Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar

- 2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026

Located in the heart of Harlem, Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar offers a dynamic and engaging dining experience that goes beyond your average Mexican restaurant. It's a place designed for a lively and social evening, perfect for a group dinner or a casual night out with friends. The restaurant’s atmosphere is described as spirited and fun, with a distinct energy that contributes to the overall experience. Cantina specializes in a range of Mexican and Latin-inspired dishes, from classic tacos to more unique offerings like a flavorful seafood paella. The tequila bar component adds another layer of excitement, making it a true destination for food and drinks.

The menu at Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar is a highlight, with some customers raving about the generous portions of dishes like the appetizers, which could "feed a small army." The seafood paella is a particular standout, celebrated for its rich flavor and abundance of ingredients like shrimp, mussels, and calamari, served piping hot. The restaurant also offers an impressive array of tacos, from traditional options like tacos al pastor to more inventive ones like oxtail birria and truffle tacos. The beverage menu is equally extensive, with a wide selection of tequilas, margaritas, and other cocktails, including a happy hour with specials on drinks and food. The restaurant aims to be a place where guests can come "hungry" and leave satisfied, enjoying great food and a vibrant ambiance.

Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar is situated at 2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd, placing it in a prime location within the bustling neighborhood of Harlem. This major thoroughfare is easily accessible for both locals and visitors, with numerous public transportation options nearby. The restaurant is a short walk from several subway stations and bus stops, making it a convenient destination for anyone traveling from different parts of the city. The location is an integral part of the vibrant Harlem nightlife and dining scene, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the area.

While some reviews mention an atmosphere that can be "earsplittingly loud," this is a subjective experience that may vary depending on the time and day. However, the lively nature of the restaurant is part of its character, often described as "lively without being too loud." For those who prefer a more high-energy dining experience, the atmosphere can be a major draw. The restaurant’s location and popular appeal suggest it can get quite busy, and some customers have noted this can impact service. It's recommended to plan ahead, especially for groups, by taking advantage of the reservation service. The accessibility and central location on Frederick Douglass Blvd make it a popular and easy-to-find spot for a group dinner or a night out.

Services Offered

• Dine-In Service: Provides a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for on-site dining.
• Takeout and Delivery: Offers convenient options for customers who prefer to enjoy their food at home.
• Full Bar: Features a comprehensive selection of tequilas, margaritas, and other cocktails.
• Happy Hour: Provides specials on drinks and food, typically on weekdays, making it a great spot for after-work gatherings.
• Catering and Private Events: Can host events and offers catering services, as indicated on their website.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, which is highly recommended for groups or during peak hours.

Features / Highlights

• Lively Atmosphere: The restaurant is known for its energetic and fun ambiance, making it ideal for groups and social outings.
• Generous Portions: Customers praise the large portion sizes, particularly for appetizers and certain main courses like the seafood paella.
• Unique Menu Items: The menu goes beyond standard Mexican fare with standout dishes like oxtail birria tacos and a well-regarded seafood paella.
• Attentive and Friendly Staff: Many customers have had positive experiences with the staff, describing them as "super attentive and friendly."
• Comprehensive Drink Menu: The bar's extensive tequila and cocktail list is a key feature, complementing the food menu perfectly.
• Happy Hour Specials: The daily happy hour is a major draw, offering discounted prices on popular drinks and certain food items.

Contact Information

Address: 2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026

Phone: (646) 928-0133

What is worth choosing

Navigating the dining scene in New York City can be tricky, and Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar offers a distinct experience that, despite some conflicting reviews, has a lot to offer. While one review points to a negative experience with service and perceived high prices for certain items, it's clear that the restaurant’s strengths lie in its vibrant atmosphere, generous portions of certain dishes, and high-quality ingredients, particularly in its seafood options. The seafood paella, in particular, seems to be a star dish that lives up to its price point by being "flavorful" and "packed with shrimp, mussels, and calamari." The overall liveliness of the space is a major draw for those looking for a high-energy environment for a night out.

The experience at Cantina is not just about the food; it's about the entire social event. For a group looking to celebrate or simply enjoy a night out, the atmosphere is a perfect match. The positive reviews highlighting the "super attentive and friendly" staff and the "lively without being too loud" ambiance show that a great experience is more than possible. The restaurant also offers a wide array of options, from a variety of tacos and burritos to large plates and special seafood dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone in a group. Furthermore, the tequila bar aspect and happy hour specials make it a compelling choice for an evening of drinks and fun.

For New Yorkers who want a spot for a fun, casual group dinner or a lively evening out, Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar is a strong contender. Its generous portions, particularly on its appetizers and larger plates, can make for a great shared dining experience. While individual experiences with service or price points may vary, the overall concept of a lively, fun, and flavorful restaurant makes it a worthwhile choice for those who are "coming hungry" and looking to have a good time with friends.

Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar

2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026, USA