Best Mexican Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay (10016)
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
El Parador Cafe
NYC’s oldest continuously running Mexican restaurant, with classic mole and margaritas in a low-lit room.
Notable Picks
8.7
El Parador Cafe is a white-stucco, low-lit Mexican dining room that has been serving mole, fajitas, and margaritas since 1959. Regulars treat it as a grown-up spot for sit-down dinners, strong drinks, and plates that lean more classic than trendy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole poblano de pollo, Grilled chicken fajitas, Baja fish tacos
What makes it special: NYC’s oldest continuously running Mexican restaurant, with classic mole and margaritas in a low-lit room.
#2
Street Taco
8.4
Street Taco is a buzzy Kips Bay bar and taqueria where neon, murals, and a VW bus set the tone for plates of heritage-inspired tacos. It’s where locals go for margaritas, music, and a lively crowd that runs late into the night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Fried chicken tacos, Pineapple margarita
What makes it special: High-energy tacos-and-tequila spot with playful decor and serious margaritas.
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Cinco De Mayo Authentic Mexican Cuisine runs a tight, casual spot on East 31st that doubles as both a neighborhood restaurant and a busy catering hub. People lean on it for enchilada platters, grilled chicken salads, and big trays that feed entire offices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cinco de Mayo Plate, Enchiladas, Grilled Chicken Guacamole Salad
What makes it special: High-volume neighborhood Mexican spot known for feeding offices and families with hearty platters.
Al Horno Lean Mexican Kitchen takes a build-your-own burrito and bowl format and steers it toward grilled proteins, whole grains, and lighter sauces. It’s a go-to for nearby offices needing fast, relatively healthy Mexican that still tastes satisfying.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lean beef barbacoa burrito, Morning breakfast burrito, Gym Bowl
What makes it special: Health-leaning Mexican bowls and burritos with plenty of customizations and grilled proteins.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Tacos Times Square is a compact counter on East 27th turning out tacos, burritos, and tortas built for quick lunches and takeout. Despite the name, it feels more like a neighborhood standby than a tourist spot, with friendly service and consistent portions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne asada tacos, Bronx burger quesadilla, Cinco de Mayo platter
What makes it special: Tiny counter-service taqueria with griddled tacos, quesadillas, and fast turnaround.