Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale Mexican Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale Mexican Food

• Tacos El Azteca — Mexican · rated 5/5: Tacos El Azteca, located at W 87th St & 568 Columbus Ave, New York, is a delightful spot known for its excellent tacos and authentic Mexican cuisine. Open weekdays from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this family-friendly restaurant also offers takeout and is perfect for groups. With a perfect 5-star rating and rave reviews highlighting its fresh ingredients and accommodating service, it's a must-visit for taco lovers.
• El Gallo Taqueria — Mexican · rated 4.8/5: Stepping into El Gallo Taqueria feels like a vibrant escape to a bustling Mexican street corner, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of charred meats and the rhythmic pat-pat of masa being shaped by hand. Each plate is a colorful celebration of tradition, featuring tender, slow-cooked fillings tucked into warm tortillas and brightened by the sharp zing of lime and fiery, house-made salsas. This lively neighborhood gem captures the soulful essence of authentic taqueria culture, offering a sensory feast that turns a simple meal into a spirited, flavor-drenched experience.
• Tacqueria 86 — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Tacqueria 86 captures the vibrant energy of a bustling Mexican street corner, where the rhythmic chop of the cleaver and the savory scent of marinated meats searing on the plancha fill the air. Hand-pressed tortillas arrive warm and fragrant, cradling succulent fillings that burst with the bright acidity of fresh lime and the smoky complexity of house-made salsas. This lively neighborhood gem transforms simple ingredients into a bold, sensory celebration of authentic street-food culture.
• Taqueria 86 — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Located in the Central Park West Historic District, Taqueria 86 offers a cozy and casual dining experience inspired by the 1986 FIFA World Cup. This laid-back Mexican taqueria is family-friendly and ideal for groups. Known for its traditional Mexican street food, the menu features popular items like tacos, guacamole, and birria, complemented by margaritas and a variety of beverages. With fast service and great vibes, it's a perfect spot for delicious meals and refreshing drinks.
• El Paisano Mexican food — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: El Paisano Mexican Food, located at 700 Columbus Ave, New York, is a vibrant food truck known for its delectable Mexican cuisine, regularly drawing families and food enthusiasts. Open Monday to Friday with extended hours on Friday nights, this highly-rated spot (4.5 stars from 25 reviews) offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. They accept various payment options for your convenience. For inquiries or reservations, call +1 646-744-8605.
• Pico De Gallo Bar & Kitchen — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: Pico De Gallo Bar & Kitchen pulses with a festive energy, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of charred chilies and the rhythmic song of cocktail shakers. Sun-drenched flavors leap from every plate as zesty lime and hand-pressed tortillas meet the bold, slow-simmered depths of traditional Mexican soul food. It is a spirited sanctuary where the clink of salt-rimmed glasses and the warmth of communal tables invite guests to linger over artisanal tequilas and bright, garden-fresh salsas.
• Nina's Great Burrito Bar — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: Nina’s Great Burrito Bar pulses with a vibrant, neighborhood energy, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered carnitas and smoky, charred chiles. This lively spot brings together the warmth of a bustling kitchen with overstuffed burritos wrapped in pillowy tortillas, each bite bursting with bold spices and zesty house-made salsas that celebrate the soulful essence of Mexican comfort food.
• Tasty Burrito Ny — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: Nestled at 2333 Broadway, New York, Tasty Burrito NY is a delightful spot for taco and burrito enthusiasts. This family-friendly restaurant, with a solid 4.4 rating from 13 reviews, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While it doesn't serve wine or provide outdoor seating, its flavorful and authentic dishes and convenient takeout and delivery options make it a go-to for locals. Call +1 347-757-2551 to reserve your table today!
• Dahlia — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Bushwick, Dahlia offers classic Mexican favorites like burritos and tacos in a relaxed setting. With an impressive 4.4-star rating from over 170 reviews, this spot is a go-to for delicious and affordably priced Mexican cuisine. Highlights include their flavorful tacos, hearty burritos, and savory nachos. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Dahlia ensures a satisfying dining experience with excellent customer service. Enjoy dine-in, takeout, or delivery options.
• Playa Betty's — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Playa Betty’s transports diners to a sun-drenched California beach house, where the vibrant energy of a coastal surf shack meets the bustling spirit of the city. The air hums with the clink of salt-rimmed margarita glasses and the enticing aroma of charred proteins and zesty citrus, all set against a backdrop of breezy, surf-inspired decor. It is a lively oasis where fresh, beach-side flavors and a laid-back atmosphere create a perennial summer escape.
• Covacha — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: This rustic, open-air sanctuary transports guests to a sun-drenched Mexican courtyard, where the air is perfumed with the smoky aroma of wood-fired grills and fresh, hand-pressed masa. Earthy textures and lush greenery frame a soulful dining experience that celebrates regional traditions, pairing vibrant, spice-kissed plates with artisanal mezcal cocktails under a canopy of warm, flickering light.
• Rancho Tequileria — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Rustic wood accents and the warm, earthy scent of toasted cornmeal welcome guests into this spirited sanctuary of Mexican hospitality, where the rhythmic shake of cocktails provides a lively backbeat. Diners savor zesty, citrus-brightened seafood and smoky grilled meats paired with a sprawling collection of artisanal tequilas, capturing the sun-drenched soul of Jalisco in every glass. This festive escape brings together
• Cilantro NYC — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Cilantro NYC, located at 485 Columbus Ave, is a delightful Mexican restaurant that promises a varied dining experience from brunch to dinner. With a 4.3 rating from over 1,050 reviews, this vibrant spot is ideal for families, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking flavorful cuisine. Guests can enjoy a range of offerings, including desserts, wine, and vegetarian options, all in a cozy setting. Reservation and takeout options are available to cater to all preferences.
• The City Diner — American · rated 4.2/5: The City Diner in Maspeth offers a cozy experience with a diverse menu featuring American, Mexican, and Greek dishes. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the diner is great for families and groups. With a friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere, and options like breakfast all day, vegetarian meals, and a full bar, it's a perfect spot for any meal. For reservations, call +1 718-894-6923.
• Mexikosher — Mexican · rated 4.2/5: Located at 100 W 83rd St, New York, Mexikosher offers a delightful take on Kosher Mexican cuisine. With a menu that includes customizable tacos, burritos, bowls, and salads, this fast-casual eatery is an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal. The restaurant is family-friendly, accepts various payment methods, and provides takeout and delivery services. Enjoy fresh ingredients and generous portions in a clean, well-kept space, ideal for a relaxed meal.
• Carlos & Gabby's — Mexican · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 100 W 83rd St, Carlos & Gabby’s offers an array of flavors that cater to diverse palates. This cozy spot is perfect for takeout or delivery, boasting a diverse menu featuring American, Mexican, and Middle Eastern dishes, all at fair prices. Rated 4.2 stars by satisfied customers, the restaurant is kid-friendly and offers meal options for children. Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, except Fridays and Saturdays, it provides a delightful escape for tasty, wood-smoked wings, burgers, and more. Credit and debit cards are accepted for a seamless dining experience.
• La Nueva Victoria — Mexican · rated 4.1/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 2536 Broadway, La Nueva Victoria offers a casual dining experience with a diverse menu of familiar Chinese and Spanish fare, complemented by an array of cocktails, beer, and wine. Perfect for family outings, this spot caters to groups and provides takeout and delivery options. With a solid 4.1 rating, it charms diners with fast service, generous portions, and unforgettable flavors. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a serene meal with convenient free street parking!
• Pico De Gallo — Mexican · rated 4/5: Nestled in Jackson Heights, Pico De Gallo is a family-friendly Mexican restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delightful comfort food. With offerings like hand-made corn tortilla quesadillas, juicy margaritas, and the popular carnitas, this small venue features a bar, table service, and high chairs for kids. Open daily, it’s perfect for a fun night out with deliciously satisfying meals and occasional karaoke, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
• Cafe Bee — American · rated 3.7/5: Nestled inside the charming Tea Magic shop, Cafe Bee offers a delightful array of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Known for its impressive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, this cozy cafe is a takeout favorite in NYC. Whether you're craving a tasty sandwich, a fresh crepe, or a hearty breakfast burrito, Cafe Bee has something to satisfy everyone. Conveniently located at 239 W 72nd St, New York.
• Nina's Great Burrito Bar — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood haunt pulses with energy as the savory aroma of charred meats and zesty citrus fills the air, drawing diners toward a bustling counter where culinary craftsmanship meets casual comfort. Each oversized burrito is a hand-rolled masterpiece of bold textures and sun-drenched flavors, layering tender proteins with vibrant house-made salsas to create a soulful, satisfying experience that feels like a celebration of the street-food spirit.
• Tacqueria 86 — Mexican: Taqueria 86 invites diners on a spirited culinary road trip across Mexico, where the air is thick with the scent of charred corn and slow-simmered meats. Golden, crispy flautas and zesty pico de gallo set the stage for a parade of regional tacos, ranging from the smoky depths of Michoacán to the rich, succulent birria of Guadalajara. It is a vibrant, flavor-forward escape where every hand-pressed tortilla serves as a canvas for the bold, authentic traditions of the streets.
• Bodega 88 — Mexican: Vibrant energy pulses through this Upper West Side gem, where exposed brick walls and warm amber lighting set the stage for a spirited fusion of Latin-inspired flavors and neighborhood camaraderie. The air is thick with the savory scent of golden empanadas and sizzling small plates, inviting guests to linger over craft cocktails and zesty sangrias in an atmosphere that feels both upscale and effortlessly welcoming.
• Izzy's Brooklyn Smokehouse — American: Brooklyn energy meets the low-and-slow soul of a traditional smokehouse, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of hickory and smoldering spice. Tender, house-smoked brisket and succulent pulled beef find new life in crispy empanadas and street-style tacos, blending classic barbecue techniques with vibrant global accents like adobo and Korean glaze. Each dish offers a masterclass in texture and heat, from the satisfying crunch of golden egg rolls to the rich, savory depth of loaded fries, creating a destination for bold, soulful comfort food with an urban edge.
• Covacha — Mexican: Stepping into this rustic sanctuary feels like a journey to the heart of Jalisco, where sun-drenched terracotta and weathered wood create a warm, soulful backdrop for communal dining. The air hums with the scent of charred chilies and hand-pressed heirloom corn as the kitchen celebrates the vibrant heritage of Western Mexico through smoky moles and bright, coastal seafood. Under the soft glow of woven lanterns, guests linger over artisanal agave spirits, finding a spirited escape that honors tradition with every bold, earthy bite.
• Pico De Gallo Bar & Kitchen — Mexican: Vibrant and soulful, this spirited kitchen captures the essence of a sun-drenched cantina where the air hums with conversation and the zesty aroma of freshly chopped cilantro and charred chilies. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle bold, slow-simmered meats and garden-fresh salsas, perfectly complemented by the smoky allure of craft mezcal cocktails and salt-rimmed glasses. It is a place where every bite feels like a celebration of bright, punchy flavors, inviting guests to linger over shared plates in an atmosphere that feels both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
• Playa Betty's — Mexican: Sun-drenched and spirited, this vibrant beach-shack escape transports diners from the city streets to the golden coast of California with its reclaimed wood accents and breezy, surf-inspired decor. The air hums with the rhythmic sound of cocktail shakers as guests dive into bright, citrus-kissed tacos and overflowing grain bowls that celebrate the fresh, laid-back flavors of the Pacific. It’s a lively neighborhood hangout where salt-rimmed margaritas flow freely and every meal feels like a permanent summer vacation.
• El Gallo Taqueria — Mexican: The rhythmic chop of fresh cilantro and the savory sizzle of marinated meats on the plancha create a lively soundtrack in this vibrant, sun-drenched neighborhood haunt. Warm, hand-pressed tortillas cradle everything from tender, slow-cooked carnitas to smoky al pastor, all elevated by a rainbow of zesty house-made salsas that pack a spirited punch. It is a soulful celebration of street-food tradition, where every bite captures the bold, sun-soaked essence of authentic Mexican flavors.
• Rancho Tequileria — Mexican: Sun-drenched rustic charm meets a vibrant agave-fueled energy at this spirited destination, where walls lined with artisanal tequilas set the stage for a lively, festive evening. The air hums with the rhythm of cocktail shakers and the savory aroma of slow-cooked meats, inviting guests to savor bold, traditional flavors in a space that feels like a warm and soulful escape.
• Cilantro NYC — Mexican: Bathed in the warm glow of rustic lanterns, this vibrant neighborhood gem invites guests into a festive space where the air is thick with the aroma of sizzling spices and freshly chopped herbs. Zesty margaritas flow freely alongside plates of bold, sun-drenched flavors that celebrate the spirit of traditional Mexican cooking, creating an energetic backdrop for lively gatherings and spirited conversation.
• Tacombi — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the nostalgic charm of vintage Volkswagen buses transport diners to the sun-soaked shores of the Yucatan in this lively, open-air taqueria. The air is thick with the aroma of nixtamalized corn and slow-roasted meats, while the clinking of ice-cold margaritas underscores a social atmosphere that feels like a perpetual beachside celebration.