New York is known to have an extensive offering of international cuisines, but sometimes, finding quality Mexican food can be challenging. From handcrafted homemade burritos to the cheesiest enchiladas paired with exotic margaritas, it is time to take your Taco Tuesdays to the next level. Whether you prefer Tex-Mex or high-end Oaxacan food, these are the best Mexican restaurants in NYC.
See Also: 19 Of The Best Mexican Restaurants Across the U.S.
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35 E 21st St. / 212.913.9659 / Website
Serving contemporary cuisine rooted in Mexican flavors and tradition, Cosme will not disappoint. Their dishes use local and seasonal ingredients from the Hudson Valley and other regions to create artisanal Mexican dishes. If you are looking for high-quality and unique flavors, try the fan-favorite uni tostada that comes with sea urchin, bone marrow, pico de gallo and avocado. Be sure to save room for their decadent desserts like burnt Basque cheesecake, made in-store every day and served with pinole cream and seasonal fruits.
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3 Allen St. / 646.964.4836 / Website
Corima means “circle of sharing,” but after one taste you will not want to share any of these plates. Chef Fidel Caballero brings his unique culinary perspective by incorporating his hometown’s Northern Mexican ingredients and techniques into revolutionary “Progressive Mexican” dishes with a touch of Japanese flair. The extensive beverage menu is rooted in Mexican spirits from the Chihuahuan desert and natural wines from the Guadalupe Valley. This new restaurant offers exquisite dishes like a seasonal sashimi platter, Berkshire pork and duck enmoladas.
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284 3rd Ave / 347.721.3126 / Website
This gluten-free establishment is all about highlighting Oaxacan food and culture. From the interior design painted by internationally acclaimed Oaxacan artists to the handmade clay dinnerware acquired by birthright, Claro is going beyond the menu to bring authenticity to NYC. Of course, Claro will “clearly” put you at ease with their homemade sausages and cheeses using organic meat and produce. Offering mezcal flights, savory brunch and delivery, you do not want to skip out on the tostadas or the tacos de lengua.
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Multiple locations / 917.262.0184 / Website
JaJaJa Mexicana is bringing the Mexican culture, community and comida to multiple locations in New York. This plant-based eatery takes vegan plates to a new level and will meet all your street food needs with its jackfruit tacos and piles of nachos. With their expansive menu of burritos, enchiladas and carefully curated cocktail program, indulge in the vacation vibes and playful Latino music without ever leaving home.
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Multiple locations / Website
If you can not decide between Mexican classics and south-of-the-border sophistication, Rosa Mexicano is your answer. Customers can experience an “elevated fiesta” that honors “rich heritage, culinary techniques, and the global impact of Mexican cuisine.” Whether you are having the duck carnitas tacos or the tuna ceviche, pair your meal with the pomegranate frozen margarita, the restaurant's signature cocktail since 1984. Besides, who can say no to fresh guacamole made tableside?
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Multiple locations / Website
Expand your palette with jumbo tiger prawn fajitas and pastrami tacos at Empellón Midtown combining American classics with Mexican influences served with the iconic New York City scenery. If you are in the mood for a cozy, casual meal, the Uptown and Downtown Taquerias welcome you to enjoy flavorful dips and two-taco plates or the "Al Pastor" outpost serves Mexican bar snacks and classic cocktails in the East Village. Check out #TacoTuesday at the West Village location featuring a new specialty taco dish every week.
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409 W15th St. / 212.920.4986 / Website
Everyone knows that when it comes to Mexican food, the West Coast does it right. That’s why three friends from Tijuana, Mexico and California opened Los Mariscos and brought authentic Mexican cuisine to the East Coast. The limited but tasty menu offers ceviches, seafood cocktails and battered fish tacos made with the freshest and richest seafood. Order the aguachiles, which can be made traditionally with shrimp or scallops and wash it down with a refreshing and nostalgic flavored agua fresca.
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Multiple locations / Website
You simply can not be discontent in La Contenta. After moving from Mazatlán, Mexico to the United States in the 1990s, chef and owner Luis Arce Mota is honing his French culinary training by creating Mexican plates with French accents. With a wide array of fish and meat tacos and a special brunch menu packed with Mexican omlettes and tres leches french toast, La Contenta is the perfect spot for any time of the day to satisfy your palate.
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818 10th Ave / 212.315.9444 / Website
It is always time for a margarita when you are at Mamasita. This casual restaurant serves some of the freshest and finest Mexican food free of MSG, lard and animal fat, they provide dozens of options including a healthy vegetarian selection for non-meat eaters. Their impressive margarita menu has over 25 different flavors allowing customers to choose the size, frozen or on the rocks and dusting around the rim to make their perfect concoction. Whether you are looking for a light lunch option like fresh soup or salad or craving those chimichangas or sizzling fajitas, Mamasita Bar & Grill has everything you need.
These Mexican restaurants are bringing their traditional culture and unique flavors to NYC so you can have a little taste of their home.
Photography by: Jovani Demetrie for Corima
