La Esquina
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (646) 613-7100
- 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.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasFor 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 DrinkMargarita-lovers can choose from 70 fine tequilas; or try the agua frescas, water and juice blends, for a nonalcoholic refresher.
Outdoor SeatingDuring warmer months, get there early to nab one of the sidewalk tables.
User Reviews for La Esquina
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
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
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