Mercadito
(212) 529-6490
179 Ave B
New York,
NY
10009
40.7277
-73.9793
Neighborhoods: Alphabet City, East Village, Downtown
What People Are Saying About Mercadito
The Editor
Allison Austin
Citysearch
The Scene
With table seating for just 14 inside (there's an enclosed back patio area with additional seating) and a bar that fits about eight, this softly lit, wood-lined jewel box of a place emanates a cozy warmth and a get-to-know-your-neighbor charm. Service is rushed yet friendly, always taking the time to check in and chat.
The Food
Chef Patricio Sandoval starts with the building blocks of authentic Mexican cuisine and adds his own flair. That means the just-mashed guacamole is brightened with little bits of mint and pineapple, and that shrimp seviche arrives in an addictive chili-coconut milk and lime juice bath. Tacos, including tender ancho-guajillo-rubbed pork and rosemary-marinated chicken with corn, come three to a plate and are perfect for sharing. Don't leave without ordering Sandoval's outstanding baked oysters, which arrive in their shell topped with a bit of manchego cheese and homemade chorizo.
User Reviews
ktobiassen
October 17, 2008
My friend had her birthday party here. Upon arrival, we were told that there would be a price fixe of $30 per person for chips, ceviche, and tacos. Not what I might have chosen, but whatever, fine. We were also informed that there would be a price fixe of $30 per person for open bar. When we explained that several people in our group don't drink, we were basically told tough luck -- opting out of open bar was not an option. This was a 40-year old crowd, generally not big drinkers. With the tax, tip, and kicking in for the birthday girl, it was almost $80 per person for tacos and one or two drinks. I feel robbed and angry. Take a look at the people giving this place 'awesome' ratings -- it seems the vast majority of them have only reviewed this one particular restaurant. Highly suspicious!
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nycshan
September 16, 2008
My friends and I had reservations on Saturday night for 8:30. It was raining, so obviously the outside seating was not an option. We had to wait until 9:30 to sit and we had to stand outside in the rain while waiting for our table due to the tight quarters inside. No apologies, no explanation, nada. The food was yummy, though petite...to put it nicely. Our waitress was nice, but the management is rude.
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andy99
August 20, 2008
The restaurant completely lost our reservation and did nothing to accomodate us when we were there. We were told "it should only be 5-10 minutes" three times and finally got fed up and left. I get the sense that they did not lose our reservation but rather did not have the guile to just admit that they were full. Like other bullsh*t NYC restaurants, the policy at Mercadito is to take more reservations than they can honor in order to ensure that they get business. Considering we tried to eat here on a Tuesday, I can only imagine how many frustrated customers wait for their "reservations" on a weekend. Save your money and eat at Papaya Dog instead
read full reviewThe Details on Mercadito
Know Before You Go:
After opening with a no-reservation policy, the restaurant is now taking reservations.
The Extras:
Want to enjoy Mercadito's authentic cuisine at your next party? Call for catering rates.
What to Drink:
The house margaritas are outstanding, especially the citrus version with orange, grapefruit, lemon and a bit of habanero for zing, and the margarita "de playa" with orange, lime and jicama juices, and a touch of chipotle. For purists, the chelada---beer, lime, Worcestershire and Tabasco.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Brunch, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Notable Chef:
Patricio Sandoval
