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La Esquina
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Soho
Best Tacos in Soho
Master Critic Review
La Esquina
8.1
For nearly two decades this Nolita/SoHo border institution has combined a streetside taqueria, corner café, and subterranean brasserie into one of downtown’s best-known Mexican addresses. Guests come for queso fundido, fish tacos, and late-night energy more than quiet refinement.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pescado tacos (char-grilled market fish), Queso fundido with queso Chihuahua and chile de árbol, Bistec con queso rib-eye tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Multi-level Mexican spot pairing a grab-and-go taqueria with a hidden brasserie and tequila bar.
Who should go: Groups seeking tacos, tequila, and downtown nightlife in one stop.
When to visit: Late evenings for peak music, energy, and the downstairs scene.
What to order: Fish tacos, queso fundido, bistec con queso tacos.
Insider tip: Book the brasserie in advance; if you can’t, the street-level taqueria is faster and still solid.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; nearby paid garages on Kenmare and Lafayette offer the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual with a nightlife edge—jeans are fine, but most guests lean stylish for the downstairs brasserie.
Noise level: Loud, especially in the basement brasserie; expect raised voices and a party-forward soundtrack.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for the brasserie.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait at the street-level taqueria; café dining is usually available within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage—vegetarian tacos, quesadillas, and sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—typically 2–3 items, plus modifiable tacos without cheese or crema.
Gluten-free options: Several corn-based items are naturally gluten-free, but the kitchen does not operate a dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a fun, high-energy date; the underground brasserie creates a lively atmosphere, though it’s too loud for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes at the street-level taqueria, but the brasserie typically requires advance booking; walk-ins at night may face long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—daytime and early-evening café service works for families, but the late-night scene and loud basement dining aren’t ideal for young kids.
Best For
Better for: Late-night energy, group celebrations, and the novelty of its multi-level setup—especially the hidden brasserie.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, refined service, or a fully vegan/gluten-free–friendly kitchen; other Mexican spots offer calmer, more ingredient-driven experiences.