Best Mexican Restaurants in University Village
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Taquería El Chato
Mexico City–style tacos from the Aldama team, served late just off Washington Square.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Opened in 2025 by the Aldama team and chef Gerardo Alcaraz, this compact MacDougal counter channels Mexico City street-stand energy with trompo-cut al pastor, vampiros, and quesadillas on housemade tortillas. It’s become a go-to late-night stop for Washington Square crowds willing to queue for punchy tacos over pristine seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco al pastor on housemade corn tortilla, Q asada steak quesadilla, Vampiro with melted Chihuahua cheese and steak
What makes it special: Mexico City–style tacos from the Aldama team, served late just off Washington Square.
7.9
Tucked into a narrow SoHo storefront, Sullivan Taqueria focuses on carefully seasoned tacos, burrito bowls, and quesadillas at prices that stay relatively gentle for the area. With strong online ratings and a menu spanning barbacoa, pescado al grill, and birria, it’s a reliable everyday option rather than a splashy destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa de res taco (slow-roasted beef brisket), Pescado al grill taco (grilled wild-caught cod), Birria tacos with consomé
What makes it special: Small, independently run taqueria turning out carefully seasoned tacos in central SoHo.
7.8
Vibes:
Live Music Showtime
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
A Mercer Street fixture since 1989, Gonzalez y Gonzalez is as much a salsa-club and margarita bar as it is a Mexican restaurant, with live bands, free dance lessons, and large-format platters. Food leans classic—fajitas, enchiladas, and churros—while the draw is big-night-out energy in the heart of Greenwich Village.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic fajitas (steak, chicken or shrimp) with warm tortillas, Shrimp enchiladas with lobster chipotle sauce, Churros with cinnamon sugar
What makes it special: Long-running Mexican restaurant and salsa club known for margaritas, live bands, and dancing.