Best Cheap Mexican Restaurants in Midtown East (10017)
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Los Tacos No. 1
Ultra-focused taco menu with proven, high-volume consistency.
Notable Picks
8.8
A Grand Central-area counter that stays laser-focused on a tight menu executed with speed and repeatable precision—fresh tortillas, properly seasoned meats, and a salsa bar that lets you tune heat and acidity to taste. It’s best when you order simply and eat immediately: two tacos plus one quesadilla/mula is the move for peak texture.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada Taco, Carne Asada Taco, Adobada Quesadilla (or Mula)
What makes it special: Ultra-focused taco menu with proven, high-volume consistency.
#2
Sinigual
8.2
A Midtown East sit-down Mexican room built for after-work groups and polished dinners, with a menu that leans into bold sauces, sizzling proteins, and crowd-friendly shareables. It’s strongest when you start with a tableside opener, then commit to one signature taco or steak-driven plate rather than over-ordering the middle.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tableside Guacamole, Taco Vampiros, Carne Asada y Chimichurri
What makes it special: Tableside-forward Mexican classics with a big-menu, group-friendly format.
Worthy Picks
7.7
A no-frills Midtown takeout counter that hits when you want straightforward street-food staples without committing to a sit-down meal. The best orders stay classic—tacos plus one hot item—then let their salsas do the heavy lifting for flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos Al Pastor, Birria Tacos, Chicken Quesadilla
What makes it special: Straight-ahead takeout tacos and quesadillas built for lunch cravings.