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Casa Enrique
Master Critic Reviews (13 Lists)
Casa Enrique
8.8
A long-running LIC destination for regionally rooted Mexican cooking that leans into big, slow-cooked plates as much as tacos. The room stays energetic, and the kitchen’s best dishes reward ordering beyond the basics—think mole, braises, and seafood with deep chile-driven flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole de Piaxtla, Braised lamb shank, Branzino “al pastor”
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Mexican cooking anchored by mole, braises, and bigger plates.
Who should go: Food-focused dates and groups ordering family-style
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for smoother pacing
What to order: Mole, lamb shank, a taco or two
Insider tip: Order at least one “big plate” plus tacos to balance the meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be tight in the evening, easier earlier or during lunch
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but polished casual fits the room
Noise level: Moderate to loud—energetic room, conversation is easy but not hushed
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward tacos, sides, and mains
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be adapted, best to ask the server
Gluten-free options: Yes—many naturally gluten-free dishes, especially moles and braises
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially if food quality matters. It’s lively rather than intimate, but sharing standout dishes makes it feel intentional without being stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or lunch, but weekends are tough. Walk-ins work best early or late; otherwise, expect a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning. Older kids who eat broadly are fine, but there’s no kids menu or family-focused setup.
Best For
Better for: Deep, regional Mexican flavors and slow-cooked dishes that go beyond taco-focused spots
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, fast service, or a casual taco-only experience
Casa Enrique
8.6
A full-service Mexican dining room where tacos land like a composed plate, not a quick snack—best when you lean into slow-cooked meats and house-made salsas. Come hungry enough to treat tacos as part of a larger meal, because the room (and menu) rewards pacing and variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos, Cochinita pibil tacos, Guacamole with house chips
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Mexican cooking with tacos that eat like a proper dinner.
Who should go: Taco people who want a sit-down night
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easier tables
What to order: Cochinita tacos, carnitas tacos, guacamole
Insider tip: Order two taco styles, then add a third only if you’re still hungry.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking in Hunters Point; manageable on weeknights but tight after 6pm. Nearby paid garages within a few blocks if you don’t want to hunt.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but the room skews polished—dress like you’re going out to dinner, not grabbing street tacos.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively dining room energy, but you can still hold a full conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days, occasional short wait during peak noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several solid options including vegetable-forward tacos, sides, and guacamole-based plates.
Vegan options: Limited but possible – vegetable tacos and sides can be ordered without dairy; ask your server.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are standard and many dishes are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It feels special without being stuffy, and the pacing of the meal encourages conversation rather than rushed eating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends are tough. If you walk in, be prepared to wait or sit at off-peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids than toddlers. There’s no kids menu, but simple tacos and sides work if your kids are comfortable in a sit-down dining room.
Best For
Better for: Elevated, sit-down Mexican dining where tacos feel like a composed meal, with refined technique and consistent execution.
Skip if: You want fast, inexpensive tacos or a loud, casual taqueria vibe—this is more about dinner than quick bites.
Casa Enrique
8.6
A long-running LIC Mexican dining room that’s surprisingly strong for weekend brunch, especially when you want something beyond pancakes and eggs. The chilaquiles lane is the move—bold sauces, real heat, and a kitchen that handles volume without losing its grip.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles rojos, Huevos rancheros, Crab tostadas
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Brunch-ready Mexican classics with proven, high-volume consistency.
Who should go: Brunch groups who want savory, not sweet.
When to visit: Weekend at opening to beat the rush.
What to order: Chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, one margarita.
Insider tip: Commit to one brunch centerpiece dish—don’t over-order starters.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive on weekends; plan for nearby paid garages if driving.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but polished weekend wear fits the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — easy conversation early, louder once the brunch rush peaks.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of special events or holidays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — solid vegetarian-friendly brunch options like chilaquiles and egg-based plates.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes available; confirm tortillas and sauces with the server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially for daytime dates — the food is bold and conversation-worthy, and the vibe feels lively without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes if you arrive at opening or are willing to wait; reservations help a lot on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy savory food; space and noise are manageable, but it’s not a play-oriented brunch spot.
Best For
Better for: Savory, spice-forward brunch with real Mexican depth rather than generic eggs-and-toast menus.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet brunch, sweet breakfast dishes, or a quick in-and-out meal.
Casa Enrique
8.4
A long-running Mexican dining room that stays busy because the kitchen delivers beyond tacos—especially on bigger, technique-driven plates. Come for a proper sit-down meal with steady execution, strong sauces, and a room that runs like a neighborhood institution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Branzino al pastor, Braised lamb shank, Guacamole with house chips
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Bigger Mexican plates with real technique, not just snackable hits.
Who should go: Groups who want a full sit-down Mexican meal
When to visit: Weeknights to dodge peak weekend crowds
What to order: Branzino al pastor, lamb shank, tacos as sides
Insider tip: Prioritize the larger entrées—this kitchen shines there.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 6pm, easier earlier or on weekdays
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but polished casual fits the room best
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy but the room stays energetic
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute pause
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward mains and strong sides make a full meal possible
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be adapted, but not a deep vegan menu
Gluten-free options: Yes—many naturally gluten-free dishes; corn tortillas are standard
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a warm, lively setting with real food—less intimate than candlelit spots, but easygoing and conversation-friendly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or lunch, but weekends are tough—walk in early or expect a real wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, portions are shareable, and staff is accommodating, especially earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Full sit-down Mexican meals with technique-driven entrées, sauces, and consistency—stronger than taco-focused spots.
Skip if: You want a quick, casual taco stop or a quiet, romantic dining room—this place is built for meals, not snacks.
Casa Enrique
8.6
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Family Friendly Favorites
A destination-level Mexican dining room that’s best when you treat it like a full dinner, not a taco stop. Sauces and larger plates carry the meal, with the room’s steady buzz making it feel like an occasion without being precious.
Must-Try Dishes:
Branzino al pastor, Lamb shank, Mole de Piaxtla
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Big-plate Mexican cooking with deep sauces and reliable execution at scale.
Who should go: Celebration dinners that want real food
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing
What to order: Branzino, lamb shank, mole
Insider tip: Prioritize entrées over tacos—this kitchen shines on the larger plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive, especially after 6pm; paid garages within a few blocks are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but the room skews polished and celebratory.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy, but expect a steady buzz during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation is common
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-forward starters, enchiladas, and sides make a full meal possible.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be modified, but not all sauces are plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes rely on corn tortillas and naturally gluten-free preparations; staff is knowledgeable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want energy and momentum. It’s lively and social rather than intimate, which helps keep things flowing.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends strongly favor reservations unless you’re comfortable waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, especially earlier in the evening, though the noise and pacing skew better for school-age kids than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Celebration dinners, group meals, and full-plate Mexican cooking where sauces and entrées matter more than quick bites.
Skip if: You’re only craving tacos, want a quiet romantic setting, or need a fast, casual meal—there are better fits nearby for those goals.
Casa Enrique
8.8
A reservation-driven Mexican dining room that rewards ordering beyond tacos—think bigger plates with deep sauces and steady execution. The room stays buzzy, but the cooking reads confident and repeatable, making it a reliable outdoor-table pick when the weather cooperates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Branzino al pastor, Braised lamb shank, Mole (seasonal preparation)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Big-plate Mexican cooking where sauces and entrées are the main event.
Who should go: Celebration dinners that want real food
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for smoother pacing
What to order: Branzino, lamb shank, mole
Insider tip: Order entrées first, then add tacos as supporting players.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; a few paid garages are available within a 5–7 minute walk, which is the safest bet on busy nights.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but lean polished—especially if you’re sitting outdoors in the evening.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. You can hold a conversation, but expect background buzz during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, longer on warm nights when outdoor tables are in high demand.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-forward starters and mains, plus adaptable sides.
Vegan options: Limited — a few dishes can be modified, but it’s not a fully vegan-friendly menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many naturally gluten-free dishes; staff can guide you, but there’s no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially outdoors. The energy feels lively but not chaotic, and the menu encourages sharing without forcing awkward family-style ordering.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but it’s risky at dinner. Weeknights are your best shot; weekends usually require planning ahead, especially for outdoor seating.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning. Kids are welcome, but the vibe and menu skew toward grown-up dinners rather than quick family meals.
Best For
Better for: Confident, sauce-driven Mexican plates that feel like a proper sit-down meal—especially appealing when you want outdoor dining with real culinary weight.
Skip if: You’re just craving casual tacos or need a quiet, low-energy patio—there are more relaxed, faster options nearby.
Casa Enrique
8.6
A reservation-driven Mexican dining room that rewards ordering beyond tacos—deep sauces, bigger plates, and consistent execution. It’s buzzy without feeling chaotic, and the cooking reads confident when you lean into moles and stews instead of playing it safe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken mole enchiladas, Lamb shank, Tacos de lengua
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Sauce-forward Mexican entrées that hold up under real demand.
Who should go: Date nights and celebratory dinners
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easier pacing
What to order: Mole enchiladas, lamb shank, lengua tacos
Insider tip: Order entrées first; add tacos as the finish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby but competitive after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but lean polished for night reservations.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation-friendly early, louder as the room fills.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-forward dishes and sauces; easy to order a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be modified, but confirm with the server.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options; sauces vary, so ask for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—polished, buzzy energy with food that gives you something to talk about without overwhelming the room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends are tough—book ahead or expect a real wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—better for teens than young kids; no kids menu and a lively evening scene.
Best For
Better for: Sauce-driven, composed Mexican entrées and a true sit-down dinner experience.
Skip if: You want quick tacos, a quiet meal, or a very budget-focused night out.
Casa Enrique
8.6
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Date Night Magic
A reservation-driven Mexican dining room where the kitchen leans into deeply sauced classics instead of trend-chasing small plates. The best meals here come from sharing a couple of composed mains and letting the slow-cooked flavors do the work—especially when you’re hosting a group and want the night to feel cohesive.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole enchiladas, Cochinita pibil, Seasonal pescado special
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Chiapas-inspired cooking that stays sauce-forward and shareable.
Who should go: Groups who want a reliable celebration dinner
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for the smoothest pacing
What to order: Mole enchiladas, cochinita pibil, seasonal fish special
Insider tip: Order family-style early so mains land together, not staggered.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited after 6pm. Metered spots nearby, but plan extra time or rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most diners lean polished for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to hold a conversation, but it feels energetic during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward dishes and meatless mains available.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be modified, but not a fully vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes rely on corn tortillas and naturally gluten-free preparations; staff is accommodating.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you like sharing plates—the room feels warm and celebratory without being overly loud or formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends are tough—booking ahead is the safer move.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids who enjoy full-flavored dishes; it’s more of an adult celebration spot than a casual family room.
Best For
Better for: Hosting groups who want composed, sauce-driven Mexican dishes served family-style rather than a parade of small plates.
Skip if: You’re looking for quick tacos, a loud party bar vibe, or a very casual, drop-in meal.
Casa Enrique
8.6
A composed Mexican dining room that runs lunch with the same sauce-forward confidence as dinner—ideal when you need a real sit-down meal that still lands on time. The move is to anchor with one slow-cooked main and one bright, market-driven plate so the table feels intentional without getting heavy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole enchiladas, Cochinita pibil, Seasonal fish special
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Sauce-driven regional cooking that holds up for client lunches.
Who should go: Client meals and team leads on a schedule
When to visit: Weekday lunch reservations, earlier seating
What to order: Mole enchiladas, cochinita pibil, seasonal special
Insider tip: Order mains together early so the kitchen paces cleanly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking in Hunters Point; metered spots nearby and paid garages within a 5–10 minute walk. Allow extra time if driving.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished—jeans are fine, but most business lunches skew blazer-ready.
Noise level: Moderate and controlled—easy to hold a client conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait with a reservation; walk-ins may wait 10–20 minutes during peak noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several composed vegetable-forward plates and sides can anchor a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—ask the server to guide you toward market plates and modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many mains are naturally gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable about accommodations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want polished but not stiff. The room feels confident and intimate without being overly quiet, which keeps conversation flowing.
Can I get a table without a reservation? At lunch, sometimes—arrive right at opening or after 1:30pm for the best odds. For a time-sensitive business meal, a reservation is the safer move.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited to adults. Well-behaved kids are welcome, but there’s no dedicated kids menu and the vibe skews professional at lunch.
Best For
Better for: Client lunches that need credibility, pacing, and real cooking—not just quick bites or trendy small plates.
Skip if: You need a sub-45-minute in-and-out lunch or something ultra-casual; faster taquerias or cafés nearby will serve you better.
Casa Enrique
8.7
A bar-friendly, polished Mexican room where the cooking stays focused on deeply practiced classics and bigger plates that reward committing to a full order, not just chips and salsa. It’s a strong happy-hour move when you want a real margarita and a couple of serious dishes in a lively, reservation-worthy space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole with totopos, Chicken mole, Braised lamb shank
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Michelin-noted Mexican classics executed with steady, repeatable precision.
Who should go: Margarita people who want real dinner too
When to visit: Weekday early evening before peak reservations
What to order: Guac and totopos, mole, one larger plate
Insider tip: Split one big main instead of over-ordering small plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive after 6pm; most guests rely on rideshare or walking from nearby offices.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but polished tops, jackets, or date-night outfits fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to talk early in the evening, louder once dinner service ramps up.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-forward starters and mains, though the menu isn’t strictly vegetarian-focused.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be adapted, but it’s best to ask the server.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn-based tortillas and several naturally gluten-free dishes; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—upscale without feeling stiff, with strong margaritas and shareable dishes that make conversation easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays if you arrive early; otherwise plan on bar seating or a short wait at opening.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning—better for teens than younger kids, and best enjoyed without strollers during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Polished Mexican cooking with real depth—stronger execution and atmosphere than casual neighborhood taquerias.
Skip if: You’re just looking for cheap tacos or a quick margarita; this is better treated as a full meal stop.
Casa Enrique
8.7
A polished, bar-friendly Mexican institution where tacos are the smart opener but the kitchen really rewards committing to a couple serious plates. It’s best used for a happy-hour start that turns into a full dinner in a lively room that stays consistently dialed-in.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lengua tacos, Guacamole + totopos, Mole (seasonal preparations)
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A proven LIC Mexican anchor where tacos and bigger plates both deliver.
Who should go: Happy-hour couples and groups who want real dinner
When to visit: Weekdays early evening before peak reservations
What to order: Lengua tacos, guac, one larger main
Insider tip: Start with tacos, then split one big plate instead of over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited metered spots nearby and can be difficult after 6pm. Garage options within a few blocks if needed.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jeans are fine, but polished tops or a jacket won’t feel out of place.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can hold a conversation, but it gets buzzy as the room fills.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait to 15 minutes typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-focused tacos and mains available.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of naturally vegan options, but not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas and several gluten-free-friendly dishes; staff is knowledgeable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it strikes a strong balance between polished and lively, giving you enough energy without feeling chaotic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays if you arrive early, but reservations are strongly recommended for evenings and weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults — kids are welcome, but the vibe, pricing, and pacing skew date night over family dining.
Best For
Better for: A refined Mexican experience that transitions smoothly from happy hour tacos into a full, satisfying dinner.
Skip if: You’re only looking for cheap tacos or a quick, casual bar bite — this rewards settling in.
Casa Enrique
8.6
A Long Island City anchor for Mexico City–leaning classics where corn tortillas, salsas, and slow-cooked proteins do most of the talking. For gluten-free diners, the menu is naturally friendly when you stick to tacos, grilled mains, and table staples and confirm any sauces or fried items.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole with totopos, Suadero tacos, Tacos al pastor
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Corn-tortilla Mexican cooking that’s naturally gluten-free-friendly with smart ordering.
Who should go: Celiac diners who still want a real dinner.
When to visit: Weeknights early for smoother pacing.
What to order: Guacamole, suadero tacos, pastor tacos.
Insider tip: Confirm sauces and any shared fryers before you commit.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby but fill quickly after 6pm. Garage options are a few blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but the room leans date-night polished rather than ultra-casual.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to talk at your table, but expect a buzzy dining-room energy.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially Friday and Saturday nights.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 10–15 minute pause.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-forward tacos, sides, and starters make it workable.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with careful ordering and sauce checks, but not a core strength.
Gluten-free options: Strong—many naturally gluten-free dishes built around corn tortillas and grilled proteins, but confirm sauces and shared prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic lighting, energetic buzz, and shareable plates make it easy and engaging without feeling stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends are tough—book ahead or expect a real wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults and older kids; there’s no kids menu, and the evening crowd skews date-night focused.
Best For
Better for: Gluten-free diners who want classic Mexican flavors without feeling limited or stuck in a ‘health food’ lane.
Skip if: You need guaranteed zero cross-contamination or want a quiet, early-evening family dinner.
Casa Enrique
8.6
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Comfort Food Classics
A Mexico City–leaning neighborhood anchor where the kitchen’s strengths show best in composed, full-plate mains rather than just tacos. It’s a lively room that still works for families if you go early and order the table a mix of shareables and one “big plate” to split.
Must-Try Dishes:
Branzino “al pastor”, Braised lamb shank, Guacamole with house salsas
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Full-plate Mexican cooking that’s built for sharing beyond tacos.
Who should go: Families who want a real dinner, not fast casual.
When to visit: Early dinner to beat the peak crowd.
What to order: Guacamole, a taco set, one big main to share.
Insider tip: Order one centerpiece main for the table, then fill in with tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Vernon Blvd and nearby side streets; can be tight after 6pm, rideshare often easier on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed dresses are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is easy early, louder during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-forward mains, sides, and tacos make it easy to build a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, best to ask the server for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many naturally gluten-free dishes using corn tortillas; confirm sauces and prep for sensitivities.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual or relaxed date than a quiet, intimate one — the energy is lively and the food encourages sharing rather than focused conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weekdays or if you arrive early; weekends are doable but expect a wait unless you come right at opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for school-age kids who eat broadly; the room is energetic, high chairs are available, but it’s less ideal for strollers or very young toddlers during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Families and groups who want a sit-down Mexican dinner with real mains, not just tacos or counter service.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic meal or a quick in-and-out taco stop — this is built for lingering and sharing.