La Esquina
(646) 613-7100
106 Kenmare St
New York,
NY
10012
40.7214
-73.9972
Neighborhoods: NoLita, Downtown
Hours:
Taqueria: 12pm-5am
Cafe: Mon-Fri: 12pm-12am
Sat-Sun 11am-12am
Price:
$$
What People Are Saying About La Esquina
The Editor
Kathleen Squires
Citysearch
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. 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.
User Reviews
BigBobbyNJ
June 02, 2009
I have eaten at the smaller café on the side, the taco stand and the downstairs of this place and all 3 are excellent. I am a huge fan of Mexican food and I love the food here. The only problem is that if you want to eat in the downstairs dining room you have to get reservations (which are not easy) then you have to greet a bouncer inside the taco stand (the one I was greeted by was a very unfriendly bulldike) then you have to wind your way through the kitchen and coat check. Its one of those places in NYC that just loves to be “hush hush” and make anyone going there feel like they are in on some cool secret… but you may see some famous people once you get down there. The service is not super friendly and they really try to get your order taken immediately an get you the hell out of there for the next uber cool people that know of this “underground” location (pun intended). Overall the food is worth it, and if you don’t want to be that cool, just go around the corner to their more casual dining room where the service is a little more friendly and the food is just as good.
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mrfreeze100
January 13, 2009
Is this a bar with tables or is it a restaurant? Based on what happened to me during a recent visit it is definitely the latter. If you have ever had a doorman bouncer come to your table 10 minutes after the food arrives to say they are closing you know what I mean. He stood over our table rushing us to finish. When bringing this to the manager's attention on the way out, he was unsympathetic. There are more friendly late-night places in NYC that deserve the business.
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aubs111
January 07, 2009
I am New Yorker who likes food, good atmosphere, and is not into pretentious scenes. I made a reservation a couple of weeks ago (at 630, but that was not a huge deal) and went last night. After reading the reviews, I was afraid it was going to be pretentious and dissapointing, but I had a positive experience. It was a cool space, no hassles, service was good, and food was good also. So...I guess it's worth it if you're willing to take an early reservation on a weeknight!
read full reviewThe Details on La Esquina
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.
Know Before You Go:
Having trouble scoring a reservation in the coveted downstairs area? The bar down there is first come, first serve so show up, hopeful.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Late Night Dining, Private Rooms, Hidden Find, People Watching, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar, Bar Scene
