Gordo's Cantina: Authentic and Elevated Mexican Cuisine in Brooklyn

Gordo's Cantina Introduce

In the vibrant and artistic Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, Gordo's Cantina stands as a testament to authentic and "elevated" Mexican cuisine. This is not your average taco joint; it's a destination that has earned recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand rating, a distinction awarded for good quality and value. The restaurant’s name, Cantina, is a nod to its lively, bar-like atmosphere, where friends and family can gather to enjoy great food and drinks in a setting that is casual, cozy, and trendy. A particularly compelling feature that adds to its unique identity is that Gordo's Cantina is a women-owned business, helmed by a chef from Mexico City who brings a deep, personal connection to the flavors and traditions of her homeland. This foundation of authenticity is evident in every dish, from the rich and savory sauces to the carefully crafted tacos and main courses. It's a place that has captured the attention of locals and tourists alike, with one patron describing the flavors as "unreal" and the experience as "elevated Mexican."

Gordo's Cantina is celebrated for more than just its accolades and ambiance. Customers have consistently praised the "upbeat and kind" staff, highlighting a dining experience that feels both welcoming and efficient. The portions are noted for being "filling," a welcome surprise for food of this high caliber. The menu is a journey through traditional and creative Mexican culinary arts, offering a wide array of options for every craving and dietary need. Whether you're in the mood for classic tacos, a hearty main dish, or a flavorful vegetarian option, there is something to satisfy everyone. The restaurant’s reputation as a go-to spot for lunch, dinner, and even brunch is a testament to its versatility and consistently high quality. It's a place where you can feel comfortable dining solo, celebrating with a group, or enjoying a family meal, with its family-friendly atmosphere and high chairs available for children.

Gordo's Cantina is conveniently located at 140 St Nicholas Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA. This address places it firmly in the heart of Bushwick, a neighborhood renowned for its street art, independent businesses, and lively social scene. For New Yorkers, the restaurant's location is highly accessible via public transportation, making it a stress-free destination. It is within walking distance of the L train at DeKalb Avenue and the M train at Knickerbocker Avenue, both of which are key subway lines serving Brooklyn and Manhattan. For those with mobility needs, the restaurant is committed to inclusivity, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and seating. Its presence on a main thoroughfare like St Nicholas Avenue makes it a prominent and easy-to-find spot, whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the vibrant borough. The combination of its central location and commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the authentic flavors and warm hospitality of Gordo's Cantina.

Gordo's Cantina provides a comprehensive range of service options to cater to all dining preferences, ensuring that customers can enjoy their delicious food and lively atmosphere in the way that best suits them.

Dine-in: Customers can enjoy the full experience in the restaurant's casual, cozy, and trendy setting, with table service and a bar onsite.
Outdoor Seating: For those who prefer to dine in the open air, Gordo's offers comfortable outdoor seating, perfect for a sunny day or a warm evening.
Delivery: The full menu is available for delivery, allowing patrons to savor the restaurant's authentic flavors from the comfort of their own home.
Takeout: For a convenient and quick meal, the restaurant offers a takeout service.
Catering: The menu’s "Plato Fuerte" and "Tacos Mixtos" are just a few examples of dishes that make this a great choice for catering events and parties.

Gordo's Cantina is defined by a number of key features that set it apart in a competitive culinary landscape.

Michelin Bib Gourmand Recognition: This prestigious award highlights the restaurant's commitment to delivering high-quality, delicious food at a great value, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
Authentic and "Elevated" Cuisine: With a Mexico City-born chef at the helm, the restaurant offers traditional dishes with a sophisticated touch, praised by customers for their "unreal" flavors and authenticity.
Comprehensive and Inclusive Offerings: The menu includes a wide variety of options, from comfort food and small plates to healthy and vegetarian dishes like the "El Vegano" tacos and "Enchiladas Vegetarianas," ensuring everyone has something to enjoy.
Lively "Cantina" Atmosphere: The presence of a full bar with cocktails like Margaritas and Mezcalritas, along with happy hour specials, creates a festive and inviting environment that is perfect for groups and a wide range of crowds, including LGBTQ+ friendly and family-friendly diners.
High-Quality Ingredients: The restaurant uses fresh ingredients, and this is evident in customer reviews that praise the flavors of dishes like the "arrachera asada quesadilla" and the fresh "Guacamole De La Abuela."
Fast and Friendly Service: Noted for its "fast service" and kind staff, the restaurant ensures that even during busy times, the dining experience is a pleasant one.

Gordo's Cantina provides an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond the typical. It is a restaurant that is worth choosing for its rare combination of authentic Mexican flavors, generous portions, and a celebrated "elevated" approach to cuisine, all validated by its Michelin Bib Gourmand status. In a city where finding both high quality and great value can be a challenge, Gordo's stands out as a reliable and rewarding choice. The expertise of the chef, combined with a menu that is both traditional and innovative, ensures that every dish is a culinary delight. From the rich taste of the "Pollo Taco" to the complex flavors of the "Arrachera Quesadilla," the food here is a clear expression of a passion for Mexican cooking. Furthermore, the restaurant's warm and inclusive atmosphere, with its vibrant energy and friendly staff, makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal. Whether you're a local in search of your new favorite spot or a visitor looking for an authentic and memorable New York dining experience, Gordo's Cantina offers the perfect blend of top-tier food, a welcoming ambiance, and a great value that makes every visit a special occasion.

Gordo's Cantina Menu

Antojos
Salsas $10.00
Verde tomatillo, roasted tomato, chile de arbol, habanero. housemade tortilla chips.
Guacamole De La Abuela $18.00
Abuela’s secret recipe and housemade tortilla chips.
Esquites $10.00
grilled corn off the cob, mayo, chili, lime, cotija cheese
El Chapo $10.00
bacon wrapped hot dog, cream, pico de gallo
Flautas Ahogadas $15.00
Three rolled and fried tacos stuffed with queso fresco. Served in salsa verde topped with crema and shredded cheese.
Guacamole Trio $20.00
Original, habanero pineapple, chipotle con chicharron, and housemade tortilla chips.

Salad and Soup
Tijuana Caesar Salad $17.00
Baby kale in housemade Caesar dressing topped with guajillo crispy tortillas
Ensalada De Aguacate $17.00
Romaine lettuce, fresh cherry tomatoes, roasted corn, toasted almonds, olive oil, lime dressing.
Sopa De Pollo $15.00
Chicken, fennel, zucchini, carrots, and corn kernels.
Sopa De Tortilla $15.00
Tomato based stock, avocado, queso fresco, and tortilla strips.
Sopa Tarasca $15.00
black bean and tomato puree with queso fresco and avocado
Sopa De Taco $15.00
caldo de pollo, onion, cilantro, avocado, and two queso flautas

Tacos
Pollo Taco $16.00
Four taqueria size Guajillo marinated chicken tacos with pico de gallo. Comes with small side of salsa.
Arrachera Tacos $18.00
Four taqueria size tacos with diced flank steak. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small salsa on the side.
Carnitas Tacos $16.00
Four taqueria size slow braised pork butt tacos. Served with cilantro and onion, small salsa on the side.
Rajas Con Queso Taco $15.00
Four taqueria size tacos with poblano, corn, crema, and cotija cheese. Served with cilantro and onion and a small salsa on the side.
Chorizo Taco $17.00
Four taqueria style spicy pork sausage tacos. Topped with Cilantro and Onion, small salsa on the side.
Cochinita Pibil Tacos $16.00
Pork butt marinated in orange, achiote, and guajillo. Braised in a banana leaf, topped with red onions. (Comes in "Make Your Own Taco" format with 4 taqueria style tortillas on the side)
Taco Gobernador $20.00
Two large black tiger shrimp tacos with queso chihuahua and pico de gallo.
Pulpo A Las Brasas Taco $24.00
Two large grilled octopus tacos with pico de gallo
Tacos Mixtos $18.00
Choose up to 4 different taco filling from steak, chorizo, carnitas, and chicken

Tacos Especiales
Cecina Enchilada Special Taco $23.00
Three pork butt tacos with sauteed jalapeno, caramelized onion, and queso fresco.
Pulpo A Las Brasas Special Taco $25.00
two large grilled octopus tacos with pico de Gallo.
Taco Gobernador Special Taco $21.00
Two large tiger shrimp tacos with melted chihuahua cheese and pico de Gallo
Tacos De Pollo Sarandeado $24.00
three chipotle and guajillo crema marinated chicken tacos with pickled habanero and onions
El Vegano *Vegan Crispy Kale Tacos* $19.00
three crispy kale tacos with corn and avocado
Pork Pasilla Tacos $24.00
four taqueria style pork butt tacos with Oaxaca cheese, served with a side of crema
Cerveza Cod Tacos $26.00
four beer battered cod tacos with slaw and a serrano avocado salsa

Quesadillas
Arrachera Quesadilla $20.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with diced flank steak. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.
Rajas Con Queso Quesadilla $19.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with cheese, roasted poblano, and corn. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.
Carnitas Quesadilla $19.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with cheese and slow braised pork butt. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.
Pollo Quesadilla $19.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with cheese and shredded chicken. Topped with pico de Gallo, served with a small side of salsa.
Chorizo Quesadilla $19.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with cheese and spicy sausage. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.

Burritas
Pollo Burritas $19.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with refried bean spread, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, and marinated chicken
Arrachera Burritas $20.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with refried bean spread, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, and diced flank steak
Carnitas Burrita $19.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with refried bean spread, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, and slow braised pork butt.
Rajas Con Queso Burritas $19.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with refried bean spread, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, roasted poblano pepper, and corn kernels.
Chorizo Burritas $20.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with refried bean spread, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, and spicy pork sausage
El Presidente Shrimp Burritas $22.00
Tiger Shrimp with melted cheese, refried black bean spread, and pico de gallo.

Brunch Specials
Chilaquiles Verdes Plato $16.00
Tortilla chips, epazote salsa verde, crema, and chihuahua cheese. Add steak, chicken, or egg for an additional charge.
Chilaquiles Rojos De Cazuela $16.00
Tortilla chips drenched in Guajillo, chile de arbol salsa, and crema.
Chilaquiles Mole $18.00
Tortilla chips, mole oaxaqueno, crema and queso fresco. Add steak, chicken or egg for an additional charge.
Enchiladas Suizas $25.00
Traditional enchiladas verdes stuffed with shredded chicken, topped with crema, avocado, melted cheese.
Weekend Breakfast Burritas $15.00
Two rolled flour tortillas with beans and cheese, select one filling
Enfrijoladas Veracruzanas $19.00
Tortillas stuffed with scrambled eggs topped with black bean puree, chorizo, and crema

Tortas
Torta De Milanesa De Pollo Torta $19.00
Breaded chicken breast, bean spread, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and pickled jalapeno.
Torta Del Gordo Torta $19.00
4-hour baked pork shank, dried Chile braised in butter, bean spread, avocado, tomato, pickled jalapeno, and Oaxaca cheese.
Carnitas Torta $19.00
Slow braised pork butt, salsa verde, black bean spread, crema
Chorizo Torta $19.00
chorizo, pickled habanero, onion, grilled pinneapple, black bean spread

Eggs
Huevos Con Chorizo $16.00
Scrambled eggs with chorizo. Comes with a side of beans, avocado slices, and homemade tortillas.
Huevos Con Pasilla $16.00
Scrambled eggs drenched in salsa pasilla. Served with housemade black bean puree.
Huevos Rancheros Divorciados $16.00
2 sunny side up eggs served over corn tortillas and drenched in pasilla salsa and green salsa.
Huevos Ahogados $17.00
Poached eggs in puja chile and tomato salsa served over a baked corn tortilla.
Huevos A La Mexicana $16.00
Scrambled eggs with tomato, onions, and jalapeno. Comes with a side of beans, avocado slices, and homemade tortillas.

Plato Fuerte (Mains)
Chile Relleno $25.00
poblano pepper stuffed with queso fresco served on salsa de tomato and topped with crema and avocado. Comes with rice and beans.
Enchiladas Suizas $25.00
salsa verde, shredded chicken, and queso chihuahua. comes with rice and beans.
Enchiladas Vegetarianas $25.00
Cremini mushrooms, leeks, fennel, and tomatillo salsa. Comes with rice and beans.
Enchiladas De Mole Negro Oaxaqueno $27.00
shredded chicken, lettuce, and crema. comes with rice and beans. **Contains nuts.
Birria $26.00
Beef birria served in two corn quesadillas, 4 taquitos, or as a plate with tortillas on the side and toppings on the side.
Tacos Alambre $25.00
Diced flank steak with poblano peppers, onions, and melted chihuahua cheese. Served with a side of corn tortillas. Comes with Rice and Beans.

Platos Breakfast and Lunch
Breakfast Burritas $15.00
Two rolled flower tortillas with beans and cheese. Choose one option of filling.
Enchiladas Suizas Plato $25.00
Traditional enchiladas Verde's, shredded chicken and melted cheese blend. **Comes with a side of ride and beans
Chilaquiles Verdes $16.00
Tortilla chips, creamy salsa Verde, crema and chihuahua cheese, onions, cilantro. Add Steak, chicken or egg for an additional charge.
Huevos A La Mexicana $16.00
Scrambled eggs, pico de gallo and housemade black bean puree.
Huevos Con Chorizo $16.00
Scrambled eggs, chorizo, refried beans and avocado slices.
Chilaquiles Mole Plato $16.00
Tortilla chips, mole oaxaqueno, crema and queso fresco. Add steak, chicken or egg for an additional charge.

Sides & Extras
Rice $5.00
Side Rice And Beans $5.00
mexican rice and refried black beans with queso chihuahua
Side Guacamole - 2 Oz $2.00
Large Side Crema $3.00
Side Crema $1.00
Side Beans $5.00
refried black beans and chihuahua cheese
Extra Tortilla $3.00
Extra Salsa $1.00
choice of tomatillo verde, habanero, chili de arbol, and roasted tomate. please make selection of one in notes!
Bacon $3.00
Pico De Gallo $1.00
Side Steak $10.00
Extra Chips $4.00
housemade tortilla chips

Drinks & Dessert
Mexican Imported Soda $4.50
Glass bottle sodas.
Agua Fresca $5.00
sparkling water, agave syrup, lime. can be made with any listed flavors.
Horchata $7.00
Horchata with almond milk and cinnamon. *contains nuts*
Crema Filled Churros $12.00
two churros filled with crema. cajeta sauce and mexican chocolate sauce on the side.

Vegetarian Dishes
Salsas $10.00
Verde tomatillo, roasted tomato, chili de arbol, habanero salsas with housemade tortilla chips.
Rajas Con Queso Quesadilla $19.00
Two open faced corn tortillas with cheese, roasted poblano, onion, and corn. Topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.
Enchiladas Vegetarianas $25.00
cremini mushrooms, leeks, fennel and tomatillo salsa. comes with a side of rice and beans. can be made vegan upon request.
Rajas Con Queso Tacos $17.00
four tacos with poblano, onion, and roasted corn tossed in crema and cotija. topped with cilantro and onion, served with a small side of salsa.
Rajas Con Queso Burritas $19.00
two rolled flour tortillas with refried black beans, queso chihuahua, pico de Gallo , roasted poblano, onion, and corn.
Ensalada De Aguacate $17.00
romaine, cherry tomatoes, roasted corn, toasted almonds, lime vinaigrette.
Chilaquiles Verdes $16.00
tortilla chips, salsa verde, crema, and queso chihuahua. add steak, chicken or egg for an additional charge.
Chile Relleno $25.00
poblano pepper stuffed with queso fresco served on salsa de tomate and topped with crema and avocado. comes with rice and beans.
Chilaquiles Mole $17.00
tortilla chips, mole oaxaqueno, crema, and queso fresco. add steak, chicken or egg for an additional charge.
Chilaquiles Rojos De Cazuela $16.00
tortilla chips drenched in guajillo, chile de arbol salsa, and crema.
Tijuana Cesar Salad $17.00
baby kale in a housemade Caesar dressing topped with crispy tortillas strips and grilled jalapeños.
Ensalada De La Casa $17.00
spring lettuce, carrots, apple, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds.

Beer and Wine
Tecate $5.00
Must be 21+ to order. Must be purchased with a food item.
Michelada $11.00
House made mix (made with clamato) with Victoria. Must be 21+ over. Must be purchased with a food item.
Bohemia $8.00
Must be 21+ to order. Must be purchased with a food item.
Victoria $8.00
Must be 21+ to order. Must be purchased with a food item.
Negra Modelo $8.00
Must be 21+ to order. Must be purchased with a food item.
Pacifico $7.00
Must be 21+ to order. Must be purchased with a food item.

Cocktails
Margarita $13.00
12 oz. Made with tequila, agave, lime. Must be purchased with a food item.
Mezcalrita $16.00
12 0z. Made with Ilegal Mezcal, lime, agave. Must be purchased with a food item.
Rumchata $13.00
Horchata made with Almond milk and Bacardi. Must be purchased with a food item.

**SPECIAL**Tamales
Tamal Chicharrón En Salsa Verde $7.00
Stewed crispy pork in tomatillo salsa. Topped with chicharron. Made with olive oil, no lard Max 3 available - for large pre-orders, visit gordoscantina.com.
Tamal Pollo Con Mole Oaxaqueno $7.00
Shredded chicken with homemade mole negro. Contains nuts. Made with olive oil, no lard. Max 3 available - for large pre-orders, visit gordoscantina.com.
Vegan $7.00
Carrot, zucchini, poblano, and corn. **Made with olive oil no lard** Max 3 available - for large pre-orders, visit gordoscantina.com.

Gordo's Cantina Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy hour drinks
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
High chairs

Gordo's Cantina Photos

Gordo's Cantina Location

Gordo's Cantina

New York Kings County Bushwick Saint Nicholas Avenue

140 St Nicholas Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA

Gordo's Cantina Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 642 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

My mom and I were visiting a family member at the nearby hospital and we wanted to get some lunch. She specifically wanted shrimp tacos and when we asked if they had them we were in luck because it was on their specials that day! We sat down around 2:30pm on a Saturday and we had a calm delicious lunch! I had the chicken tacos with some guacamole on the side. My portion was filling for me. The staff were upbeat and kind which we always love to see. I would definitely recommend a stop here!!
July 16 · Johan Naviel
The flavors in my arrachera asada quesadilla were unreal. This place is deserving of all of its positive reviews. Would personally characterize Gordo’s as “elevated Mexican”
July 26 · Edwin Kye
Sat at the bar was very hungry, food came out fast and the bar tender made an amazing cocktail with cold brew in it. Forgot to take a pic of the main dish. Will definitely be back
August 19 · Steven Ramirez
Great Atmosphere! Cute spot with lots of windows, small but has good seating. Hostess/Waitress very friendly and responsive. Drinks were soooo good! We got the Mezcalitas (Margaritas but with Mezcal) in hibiscus and mango. Both flavors were excellent. Tacos are a good portion size, a little on the simple side. No sides - no sour cream. Ordered the steak, fried fish and grilled octopus tacos. Octopus was the best followed by the fish.
February 04 · N Ade
Fine! Food was warm and hearty, service was fast. Was not blown away by the flavours, location is pretty at sunset.
September 13 · Rus Trana