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 Look Hot, Feel Good 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
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

1 Star Rating: Not Recommended

02/12/2008 Posted by aim2008

What a waste of time. I arrived at 6:15pm for a 6:30pm reservation, I checked in with the girl at the door and was waiting for my boyfriend to meet me upstairs in the trailer part before heading down to the restaurant. When he arrived at 6:35 we headed downstairs through the kitchen only to find out that our table had been given away. Whatever happened to a 10 minute grace period? The staff was so pretentious and offered no resolution to the problem except to say we shouldn't of been late. Is it really worth going through all this for so so Mexican food. Walking through the kitchen is gross and the mats are filthy also.

Cons: poor service

1 Star Rating: Not Recommended

01/31/2008 Posted by SinclairT

I agree very much with some of the previous reviews. The food is not good in any way and there is so much attitude from the staff , it is just laughable. If you want to feel like a 15 year old , trying to be really really hip, this is the place for you. You must enter thru a "private" door , and walk thru the kitchen to get to the underground dining room. I don't know about you , but having a stream of people walking by my food as it is being prepared , doesn't whet my appetite. In addition , as I entered the dining room, it really had an odd and bad smell. You got used to it, but really , do you want to have to get used to some bad smell in a place where you are paying to have dinner? The restaurant just felt dirty. Needless to say , I won't be returning , or recommending it .

Pros: Can't think of one

Cons: Smelly , contrived, average food, attitude

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
  • Visa
  • MasterCard

Cuisines

  • Mexican

Meal Price

  • $$

Amenities

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

Site Links:

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

Partner Sites: