Best Mexican Restaurants in Upper West Side-Manhattan Valley
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Calaveras
A tucked-away Mexican room where cocktails and tacos actually match the vibe.
Notable Picks
8.1
A cozy, lower-level Mexican dining room that works best as a shared-plates night with cocktails in the mix. It’s strongest when you keep the order tight—one bright starter, one taco set, and one larger plate—so the meal feels structured instead of scattered.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles verdes (brunch), Fish tacos, Sangria
What makes it special: A tucked-away Mexican room where cocktails and tacos actually match the vibe.
Worthy Picks
7.7
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
A casual taqueria built around big, customizable plates and a broad menu that’s designed for repeat takeout and low-drama group ordering. Stick to the taco-and-quesadilla core and you’ll get the best version of what the kitchen does well.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Birria quesadilla, Horchata
What makes it special: A high-utility taqueria where big portions make ordering easy.