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Jajaja Mexicana
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Jajaja Mexicana
8.8
Jajaja Mexicana is a plant-based Mexican restaurant where colorful plates, creative tacos, and a deep mezcal list pull in crowds from beyond the neighborhood. The space feels bright and social, leaning more toward fun group dinners and brunch than quiet, lingering meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grande Nachos, Buffalo Flower Tacos, Chorizo Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: All-vegan Mexican menu with big flavors and a party-ready room.
Who should go: Plant-based diners and groups wanting colorful, social meals.
When to visit: Weekend brunch and early evenings before the wait balloons.
What to order: Grande Nachos, Buffalo Flower Tacos, Chorizo Burrito.
Insider tip: Plan for a wait at peak times and grab a cocktail while you do.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Two Bridges; expect metered spots and competitive evening demand. Best to use rideshare or walk from nearby subway stations.
Dress code: Casual but curated—most guests lean stylish or trendy. Jeans and nice tops are standard, but brunch crowds often go brighter for photos.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch and early evening. You can hold a conversation, but it's not a quiet room.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak brunch-to-dinner turnover.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; tables turn quickly and walk-ins are common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is plant-based, so all dishes qualify.
Vegan options: Yes — 100% vegan menu with no substitutions needed.
Gluten-free options: Several GF options are available and clearly marked, though not prepared in a dedicated GF facility.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something lively and colorful rather than intimate. The bright dishes and fun cocktails give you conversation starters, but the room's energy may be too loud for a deep-heart-to-heart first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for weekday lunches and early evenings. Weekends require patience—add your name to the list and grab a mezcal cocktail while waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy bold flavors and energetic rooms. Limited space for strollers, and no kid-specific menu, so it’s not ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Vegan Mexican dishes with vibrant presentation, strong mezcal cocktails, and a social, photo-friendly atmosphere.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional Mexican preparations, or need a spacious layout for families with small children.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.5
Jajaja Mexicana LES is a plant-based Mexican spot where tacos, cocktails, and natural-leaning wines all get the same attention to detail. The menu leans into creative fillings like jackfruit carnitas and beet-based chorizo, served in a tight, lively room that feels built for nights out on the Lower East Side.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos, Chorizo Beet Tacos, Buffalo Flower Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A fully plant-based Mexican menu where tacos and cocktails are equally prioritized.
Who should go: Groups who want vegan tacos without sacrificing nightlife energy.
When to visit: Prime evening hours when the bar and room feel most alive.
What to order: Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos, Chorizo Beet Tacos, Buffalo Flower Tacos.
Insider tip: Start at the bar for a cocktail and snack, then slide into a table when one opens up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect limited availability on weeknights and very tough parking after 6pm on weekends. Paid garages are available within a 3–5 minute walk on Essex and Allen.
Dress code: Trendy casual; most guests lean stylish with elevated streetwear or casual date-night outfits. Jeans are common, but the vibe skews polished.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is possible at tables but bar seating leans loud during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially between 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; often seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is vegetarian by design with robust, flavorful options.
Vegan options: Yes — most dishes are fully vegan, and staff can guide substitutions when needed.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free tacos and plates are available, but there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy LES room, creative cocktails, and stylish crowd create an energetic but intimate vibe that works well for a fun, low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait during prime dinner hours. Your best bet is arriving early, putting your name in, and grabbing a drink at the bar while you wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children due to the tight space and nighttime energy, but older teens who enjoy plant-based food and lively settings will feel comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Creative vegan Mexican dishes with a nightlife edge, stylish cocktails, and a social LES atmosphere that outshines more traditional or casual plant-based taco spots.
Skip if: You prefer traditional meat-focused tacos, need a quiet dining room, or require strict gluten-free handling.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.6
Since 2017, Jajaja’s Lower East Side flagship has served plant-based Mexican dishes and cocktails in a highly designed, always-busy dining room. Burrito offerings like the chorizo burrito and Huevo Burrito use Spanish rice, beans, and vegan proteins to deliver dense, sauce-smothered wraps that appeal to vegans and omnivores alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chorizo Burrito, Huevo Burrito, Barbacoa Burrito Bowl
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A vegan Mexican flagship where burritos, cocktails, and design-driven ambiance meet in one LES room.
Who should go: Vegans and omnivores wanting lively, plant-based burritos.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early brunch to dodge peak crowds.
What to order: Chorizo Burrito, Huevo Burrito, Barbacoa Burrito Bowl.
Insider tip: Book a reservation and plan to linger over cocktails after your burrito course.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on busy Orchard Street; expect to circle during peak hours. Paid garages on Ludlow and Essex are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Trendy casual; stylish jeans and a nice top fit the room’s design-forward vibe.
Noise level: Lively with constant energy; conversation is possible but expect a buzzier backdrop during peak service.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation due to strong demand.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, with tables turning quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is vegetarian-friendly as dishes are built around plant-based ingredients.
Vegan options: Yes — the restaurant is fully vegan, with burritos, bowls, and small plates all plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free; staff typically notes substitutions for tortillas or sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the colorful room, strong cocktails, and lively energy create a fun, upbeat atmosphere that works well for a casual first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — walk-ins are welcome, but waits can be long at prime dinner hours. Arriving early or late in the service window improves your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — families do visit, but the room skews adult with a louder evening scene. Best suited for older kids comfortable with busier dining rooms.
Best For
Better for: Design-first ambiance, vegan burritos with creative fillings, and cocktails that feel more curated than typical neighborhood spots.
Skip if: You prefer classic, meat-based burritos or want a quieter, more traditional Mexican dining experience.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.4
Jajaja Mexicana's Lower East Side location turns a corner of East Broadway into a plant-based Mexican sidewalk scene, with outdoor tables packed for brunch, cocktails, and late-night tacos. Colorful plates, a strong mezcal and tequila list, and consistently lively energy make the outdoor seating feel like a casual party when the weather cooperates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy chayote tacos, Enchiladas verdes, Birria tacos
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 6.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Lively plant-based Mexican plates and cocktails served at tightly packed sidewalk tables.
Who should go: Vegan-friendly brunchers, cocktail groups, and colorful date nights.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or golden hour for peak patio atmosphere.
What to order: Crispy chayote tacos, enchiladas verdes, and a mezcal margarita.
Insider tip: Ask for sidewalk seating when reserving; it goes first on nice days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on East Broadway is limited, especially during peak brunch and dinner hours; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages within a 5–8 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual but lively; colorful outfits fit the scene, and weekend brunchers often lean stylish without needing anything formal.
Noise level: Moderate to loud outdoors, especially during brunch and early evening; expect energetic patio chatter more than quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes for walk-ins, longer on warm-weather evenings when outdoor tables fill quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait, with occasional short queues during peak nice-weather days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Fully covered — nearly the entire menu is vegetarian-friendly with creative plant-based takes on Mexican staples.
Vegan options: Extensive — most items are vegan by default, with clearly labeled plant-based proteins and dairy alternatives.
Gluten-free options: Solid options — several dishes can be made gluten-free, though cross-contact is possible due to shared prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, high-energy dates where playful cocktails and colorful plates set a fun tone; less ideal if you're looking for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect waits during prime brunch and warm evenings. Arrive early or join the waitlist; patio spots are claimed fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy lively spaces and bold flavors; limited room for strollers and no dedicated children’s menu, so midday visits work best.
Best For
Better for: Plant-based Mexican dishes with a lively sidewalk scene, standout cocktails, and one of the more energetic patios in the Lower East Side.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional meat-based Mexican dishes, or guaranteed quick seating during peak outdoor-dining hours.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.6
This all-vegan Mexican spot on the LES turns its corner patio into a lively scene of plant-based tacos, cocktails, and dog-friendly outdoor tables. Locals use it for brunch, happy hour, and low-key nights out where pups can lounge under the table while you work through mezcal drinks and shared plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grande Nachos, Crispy Pescado Tacos, Beet y Pumpkin Empanadas
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A high-energy vegan Mexican patio where dogs and mezcal both feel welcome.
Who should go: Dog owners who want vibrant vegan Mexican and cocktails.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or golden hour for peak patio buzz.
What to order: Grande Nachos, Crispy Pescado Tacos, Beet y Pumpkin Empanadas.
Insider tip: Ask for a sidewalk patio table near the corner for the best people-watching while your dog relaxes with a water bowl.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on East Broadway before 6pm but becomes challenging during weekend brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual and colorful; come as you are, but many guests lean stylish due to the LES vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; outdoor tables are buzzy but still allow casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak evenings, especially for outdoor pet-friendly tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with patios filling slowly after 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—every item is vegetarian since the entire menu is plant-based.
Vegan options: Yes—100% vegan menu with extensive choices across tacos, bowls, and snacks.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—several dishes can be made gluten-free, though not the entire menu; staff will guide you to corn-based and GF-safe options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something energetic and low-pressure. The patio has fun LES energy, but it’s not ideal for intimate, quiet conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—it's walk-in friendly. For pet-friendly outdoor seating, arriving early or off-peak helps secure a patio table.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—daytime hours work fine for families, but the space skews more adult and social during evenings and brunch rush. No kid-specific menu.
Best For
Better for: Bright vegan Mexican plates, strong cocktails, and a dog-friendly patio that blends social energy with approachable prices.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, large indoor seating, or gluten-free menus with extensive dedicated options.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.4
Jajaja Mexicana turns a Lower East Side corner into a plant-based Mexican party, with colorful plates, a deep mezcal list, and a constant hum at both the bar and sidewalk tables. It is one of the neighborhood's most visible vegan restaurants, drawing mixed groups who care more about fun and flavor than labels.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy chayote tacos, Grande nachos, Beet and pumpkin empanadas
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Vegan Mexican plates and agave drinks served in a high-energy, design-forward room.
Who should go: Groups wanting lively vegan-friendly tacos and cocktails.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or golden hour for peak patio and bar energy.
What to order: Grande nachos, crispy chayote tacos, beet and pumpkin empanadas.
Insider tip: Bar seats often turn over faster than tables and still give full menu access.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be very limited on East Broadway, especially evenings and weekends. Plan for paid garages a few blocks away.
Dress code: Casual but stylish; bright colors, denim, and weekend-brunch looks all fit the scene.
Noise level: High-energy with steady background music and table chatter; still manageable for groups, but not ideal for intimate conversations.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation, with sidewalk waitlists common.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though peak brunch hours can still see short delays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Fully vegetarian-friendly; nearly the entire menu is plant-based.
Vegan options: Yes — this is an all-vegan restaurant with thoughtful substitutions across tacos, bowls, and snacks.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly dishes, including tacos and bowls; staff can point out safe options but cross-contact is possible in a compact kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you're aiming for something upbeat and playful, with colorful plates and great drinks. Not ideal if you're hoping for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect waits during brunch and dinner peaks. The bar turns over faster and offers the full menu.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy lively spaces and bold flavors; limited room for strollers and no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest options for energetic vegan Mexican with vibrant cocktails and a social scene, especially for groups and brunch plans.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, have very strict gluten-free needs, or prefer traditional, non-vegan Mexican preparations.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.4
A vegan‑first Mexican spot serving creative, colorful tacos, enchiladas, and more — beloved for mixing traditional flavors with plant‑based flair and lively cocktails. Locals and visitors come for the fun vibe, generous portions, and solid value under $30 per person. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Mushroom (hongos) quesadilla, Buffalo‑flower tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Fully vegan‑friendly Mexican with creative dishes, house tortillas, and mezcal drinks.
Who should go: Vegans and adventurous eaters seeking flavorful tacos with cocktails.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or lively evening hours.
What to order: Birria tacos, mushroom quesadilla, buffalo‑flower tacos.
Insider tip: Go for late‑night brunch or cocktails to catch the full energetic vibe.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and often fills up quickly; no dedicated lot. Consider rideshare or nearby metered spots, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Casual-chic: trendy yet comfortable. Jeans and stylish tops are perfect; no formal attire required.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially during weekend evenings and brunch hours. Conversation is possible but may require leaning in.
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes without a reservation; shorter if arriving before 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, often seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - most dishes are plant-based and many are inherently vegetarian.
Vegan options: Fully vegan-friendly with a dedicated menu, including tacos, enchiladas, and creative small plates.
Gluten-free options: Some options available, but confirm with staff for specific items; corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if your date enjoys casual, vibrant spots with creative cocktails and fun presentation. The lively atmosphere can help ease nerves, but choose a slightly earlier hour to avoid peak noise.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, particularly on weekday evenings or late-night brunch, but weekends can be busy. Arriving early or using a reservation app is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for very young children due to noise and cocktail-focused environment. Suitable for older kids who enjoy casual, colorful food.
Best For
Better for: Stands out for fully vegan Mexican with bold, inventive flavors and cocktails at great value, unlike traditional Mexican spots with limited plant-based options.
Skip if: Skip if seeking a quiet, family-oriented dinner or traditional meat-heavy Mexican dishes; consider alternatives for a more subdued dining experience.
Jajaja Mexicana
8.2
Casual, vibrant and fully vegan Mexican — with tacos, enchiladas, chorizo burritos, and a fun cocktail program that brings a festive energy to plant‑based dining. Great for brunch, dinner or late‑night eats when you want flavor and atmosphere without pretense.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom‑chorizo tacos, Enchiladas suizas, Churros with coconut dulce de leche
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Colorful, fully vegan Mexican street‑food with mezcal cocktails and party‑ready energy.
Who should go: Friends seeking lively vegan Mexican dinners
When to visit: Weekend evenings or brunch for full vibe and cocktails
What to order: Mushroom‑chorizo tacos, Enchiladas suizas, Churros w/ coconut dulce de leche
Insider tip: Go for weekend brunch or late‑night tacos — expect a lively, social crowd
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Lower East Side; metered spots available but can be scarce after 6pm. No on-site parking.
Dress code: Casual trendy — jeans, casual tops, and comfortable shoes are perfect; slightly dressy attire works for brunch or night out.
Noise level: Lively and energetic — conversations can be heard, but expect background music and crowd noise during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, often immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: All menu items are vegan, so vegetarian diners are fully covered.
Vegan options: Yes — 100% vegan menu with creative takes on Mexican classics.
Gluten-free options: Several options available; tacos can be made with corn tortillas, but check with staff for cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the vibrant, festive atmosphere sets a fun tone, though it’s lively, so conversation may require leaning in.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekday evenings or early brunch, but weekends and late nights are busy — reservations strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately — older kids who enjoy flavorful food may enjoy it, but the lively, crowded vibe and alcohol-focused bar make it less ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Festive, fully vegan Mexican with creative cocktails and a lively social atmosphere — stands out from quieter or more traditional vegan spots.
Skip if: If you want a quiet, intimate meal or have very young children, other calm vegan restaurants may be a better choice.