NYC is packed with high-quality Mexican restaurants. The best Mexican restaurants in NYC range from casual hotspots specializing in classic street foods to sophisticated spaces for important meals. Most are well stocked with countless tequilas and mezcals, from the most approachable to ultra-premium bottles.
Don’t miss an upscale space with 32-ingredient house mole in NoHo, crispy fish tacos and esquites at an energetic spot in Hell’s Kitchen, and an entire tequila dinner tasting menu in Queens.
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Discover the 10 best Mexican restaurants in NYC today.
For Oaxacan dishes from an acclaimed chef at one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC — make a reservation at Claro (Gowanus)
The MICHELIN-Starred history of Claro isn’t all that makes it one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC. Chef T.J. Steele’s Gowanus spot celebrates Oaxacan cuisine with house-made masa, cheeses, and sausages supporting dishes like stuffed quail in red mole and skirt steak tlayuda with blue cheese. Pair your meal with one of several curated mezcal flights. Filled with lush greenery, the seasonal patio provides a festive backdrop that is particularly fun for group celebrations.
For Oaxacan specialties in Queens — book Ruta Oaxaca (Astoria)
Ruta Oaxaca draws crowds to Astoria for its innovative takes on Oaxacan fare. The restaurant is known for bold dishes like mole negro chicken enchiladas and tender beef birria tacos. For a special occasion, go all in on the four-course tequila tasting menu. Energetic murals and bright pops of electric pink create a lively, inviting space ready for casual gatherings or festive nights out at this Queens contribution to one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC.
For one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC blending the best of both worlds — reserve a table at Vida Verde (Hell’s Kitchen)
Vida Verde sets itself apart with a modern spin on Mexican American fusion dishes. Enjoy crowd-pleasing bites like crispy Baja-style fish tacos and esquites (street corn salad) with chipotle mayo. Weather permitting, the rooftop bar’s Margarita Market is the top spot for flavored margaritas to complement the lively vibe. This Hell’s Kitchen hangout is a go-to for social groups seeking one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC with a Big Apple sensibility.
For Mexican dishes with serious personality in the heart of Manhattan — book a table at Pink Taco (Theater District)
One of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC, Pink Taco is known for its playful Mexican dishes, including a signature pink taco served in a pink tortilla. Stray from the color theme with grilled street corn ribs for another popular order, but don’t miss the deep drinks menu of reposados and a pink margarita (of course). The unapologetically bold style of the neon-lit, graffiti-adorned interior fits right into the edgier side of the Theater District.
For a refined meal at one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC — snag a seat at Sinigual (Midtown East)
Sinigual in Midtown East is known for its upscale ambiance and refined Mexican plates. Menu highlights include tableside guacamole service and Yucatan carnitas with avocado relish and a sweet corn cake. Sip on a top-shelf tequila or two to round out the experience. Warm tones and soft lighting create an elegant yet approachable atmosphere, making this spot one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC for a special date night or professional lunch.
For one of the most recognizable names among the best Mexican restaurants in NYC — score a table at Rosa Mexicano (Lincoln Square, Union Square, and Midtown East)
Rosa Mexicano is one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC for familiar Mexican favorites. The sleek bar at Lincoln Square is ideal for pre-show margaritas, and the especially lively vibe at Union Square is well-suited to group dining. Head to Midtown East for a refined, energetic experience. Whatever location you visit, don’t miss the famous tableside guacamole and signature frozen pomegranate margaritas.
For a neighborhood gem that delivers the local experience — secure a spot at La Palapa (East Village)
La Palapa in the East Village is where you go for comforting takes on traditional Mexican dishes. Order the richly spiced cochinita pibil with habanero saffron rice or the earthy huitlacoche enchiladas. Pair your meal with a refreshing hibiscus agua fresca or a tamarind margarita. The colorful interior adorned with hand-painted tiles creates a welcoming and casual ambiance as alive as the neighborhood itself.
For one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC for a swanky night out — lock in a table at Casa Bond (NoHo)
The refined menu and presentation at Casa Bond make it one of the best Mexican restaurants in NYC. The 32-ingredient house mole and dishes like slow braised lamb shank highlight the kitchen’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert presentation. Don’t miss the deep agave selection at this NoHo spot. The sleek, modern space with candle-lit tables and plush seating makes it a go-to for dates or chic meals with friends or colleagues.
For familiar Mexican bites at the best prices in town — reserve El Coco (Chelsea)
El Coco stands out among the best Mexican restaurants in NYC for exceptional deals on familiar Mexican comfort foods. Beloved for its extensive empanada menu and house sauces, this Chelsea taqueria is also a go-to for the short rib birria. Don’t miss the top-bargain margaritas (available by the pitcher, and playful mocktails like the yuzu smash with spicy pineapple shrub. Enjoy it all at this vibrant space filled with pink chairs and bold patterns on the walls.
For sophisticated Mexican dishes in a glam space — grab a table at Lolita (Rockefeller Center)
Lolita merges playful modern style with sophistication and bold flavor to rank among the best Mexican restaurants in NYC. Menu highlights include spicy shrimp, coconut rice with chile chipotle mojo, and a low-braised beef brisket taco. Don’t miss the signature Lolita margarita, with two tequilas and house curaçao. With dramatic lighting and pops of bold patterns between gilded finishes, the boho-glam interior is great for stylish gatherings in Rockefeller Center.
Whether you’re just looking for the best tableside guacamole service in town or in the mood for slow-braised meats in savory sauces, the best Mexican restaurants in NYC have it all. From humble tacos (sometimes in shocking colors) to regional specialties from across the diverse country, Mexican cuisine is well represented around several boroughs of NYC. These top tables book quickly. Make your reservation ASAP.
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Brandon Schultz is an award-winning food and travel writer based in New York City. His work has appeared in Forbes, AAA, Thrillist, Travel + Leisure, and The Daily Meal, among many others. He is the author of six books, including three cookbooks. Follow his adventures on Instagram @thebrandonalexandr.
