Best Happy Hour Mexican Restaurants in Upper West Side (Central)
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Covacha
Jalisco-focused cooking with Bib Gourmand recognition and serious cocktails.
Notable Picks
#1
Covacha
8.8
Modern Mexican restaurant on the Upper West Side serving Jalisco-inspired ranch cooking with a serious cocktail program. The kitchen leans into slow-cooked moles, barbacoa, and seafood plates that have earned it a Bib Gourmand nod and a steady local following.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Dulce Pork Belly Plato, Zarandeado Whole Striped Bass, Guacamole Ashes
What Makes it Special: Jalisco-focused cooking with Bib Gourmand recognition and serious cocktails.
8.3
A lively Upper West Side Mexican room where the menu goes beyond tacos into plates built for a full sit-down dinner. The move is to treat it like a tequila-bar meal: one signature protein, one sauce-forward dish, and a round of strong margaritas to carry the pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken mole, Tacos al pastor, Margaritas
What Makes it Special: A tequila-forward Mexican dinner spot with a real “order plates” rhythm.
#3
Cilantro
8.2
Tex-Mex stalwart on Columbus Avenue where fajitas, enchiladas, and big platters anchor a broad menu. Regulars rely on it for generous portions, strong drinks, and a casual room that works for groups as much as weeknight dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Molcajete Guacamole, Chicken Fajita, Mole Chicken Enchiladas
What Makes it Special: Tex-Mex favorite with a wide menu, late hours, and a full bar.
Worthy Picks
7.9
A neighborhood Mexican spot that plays well for taco nights with drinks, especially when you stick to the tacos that stay crisp and balanced. Treat it like a taco-and-margarita session: a few tacos per person, one shared starter, and let the bar carry the pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken tacos, Vegetarian tacos, Margarita
What Makes it Special: A drink-friendly taco spot that works best as a casual sit-down night.