New York Other Cities

Welcome to Citysearch!

Find what you were looking for? (Hint: You can use the search box in the upper left-hand corner to track down anything you want. We're here to help, so click around.)
 | close

Browse

Restaurants

Also of Interest

Restaurants

Best of Citysearch

New York Restaurants 2008

More

Vote Sponsored By

My Summary

Recently viewed

Recommended for you

La Esquina

106 Kenmare St
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (646) 613-7100
Citysearch
Price:
$$
Cross Street:
Lafayette Street and Cleveland Place
Directions:
6 at Spring St
Specialties:
People Watching
Hours:
Taqueria: 12pm-5am, Cafe: Mon-Fri: 12pm-12am, Sat-Sun 11am-12am

Editorial Review for La Esquina – by Kathleen Squires

The Scene
A sleekly restored diner car doubles as a taqueria and a front for one of the city's most stylish dining destinations. Behind the door marked "Employees Only," down the stairs and through the bowels of the kitchen, lies a gothic vault ornamented with wrought iron gates and dripping candelabras. Clusters of fashion and music types, outfitted in their best dungeon glam, augment the allure.

The Food
Thankfully the unique space doesn't outshine the food, influenced by consultant Richard Ampudia of nearby Cafe Habana. Every step pleases, from skillfully balanced seviches to authentically styled tacos and the generously flavored mains. If the kitchen keeps turning out winners like the soothing, tangy cold avocado and tomatillo soup, a plump, herb-infused whole red snapper, and spongy tortillas stuffed with meats like citrusy, slow-roasted pork, the crowds will persist long after the cachet wanes.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.

Insider Tips

The Extras

For a quick bite and more limited menu, try the attached Cafe Esquina, open for lunch and dinner. Even more pressed for time? Line up at the taqueria's take-out window.

What to Drink

Margarita-lovers can choose from 70 fine tequilas; or try the agua frescas, water and juice blends, for a nonalcoholic refresher.

Outdoor Seating

During warmer months, get there early to nab one of the sidewalk tables.

User Reviews for La Esquina

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

08/04/2008 Posted by sharopooks

This place is great for a special event meal, though you have to make reservations a couple weeks in advance. I was steeling myself for some heavy-duty pretentiousness from the staff after reading some of these negative reviews, but all the employees we encountered were polite & helpful. Really neat to emerge in that dimly-lit downstairs area! The steak was incredible, as were the salad, ceviche & chicken… we overheard some guys at the next table raving about their corn on the cob & small plates, but we had already ordered too much to check those out, so next time. If you want to avoid the “sceney-ness” that is talked about in some of these reviews, I recommend going early on a week night…that’s when we went & we had a great time devouring fantastic food!

Pros: FOOD (esp the ribeye!), cool room

Cons: Reservations need to be made a few weeks in advance, even for early weeknights

4 Star Rating: Recommended

08/03/2008 Posted by sunnynero

The food at this place is really amazing! I came here for dinner with a few friends and there is a bit of a wait on the weekends but its worth it! Also, its a little bit pricey and the menu is not very big.... but seriously all the food we have tried we absolutely loved!

Pros: great food, nice atmosphere

Cons: wait for a table, small space

Users Like You Also Viewed

Sakagura
211 E 43rd St
New York, NY 10017-4707

Related Searches

Editor's Review

Casual taqueria, chic cafe and subterranean brasserie at one muy hip, Mexican-themed corner.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

The Extras

For a quick bite and more limited menu, try the attached Cafe Esquina, open for lunch and dinner. Even more pressed for time? Line up at the taqueria's take-out window.

More Insider Tips

Restaurant Information

Parking

  • Street

Hours

  • Taqueria: 12pm-5am
  • Cafe: Mon-Fri: 12pm-12am
  • Sat-Sun 11am-12am

Dress Code

  • Casual

Payment Types

  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa

Cuisines

  • Mexican

Meal Price

  • $$

Amenities

  • Hidden Find
  • Open 7 Days
  • Late Night Dining
  • Bar Scene
  • Dine at the Bar
  • People Watching
  • Lunch Spot
  • Private Rooms
  • Date Spot
  • Group Dining
  • Carry Out
  • Local Favorites

Specialty ratings for La Esquina

Specialty Rating  
People Watching 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Vote

Site Links:

Citysearch is a registered trademark of Bluefoot Ventures Inc., and is used under license.
© 2008 Citysearch.com All rights reserved.

Partner Sites: