Cilantro West

- 485 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024

In the vibrant and fast-paced environment of New York City, finding a spot that offers a true escape from the daily hustle is a welcome discovery. Cilantro West, a Mexican restaurant located on the Upper West Side, is just such a place. It’s been described by patrons as a "super chill spot" that offers a perfect opportunity to "kick back" and enjoy a meal in a lively yet comfortable setting. While its name suggests a singular focus on Mexican cuisine, the restaurant's menu and atmosphere reveal a broader, more inclusive dining experience. It’s a place that successfully marries the bold, authentic flavors of Mexico with the diverse tastes of a New York crowd, making it a go-to destination for a wide range of appetites and occasions. Whether you are craving classic Birria Tacos or something more unexpected like a Paella, Cilantro West delivers a satisfying and memorable meal. The layout and vibe of the restaurant are designed to be both trendy and cozy, providing a great backdrop for a meal with friends, a date night, or a relaxed moment of solo dining.

Beyond the food, Cilantro West has gained a reputation for its extensive beverage program. With a focus on "great cocktails," the bar is a lively and popular destination in its own right. The drink menu is as varied and exciting as the food, offering everything from classic margaritas and Mojitos to unique creations like the Midnight In Manhattan and the Bulldog Margarita. The extensive list of tequilas, beers, and wines ensures that every guest can find a drink to perfectly complement their meal. This commitment to both food and drinks, combined with a "friendly and attentive" staff, creates a welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back. Its status as a spot for tourists, groups, and solo diners alike is a testament to its versatility and broad appeal, making it a valuable addition to the Upper West Side's culinary scene.

Cilantro West is conveniently located at 485 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024. This prime address places it on a well-known avenue in the heart of the Upper West Side, a neighborhood celebrated for its historic architecture, leafy streets, and vibrant community. Its location on Columbus Avenue makes it easily accessible for anyone exploring nearby attractions like the American Museum of Natural History or Central Park, making it a perfect spot to refuel after a day of sightseeing. The restaurant is well-connected by public transportation, with several subway stations and bus routes serving the area, ensuring that guests can arrive from almost any part of the city with ease.

For those with their own vehicles, there are options for both paid street parking and a paid parking lot, a notable convenience in a dense urban environment. Cilantro West is also highly committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, which ensures that all guests can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. The option for outdoor seating is another highlight, providing a lovely way to enjoy a meal and soak in the lively atmosphere of the Upper West Side. The dog-friendly policy for the outdoor seating area also makes it a great stop for pet owners out for a walk.

Cilantro West provides a wide array of services that cater to a diverse clientele and their varying dining needs. The restaurant's operational model is designed for convenience, comfort, and a complete dining experience.

• Dine-in and Seating: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with table service. With a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, it is a great spot for both groups and solo diners. The availability of outdoor seating provides an additional option for enjoying a meal, particularly on a nice day.

• Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to eat at home or on the go, Cilantro West offers both takeout and delivery services. This ensures that you can enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your own space.

• Full Bar and Happy Hour: A key feature of the restaurant is its onsite bar, which offers a full selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, and hard liquor. The happy hour, which includes special pricing on margaritas, sangrias, and beers, is a major draw for those looking to unwind after work.

• Accepts Reservations: For a planned outing, the restaurant accepts reservations, which is particularly useful for large groups or during peak dining hours, ensuring a table is ready upon arrival.

• Family-Friendly: Cilantro West is a welcoming spot for children, with a dedicated kids' menu and high chairs available, making it a great option for family meals.

• Comprehensive Dining Hours: The restaurant offers a wide range of dining options, including Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. This flexibility ensures that it is a great choice at almost any time of day.

Cilantro West is known for several key features that set it apart and contribute to its strong reputation on the Upper West Side. These highlights are a combination of its culinary offerings, atmosphere, and customer-focused services.

• Authentic Mexican and American Fusion Menu: While the restaurant is primarily known for its Mexican food, the menu offers a surprising variety of dishes. Alongside authentic Mexican staples like Birria Tacos, Molcajete Guacamole, and various enchiladas, you can also find American comfort food like French Onion Soup, a Cheeseburger, and Fried Calamari. This fusion makes it a great choice for groups with diverse tastes.

• Great Cocktails and Lively Bar Scene: The bar is a major highlight, with a wide selection of expertly made cocktails. Patrons can enjoy everything from classic Tequila Sunrise to specialty drinks like the Mezcal Negroni, all offered at a "decent price" during happy hour.

• Cozy Atmosphere with a Fireplace: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy. A unique and comforting feature is the presence of a fireplace, which adds to the warm and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner on a cool New York evening.

• Fast and Attentive Service: The staff is consistently praised for being "very helpful and attentive," and the food is noted for being served "quickly." This combination of fast service and a friendly staff is a major plus for New Yorkers on the go.

• Accommodating for All: With offerings including vegan and vegetarian options, late-night food, and a kids' menu, the restaurant is designed to accommodate a wide variety of dietary needs and preferences. The accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible restrooms, further underscore this commitment to inclusivity.

For more information, to place a takeout order, or to make a reservation, you can contact Cilantro West using the following details.

Address: 485 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024

Phone: (212) 712-9090 or +1 212-712-9090

When you choose Cilantro West, you are choosing a versatile and high-quality dining experience. What is most worth choosing here is the combination of authentic Mexican flavors and a cozy, modern atmosphere. The menu's variety is a major selling point. For those who love Mexican food, the Birria Tacos are a fantastic choice, as they are a specialty not found on every menu. The Molcajete Guacamole is also a highly recommended option, praised for being "mad refreshing" and a perfect start to the meal. For those looking for a heartier meal, the Grilled Chimichurri Skirt Steak is a popular and delicious choice.

Beyond the food, the cocktails are a highlight that should not be missed. The "lively" and "refreshing" drinks, especially the specialty margaritas and happy hour deals, make this a great destination for a night out. The fact that the food is served "quickly" without sacrificing quality is a crucial benefit for New Yorkers who value their time. The ambiance, with its cozy fireplace and trendy vibe, makes it a comfortable and enjoyable place to linger. Ultimately, Cilantro West is worth choosing because it provides a complete and satisfying experience: delicious food, great drinks, fast and friendly service, and a welcoming environment that feels like a perfect escape in the middle of the city's hustle.

Cilantro West

485 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA