply flavorful mole that you won't soon forget. Their handmade tortillas are a revelation, and the guacamole is always fresh and perfectly seasoned. While it's a Michelin-starred restaurant, the pricing is surprisingly accessible for the quality, with entrees generally in the $25-35 range. It's a place where you can truly savor each bite and appreciate the culinary artistry.

What Food Critics Say

Casa Enrique is consistently lauded for its authentic, refined Mexican cuisine and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, earning it a Michelin star and a 4.6-star reputation. Reviewers frequently highlight the mole dishes and the cochinita pibil as must-tries, praising the depth of flavor and the quality of ingredients. Many appreciate that it offers a high-end dining experience without feeling stuffy or overly formal.

📍 Address: 5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

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Tacombi Flatiron

Tacombi is a fantastic spot if you're looking for a vibrant, energetic atmosphere paired with delicious, straightforward Mexican street food. The Flatiron location, with its open kitchen and lively decor, feels like a permanent fiesta. It's perfect for a casual lunch, a lively happy hour, or a fun dinner with a group of friends. You'll love the buzz and the colorful murals that transport you straight to the streets of Mexico.

Their menu features a variety of tacos, quesadillas, and esquites, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The al pastor tacos are a crowd favorite, perfectly marinated and cooked on a vertical spit, while the Baja crispy fish tacos offer a delightful crunch. Don't skip their fresh aguas frescas or a refreshing margarita! Pricing is very approachable, with tacos typically around $4-5 each, making it easy to mix and match and try a few different options. It's a go-to for many locals when they want reliable, tasty Mexican in a fun setting.

What Food Critics Say

Tacombi is widely praised for its lively atmosphere and consistently good street-style tacos, holding a strong 4.4-star rating. Diners frequently recommend the al pastor and fish tacos, noting the freshness of the ingredients and the vibrant flavors. Many appreciate the energetic vibe and the quick service, making it a popular choice for a casual, satisfying meal.

📍 Address: 24 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010

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Empellón Al Pastor

When you're in the East Village and craving truly exceptional tacos, Empellón Al Pastor is your destination. Chef Alex Stupak, a culinary genius, takes the humble taco to new heights here, focusing specifically on the art of the al pastor. The atmosphere is casual and cool, with a lively bar scene and a no-frills approach that lets the incredible food speak for itself. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxed meal where you can truly appreciate the craft behind each dish.

The star of the show, of course, is the al pastor, cooked on a traditional trompo and served with a perfect balance of sweet pineapple and savory pork. But don't stop there – their other taco fillings, like the carnitas and the mushroom, are equally impressive. The salsas are complex and flavorful, ranging from mild to fiery, and their esquites (Mexican street corn) are a must-order side. Tacos are priced around $5-7 each, making it a slightly more upscale taco experience than a street cart, but the quality and creativity are absolutely worth it.

What Food Critics Say

Empellón Al Pastor consistently earns high marks for its innovative and delicious take on tacos, particularly the namesake al pastor, boasting a 4.5-star reputation. Reviewers often commend the quality of the ingredients and the depth of flavor in the salsas. While some find it a bit pricier for tacos, the consensus is that the elevated experience and unique offerings justify the cost.

📍 Address: 132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009

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Oxomoco

For a taste of Michelin-starred Mexican in Brooklyn, Oxomoco in Greenpoint is an absolute revelation. This place is known for its wood-fired cooking, which imparts an incredible smoky depth to everything on the menu. The space itself is bright and airy, with a beautiful skylight and lush greenery, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed dining environment. It's perfect for a special dinner or a memorable brunch with friends who appreciate refined Mexican cuisine.

The menu is a creative exploration of Mexican flavors, with standout dishes like their various tostadas and their incredible wood-fired tacos, especially the short rib and the scallop options. The flavors are bold and innovative, and every dish feels thoughtfully crafted. Don't miss their extensive mezcal and tequila list, which perfectly complements the food. Pricing is on the higher side, with entrees typically ranging from $30-50, but it's an experience that truly showcases the artistry of modern Mexican cooking.

What Food Critics Say

Oxomoco is celebrated for its innovative, wood-fired Mexican cuisine and its vibrant atmosphere, earning a Michelin star and a 4.5-star rating. Diners frequently praise the unique flavors imparted by the wood-fired oven, with the short rib tacos and various tostadas often highlighted. Many reviewers also commend the impressive cocktail program and the beautiful, airy dining space.

📍 Address: 128 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222

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Claro

Another Michelin-starred gem in Brooklyn, Claro in Gowanus offers an authentic taste of Oaxacan cuisine, with a strong emphasis on masa made from heirloom corn and a commitment to traditional techniques. The restaurant has a rustic, charming vibe with a beautiful outdoor patio that's perfect for warmer evenings. It's the kind of place where you can truly feel the passion for Mexican culinary heritage in every dish.

Their menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect incredible moles, handmade tortillas, and dishes that highlight the unique flavors of Oaxaca. The tlayudas, large crispy tortillas topped with various ingredients, are a must-try, as are their different mole preparations, which are rich, complex, and deeply satisfying. They also have an impressive selection of mezcal, perfect for sipping alongside your meal. Pricing is in the fine-dining range, with entrees typically $28-45, but the quality, authenticity, and unique experience make it a worthwhile splurge for any serious food lover.

What Food Critics Say

Claro is highly acclaimed for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, particularly its house-made masa and moles, securing a Michelin star and a 4.6-star reputation. Reviewers consistently praise the depth of flavor in the mole dishes and the freshness of the handmade tortillas. The outdoor patio is often mentioned as a lovely dining spot, and the extensive mezcal selection is a big draw.

📍 Address: 284 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

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Fonda Chelsea

Fonda, with its Chelsea location, is a reliable and beloved spot for elevated Mexican comfort food. Chef Roberto Santibañez brings a sophisticated touch to classic dishes, creating a menu that's both familiar and exciting. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a stylish yet comfortable decor that makes it perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a relaxed family meal. It's a place where you can always count on a delicious and satisfying experience.

You'll find all your favorites here, but with a refined twist. Their guacamole is always a winner, and the various enchiladas and tacos are consistently excellent. Don't miss their signature duck zarape, a crispy tortilla filled with duck confit, or the chile relleno, which is perfectly executed. Their margaritas are also top-notch! Pricing is mid-range, with most entrees falling between $20-30, offering great value for the quality and portion sizes. It's a fantastic neighborhood spot that locals flock to for consistently good Mexican food.

What Food Critics Say

Fonda is consistently praised for its elevated take on traditional Mexican dishes and its welcoming atmosphere, maintaining a solid 4.3-star rating. Diners frequently highlight the duck zarape and the various enchiladas as standout dishes, commending the fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Many appreciate it as a reliable spot for a delicious and comfortable dining experience.

📍 Address: 189 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

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Rosie's

Rosie's in the East Village is a vibrant and popular spot that brings a fresh, lively energy to Mexican dining. With its colorful decor, bustling atmosphere, and fantastic outdoor seating, it's the perfect place to gather with friends for a fun meal and some great drinks. You'll love the festive vibe and the feeling of being transported to a lively cantina.

The menu at Rosie's features a range of classic Mexican dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their guacamole is always a hit, and their various tacos, from the grilled fish to the carnitas, are consistently delicious. Don't miss their excellent quesadillas and their flavorful enchiladas. They also have a fantastic cocktail menu, with creative margaritas and other refreshing drinks. Pricing is moderate, with entrees typically in the $20-30 range, making it an accessible option for a fun and satisfying meal. It's a great spot for groups and anyone looking for a lively dining experience.

What Food Critics Say

Rosie's is frequently lauded for its vibrant atmosphere and consistently good Mexican food, holding a strong 4.4-star reputation. Reviewers often praise the lively ambiance and the outdoor seating, making it a popular choice for social gatherings. The guacamole and various taco options receive high marks for freshness and flavor.

📍 Address: 29 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10003

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Taqueria Ramirez

For a truly authentic, no-frills, street-style taco experience, you absolutely have to make your way to Taqueria Ramirez in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. This place is a local favorite, known for its incredibly fresh, handmade tortillas and its focus on traditional Mexican preparations. It's a small, bustling spot where the aroma of sizzling meats and fresh masa fills the air, and you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem straight out of Mexico City.

The menu is concise but mighty, featuring classic tacos like suadero (confit beef), longaniza (pork sausage), and tripa (tripe), all served on those glorious handmade tortillas. The salsas are made in-house and pack a serious punch, so choose wisely! Don't expect fancy seating; this is a stand-up or grab-a-stool kind of place, perfect for a quick, incredibly satisfying bite. Tacos are very affordably priced, typically around $4-5 each, making it an excellent value for some of the most authentic tacos you'll find in the city.

What Food Critics Say

Taqueria Ramirez is highly celebrated for its authentic, no-frills street tacos and exceptional handmade tortillas, boasting a stellar 4.7-star reputation. Diners consistently rave about the suadero and longaniza tacos, praising the rich flavors and the perfect texture of the tortillas. Many reviewers highlight it as one of the most authentic taco experiences in NYC, despite the often-crowded, standing-room-only setup.

📍 Address: 94 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

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