The Upper West Side boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and Mexican food is no exception. From casual taco joints to upscale restaurants, there's a Mexican eatery to satisfy every craving and budget. This guide explores 17 of the best Mexican restaurants the Upper West Side has to offer, ensuring your next Mexican food adventure is a memorable one.
Finding Your Perfect Mexican Fiesta: A Guide to UWS Gems
Choosing the right Mexican restaurant can feel overwhelming with so many options. To help you navigate this delicious dilemma, we've categorized these restaurants to help you find your perfect match:
Casual & Quick Bites: Tacos, Burritos, and More
These spots are ideal for a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.
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Taco Mix: A UWS institution known for its authentic, affordable tacos and friendly atmosphere. Their al pastor is a standout, cooked on a vertical spit, just like in Mexico City. Expect a lively, bustling environment perfect for a casual meal.
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Los Tacos No. 1: This popular chain offers a consistent experience with delicious, freshly made tacos. They prioritize simple, high-quality ingredients, creating a satisfyingly uncomplicated meal.
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Tacombi: A trendy spot with a modern take on traditional Mexican tacos. Their unique flavor combinations and vibrant atmosphere are sure to impress. Expect higher prices than your average taco joint.
Upscale Dining Experiences: Elevated Mexican Cuisine
These restaurants offer a more refined experience, perfect for a special occasion or a night out.
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Copacabana: While not strictly Mexican, Copacabana's extensive cocktail menu and Latin-inspired dishes, including some fantastic ceviches and seafood options with Mexican influences, provide a luxurious setting for a flavorful evening.
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Calle Oaxaca: This restaurant offers a more refined take on Oaxacan cuisine, known for its mole sauces and unique regional dishes. Be prepared for a pricier experience, but one well worth it for the quality of food and ambiance.
Family-Friendly Fun: Great for Groups and Kids
These restaurants provide a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for dining with children.
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Rosa Mexicano: This popular chain offers a fun, family-friendly environment with a broad menu that caters to a variety of tastes, including many options for children.
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La Grande Boucherie: While primarily a French brasserie, they have a surprisingly delightful selection of Mexican-inspired dishes and cocktails, particularly excellent margaritas. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it a surprisingly good choice for a family meal.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites You Won't Want to Miss
These under-the-radar spots offer unique flavors and a local feel.
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El Paso: This smaller, unassuming restaurant packs a punch with its flavorful and authentic dishes. Their homemade tortillas are a must-try.
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La Chula: This vibrant taqueria offers delicious street tacos and other Mexican favorites, along with a fun atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Mexico City.
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Empellón Taqueria: While technically a bit outside the core Upper West Side, it's close enough to merit inclusion. This place offers a unique and innovative approach to tacos, appealing to a more adventurous palate.
Beyond Tacos: Exploring the Diversity of Mexican Cuisine
Mexican cuisine is far more than just tacos, and these restaurants demonstrate its diverse flavors.
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Maya: While not exclusively Mexican, Maya's extensive menu offers a delightful selection of Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, including some exceptional Mexican-influenced dishes such as their mole.
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Amada: This restaurant specializes in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine with some interesting Mexican-inspired dishes, particularly showcasing the fusion of Spanish and Mexican culinary traditions.
Late-Night Cravings: Satisfying Your Hunger After Hours
- Pachamama: This Peruvian restaurant offers some surprisingly good late-night options and even some dishes with Mexican influences. It's an excellent alternative if you're craving something a little different late at night.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Delicious Plant-Based Mexican Food
Finding excellent vegetarian and vegan Mexican food can sometimes be a challenge, but these spots offer tasty and satisfying options.
- Superiority Burger: This plant-based burger joint includes unexpected and delightfully creative Mexican-inspired dishes on its ever-changing menu.
Unique Experiences: Stepping Outside the Traditional
- The Smith: This American brasserie offers a diverse menu with some unique interpretations of Mexican flavors incorporated into its dishes. It's a good option for those looking for something beyond the typical Mexican restaurant.
Honorable Mentions: Other Great Choices on the UWS
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Zabar's: Surprisingly, Zabar's offers some exceptional pre-made Mexican food options, perfect for a quick and easy takeaway.
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Cafe Luxembourg: This upscale restaurant offers a creative menu with subtle Mexican-influenced dishes that are incorporated into its broader offerings.
Choosing Your Perfect Mexican Meal
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the many great Mexican restaurants on the Upper West Side. Remember to consider your budget, desired ambiance, and dietary needs when making your selection. Enjoy your culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Mexico right here in NYC!
