Best Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Mexican Restaurants in Lower East Side
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Barrio Chino
Tequila-focused LES standby where margaritas and tacos anchor lively nights.
Notable Picks
#1
Barrio Chino
8.3
Barrio Chino is a long-running Broome Street fixture pairing strong margaritas with a compact menu of tacos, enchiladas, and tequila-friendly snacks. The narrow, dim room gets loud and energetic, making it a go-to for casual dates and group catch-ups more than business dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Enchiladas, Tequila Shrimp, Guacamole with House Chips
What makes it special: Tequila-focused LES standby where margaritas and tacos anchor lively nights.
Worthy Picks
7.6
Essex Taqueria is a straightforward counter-service shop turning out tacos, burritos, and plates at lower-than-average neighborhood prices. The focus is on speed and value over ambiance, making it useful for quick meals before or after nearby bars and markets.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Burrito, Chicken Quesadilla
What makes it special: No-frills taqueria where pricing, portions, and speed are the main draw.
#3
Taco Recipes
7.5
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Group Dining Gatherings
Taco Recipes is a casual, family-friendly Mexican spot that runs a broad menu of tacos, burritos, wings, and Tex-Mex plates. It’s the kind of place neighbors lean on for delivery or low-key sit-down meals where classic taco fillings and big portions carry the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Chicken Tacos
What makes it special: A broad, delivery-friendly menu where classic tacos come alongside Tex-Mex standards.