Best Outdoor Dining Oasis Mexican Restaurants in Upper West Side (Central)
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Playa Betty’s
Baja‑inspired tacos and fresh seafood focus
Notable Picks
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Group Dining Gatherings
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Baja‑style tacos and coastal Mexican fare draw locals for well‑executed fish and shrimp tacos with bright slaws and vibrant sauces. Generous portions and a lively, casual atmosphere make it a reliable stop for lunch or a laid‑back dinner. Playa Betty’s thrives on familiar flavors with a West Coast twist.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Crispy Chips & Salsa
What makes it special: Baja‑inspired tacos and fresh seafood focus
#2
Tacombi
8.3
Colorful taqueria from a Mexico-born brand serving tacos, quesadillas, and aguas frescas in a laid-back space. Upper West Siders lean on it for quick counter-service meals that still feel like a sit-down break with consistent classics across locations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Baja Crispy Fish Taco, Corn Esquites
What makes it special: Bright, fast-casual taqueria with a focused taco and drinks lineup.
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.