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New York City's Best Mexican Restaurants

Rosa Mexicano

Teaching New Yorkers about the complexity of Mexican food since 1984.

Prompt seating - yes
Make reservations - yes
Romantic - no
Good for kids - yes
Good for groups - yes
Recommended - yes

Food

(8)

Ambience

(7)

Service

(7)

Value

(7)

The Scene

There are two distinct personalities to the place: The loud, seemingly always-crowded bar--with hanging paper decorations and dim lighting--and the two main dining areas, where the noise level and decor is notably more subdued. Service is swift, competent and helpful, though there are certain not-so-subtle expectations--"you'll want a single or double order of the guacamole?"--that they tend to impart.

The Food

Order the guacamole--it's quite good and made tableside with fresh lime, cilantro and jalapeno. The shimp and tuna ceviche is hit-or-miss--disappointing when the tuna is a bit past its prime--but the pork taquitos are great. Among the entrees, skip the dry arroz con pollo in favor of the stellar mole--deep, thick and chocolatey--blanketing tender chicken or poured over a chicken enchilada. The chile rellenos, filled with surprising combo of spinach, raisins and pine nuts, and topped with herbed goat cheese, are outstanding. For dessert, the tres leches is great.

Know Before You Go

The house margarita is a tasty blended pomegranate concoction, but there's also homemade sangria and michelada, a classic Mexican drink made with lime juice, worcestershire sauce and tabasco topped off with beer.

1063 1st Ave
New York, NY 10022-2903
Phone: (212) 753-7407
Fax: (212) 724-2750