Skinny's Cantina – Mexican
Bathed in the warm glow of neon and rustic wood accents, this vibrant cantina pulses with a rhythmic energy that feels like a perpetual urban fiesta. Guests gather over salt-rimmed glasses of artisanal margaritas and plates of slow-braised meats that burst with the smoky heat of chipotle and the bright, zesty tang of fresh lime. It is a soulful celebration of Mexican flavors where the clinking of glasses and the aroma of sizzling comals create an inviting escape perfect for lively social gatherings.
4705 Center Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11109 (718) 729-8300 https://www.skinnyscantina.com/Rating: 3.9/5 (989 reviews)
Cuisine: Mexican
Price range: $$
What diners are saying
Diners consistently praise the vibrant, trendy atmosphere at Skinny Cantina, describing it as perfect for both family outings and date nights. Standout dishes include the "amazing" chicken fajitas, mole short rib enchiladas, and juicy shrimp tostadas, while the guacamole and tres leches cake are celebrated as flavorful highlights. While service experiences vary from quick and friendly to merely functional, guests appreciate the strong drinks and solid food, though many note the automatic 20% gratuity and higher price point typical of the LIC waterfront location.
Frequently Asked Questions about Skinny's Cantina
- Which dishes work for multiple diets at once (e.g., keto + gluten-free)?
- Shrimp & Avocado Salad and Queso Fundido both work for multiple diets including keto, gluten-free, high-protein, and nut-free.
- Which diets does this restaurant support based on its menu?
- Skinny's Cantina supports keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, paleo, and high-protein diets with dishes like shrimp salad, avocado toast, and fajitas.
- Is this restaurant good for casual dining or more upscale?
- Skinny's Cantina offers a casual, vibrant, and trendy atmosphere suitable for family outings and date nights with moderate ($$) pricing.
- What type of cuisine does this restaurant specialize in?
- Skinny's Cantina specializes in Mexican cuisine, featuring dishes like guacamole, queso fundido, chorizo rojo, and chicken fajitas.
- What do customers love most about this restaurant according to reviews?
- Customers praise the vibrant atmosphere, strong drinks, and standout dishes like chicken fajitas, mole short rib enchiladas, and shrimp tostadas.
- What should first-time visitors know about this restaurant?
- Expect a vibrant atmosphere and popular chicken fajitas, but be aware of the automatic 20% gratuity and moderate ($$) pricing.
- Is this restaurant good value for money?
- Skinny's Cantina offers moderate ($$) pricing with solid food and strong drinks, though reviews mention an automatic 20% gratuity.
- Is this restaurant suitable for families?
- Diners describe the 3.9/5 rated restaurant as perfect for family outings, offering kid-friendly items like chocolate chip pancakes and skillet mac and cheese.
- What is this restaurant's overall rating?
- Skinny's Cantina has an overall rating of 3.9/5, with guests frequently praising the vibrant atmosphere and flavorful Mexican dishes.
- Does this restaurant offer good ambiance?
- Diners consistently praise the vibrant, trendy atmosphere, rated 3.9/5, describing it as perfect for both family outings and date nights.