12 Best mexican restaurants in East Village New York City
Mexican restaurants in East Village NYC are a culinary delight for food lovers. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its diverse cultural scene, and its Mexican eateries are no exception. With authentic dishes, colorful décor, and inviting atmospheres, these restaurants offer a taste of Mexico right in the heart of New York City. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burritos, or something more adventurous, the Mexican restaurants in East Village NYC have got you covered.
1. Taqueria St. Marks Place
A taste of Mexico in the heart of NYC

This establishment offers a fantastic 90s-themed playlist, perfect for a night out with friends. The atmosphere is lively and social, reminiscent of a classic bar hopping experience. It's not a gourmet restaurant, but it excels in its own unique way. The main draw of this location is the tacos, which are delicious and satisfying.
Taqueria Lower East Side has found a new home, bringing with it all the amazing food, drinks, and staff that made it famous. While the location has changed, the exceptional Mexican cuisine, margaritas, and service remain the same. This new location provides a more refined and enjoyable dining experience, making it a must-visit for fans of the original and newcomers alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
2. Electric Burrito
Big burritos with a twist: fries inside!

Electric Burrito, a lively counter-service establishment in the East Village, specializes in California burritos filled with crispy fries. Among their offerings, the breakfast California burrito stands out as a must-try item for any visitor.
During a recent visit, I opted for a generously sized shrimp burrito, and I can confirm that it was a wise choice. The combination of flavors truly delighted my taste buds, making Electric Burrito a solid option for any burrito lover in search of a quick and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Empellon Al Pastor
Hyper casual spot with weekly food specials.

A standout restaurant for food lovers, Al Pastor offers fantastic dishes at an affordable price. Its authentic Mexican cuisine and exceptional al pastor taco have earned it a spot as a top contender for the best taqueria in the city.
The bar at this establishment is equally impressive, offering a great happy hour with $4 tacos, making it the best option in the East Village. The friendly staff, combined with the best tacos in town, make it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Downtown Burritos
Experience the best burritos in town!

Nestled in the East Village, this cozy counter establishment offers a variety of hearty breakfast burritos and classic taqueria items for takeout. Among their selection, the chorizo and potato breakfast burrito, filled with eggs, cheese, and black beans, particularly stands out. The ideal setting to enjoy this meal is al fresco, nestled on a park bench in Tompkins Square Park, with a generous drizzle of hot sauce to enhance its flavors.
Despite the numerous rave reviews, I find myself in the camp of those who are left unimpressed. The chorizo breakfast burrito, while serviceable, fails to elevate itself above the mediocre. The taste and quality of the chorizo fall short of expectations, resulting in a breakfast burrito experience that leaves much to be desired.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
5. Yellow Rose
Genuine Cosmic Texas Cookin'

Yellow Rose's tortillas are a standout element of the menu, with most items featuring them prominently. A visit to this establishment would not be complete without indulging in a few of their delicious tacos.
The tacos at Yellow Rose are arguably the best in the city. From the tender meats to the fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked tortillas, every ingredient is carefully selected and expertly combined to create an exceptional culinary experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
6. Zaragoza
Cozy deli with a true taste of Mexico

The staff at this Mexican restaurant are known for their friendliness and exceptional service, especially when it comes to accommodating large groups. The burritos on the menu are generously sized and offer a range of flavors to choose from, including pork, chicken, beef, and even cow tongue.
For anyone looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience in Manhattan, this establishment is highly recommended. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, this family-run restaurant serves up delicious tacos and sopas that have become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's the perfect spot to wrap up an evening in the East Village.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
7. Bar Verde
Plant-based Mexican cuisine with a twist.

Bar Verde offers a dining experience that is sure to impress. The menu boasts a variety of delicious and high-quality dishes, with standout options such as the Maitake Tempura and Brussels Sprout Tacos. Diners are sure to be satisfied with the level of care and attention put into each plate.
In addition to the top-notch food, Bar Verde also provides exceptional service. The staff are attentive and efficient, making sure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. The inviting and cozy atmosphere, along with the tasty offerings, make Bar Verde an ideal spot for a meal with friends or loved ones. Shared plates like the Guacamole Verde + Nachos are perfect for groups and are sure to be a hit. Overall, a visit to Bar Verde is a must for any food lover.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. Tacos Cuautla Morelos
Your go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine

The level of service provided is consistently high, with a friendly and welcoming staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a positive dining experience. Customers can expect to receive excellent service along with reasonable prices that reflect the quality of the food and atmosphere.
Among the menu options, the cemita sandwich is a particular favorite, known for its delicious taste and unique combination of ingredients. The Mexican food served in this establishment is highly regarded for its quality and authentic flavor, making it a top choice for fans of the cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
9. Rosie's
Bold, authentic Mexican dishes with a modern twist

Entering Rosie's Mexican restaurant in NYC instantly transports you to Mexico with its kind staff and authentic food. The quaint exterior belies a cozy interior where guests are greeted with warm smiles. Tacos and other typical Mexican delicacies are on the menu, all priced fairly. This restaurant is highly recommended for anyone seeking a genuine Mexican dining experience in the city.
Rosie's is a standout amongst Mexican restaurants in NYC, offering a unique and authentic menu along with excellent service. While many restaurants in the city can feel commercial, Rosie's has managed to maintain an authentic vibe that diners appreciate. The summer outdoor seating is particularly recommended for those seeking a casual and enjoyable dining experience. Overall, Rosie's is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious Mexican food in a welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
10. The Black Ant
Modern Mexican cuisine with a creative twist

The Black Ant is a standout Mexican restaurant that brings a fresh perspective to conventional dishes. Diners can expect a memorable meal, thanks to the restaurant's exceptional service and flavorful food. Among the must-try menu items are the grasshopper tacos, which offer a distinctive and delicious twist on traditional tacos.
In the bustling NYC restaurant scene, The Black Ant is a gem that serves Mexican cuisine with flair. Bold flavors and artful presentation make each dish a treat for the taste buds and the eyes. Although priced slightly higher than some other Mexican restaurants, the unique dining experience provided by The Black Ant is well worth the cost.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
11. Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits
Speakeasy vibe with a unique vending machine entrance.

Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits, a popular spot among food and drink enthusiasts, has garnered an impressive 243 ratings, with the majority of them glowing with praise. Patrons rave about the establishment's tacos and cocktails, which are prepared with exceptional skill and care. The carnitas and wild mushroom tacos, in particular, have earned high praise for their mouthwatering flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Adding to its appeal is Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits' unique and intimate atmosphere. With a speakeasy-inspired vibe, the bar boasts a distinctive vending machine sliding door entrance that immediately sets the tone for a memorable experience. The service here is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are always on hand to provide excellent recommendations and ensure a seamless dining experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
12. Sabor A Mexico Taqueria
Delicious Mexican cuisine in the heart of NYC.

This restaurant, though smaller than its upper east side counterpart, offers a wide-ranging menu of both classic Tex-Mex favorites and authentic Mexican dishes. The staff, who are all Spanish speakers, contribute to the establishment's authentic atmosphere. Compared to the nearby Paquito's, the food here is noticeably less greasy and appears to be fresher and more thoughtfully prepared.
One particular standout is the chicken tacos, which feature perfectly cooked chicken. Other popular dishes include nachos, chimichangas, and birria tacos. The restaurant also boasts an impressive drinks menu, with the passionfruit margarita and 'Maria Bonita' being particularly noteworthy. The cozy atmosphere and charming decor, combined with the welcoming attitudes of the owners and staff, make this a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots