Jajaja Mexicana Introduce
For a city as diverse and dynamic as New York, it's no surprise that the culinary scene is constantly evolving to meet every kind of dietary preference. And when it comes to vegan dining, few places capture the city's vibrant spirit quite like Jajaja Mexicana. Located in the bustling Lower East Side, this restaurant is a game-changer for anyone—vegan or not—who appreciates delicious, innovative, and deeply satisfying food. Jajaja Mexicana isn't just a vegan restaurant; it's a destination that happens to be 100% plant-based, a fact that surprises and delights many who stumble upon it. The atmosphere is buzzing, the decor is stylish, and the food is so good that you'll quickly forget you're eating a meat-free meal. It's a place that proves vegan food can be every bit as flavorful, rich, and comforting as its traditional counterparts.
The concept behind Jajaja Mexicana is simple: take the bold, vibrant flavors of classic Mexican cuisine and recreate them using fresh, plant-based ingredients. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a lively and cozy atmosphere that immediately sets the mood. It’s a trendy spot that’s perfect for a night out with friends, a romantic dinner, or even a casual solo meal. The menu is a testament to the creativity and skill of its chefs, who have mastered the art of crafting dishes that mimic the texture and taste of meat, while celebrating the natural goodness of vegetables and grains. This approach has earned Jajaja a reputation for being a place where even die-hard carnivores can enjoy a meal without feeling like they’re missing out.
More than just a restaurant, Jajaja Mexicana feels like a complete experience. The music, the low-lit, intimate setting, and the friendly staff all come together to create a memorable evening. It’s a spot that’s perfect for "leaning" into the night, as one local put it, where you can grab a few drinks and some food before deciding where the rest of your evening will take you. Its appeal extends far beyond the vegan community, attracting a diverse crowd of college students, locals, and tourists who are all united by a desire for good food and great vibes. The restaurant is a true reflection of the city's cultural melting pot, offering a unique blend of authentic Mexican flavors and modern New York flair.
Jajaja Mexicana is located at 162 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002, in the heart of the Lower East Side. This prime location makes it easily accessible for anyone in Manhattan, and its proximity to major subway lines, including the F train, is a huge convenience. For those who prefer to drive, paid street parking is available, though it's worth noting that New York City parking can be challenging. The restaurant's storefront is inviting, and its spot on East Broadway places it within a dynamic and lively neighborhood filled with other great businesses and attractions. The location is an integral part of the Jajaja experience, as it allows for a pre- or post-dinner stroll through one of the city's most iconic and vibrant areas.
The restaurant also features lovely outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal on a warm day or evening. This option, along with its dog-friendly policy for outdoor diners, makes it an even more appealing choice for those who love to eat out with their furry companions. The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is also evident in its wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that it is welcoming to a wide range of guests. This thoughtful attention to location and accessibility makes Jajaja a go-to spot for many in the city, providing a seamless and enjoyable dining experience from start to finish.
- Outdoor seating is available, including a dog-friendly area.
- Curbside pickup and no-contact delivery options for convenience.
- Delivery and takeout services are provided.
- Dine-in is available, with reservations accepted.
- Offers a full bar with a curated cocktail program.
- Provides catering services for events.
- Features a kids' menu and high chairs for a family-friendly experience.
Jajaja Mexicana has built its reputation on more than just its food; its features and highlights truly set it apart. The restaurant is celebrated for its incredibly fast service, ensuring that even during peak hours, you won't be waiting long for your food. The cocktails are a major draw, with an extensive list of unique and well-crafted drinks, including a large selection of tequilas and mezcals, as well as creative spirit-free options. The desserts are equally praised, offering a sweet and satisfying end to the meal. Jajaja's menu is full of healthy options, organic dishes, and small plates, making it easy to create a meal that's both delicious and mindful.
One of the most impressive aspects is the food's ability to satisfy all palates. Dishes like the "Our Birria Tacos" and the "Barbacoa Burrito Bowl" feature vegan "meats" with a remarkably authentic texture and flavor, often fooling even the most discerning diners. The "Watermelon Tuna Tostadas" and "Beet y Pumpkin Empanadas" showcase the restaurant's creativity in using fresh, plant-based ingredients in unexpected ways. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of cozy and trendy, making it an ideal setting for a casual meal or a special celebration. With amenities like an on-site bar and a wheelchair-accessible restroom, Jajaja ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.
- Fast service is a key highlight, ensuring a quick and efficient dining experience.
- The cocktail program is extensive and highly-rated.
- Known for its great desserts, including Churritos and Coconut Leche Pie.
- Offers a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, and Kosher-friendly options.
- Features a cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for different occasions.
- Accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- The food is a fantastic example of a local specialty with a modern twist.
- Reservations are accepted, which is a great planning amenity.
For those ready to explore the delicious world of Jajaja Mexicana, you can find them at 162 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002. For reservations or general inquiries, you can call them at (646) 883-5453.
Choosing Jajaja Mexicana is a decision that guarantees a rewarding dining experience, whether you're a committed vegan, a curious omnivore, or simply looking for a new spot to try in the city. The primary reason to go is the food itself. It's a place that masterfully bridges the gap between traditional Mexican flavors and modern, plant-based cuisine. The high quality and innovation of dishes like the "Crispy Pescado" and "Our Chorizo" tacos are testaments to the chefs' dedication to crafting a menu that is both satisfying and surprising. The food is consistently praised for its flavor and authenticity, proving that a lack of meat doesn't mean a lack of taste.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a major draw. Jajaja Mexicana has successfully created a lively, comfortable, and trendy space that appeals to a diverse crowd. It's the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy a great cocktail, and have a conversation without feeling rushed. The combination of excellent service, a great vibe, and a stellar menu makes it a true standout. For New Yorkers seeking a memorable meal that feels fresh and exciting, Jajaja Mexicana is an excellent choice that offers a perfect blend of culinary creativity, a fantastic social scene, and a genuine love for flavorful, plant-based food.
Jajaja Mexicana Menu
Cervezas
- Modelo Especial $7.00
- Negra Modelo $7.00
- Montauk and Wave Chaser IPA $7.00
Wines
- Syrah, Monte Xanic, MX
- Sauvignon Blanc, Monte Xanic, MX
- Rose, Casale Delle Campore, IT
- Pomelado Orange, Dominio de Punctum, ES
- Cava Brut, Bodegas Ondarre, ES
Chips & Dips
- Grande Nachos $17.00
our chorizo, refried beans, habanero queso, salsa verde, sour cream, corn relish
- Hijiki-Hearts of Palm Ceviche $14.00
jalapeno, hijiki seaweed, cilantro, tomato avocado, served with plantain chips
- Tres Amigas $14.50
guacamole, queso, and pepita hummus served with corn chips
- Pepita Hummus $12.00
crushed pumpkin seeds, habanero, plum tomato, served with plantain chips
- Queso Fundido $14.50
melted coco queso, our chorizo, jalapeno, tomato, poblano, served with corn chips
- Guacamole $16.50
served with taro chips and veggie crudite
Starters
- Cucumber Gazpacho $10.00
tomatillo, fresh herbs, serrano, radish, basil oil
- Watermelon Tuna Tostadas $14.00
mini crispy tortillas, pineapple pico, nori, green apple, sesame seeds, cilantro aioli, salsa macha
- Tostaditas de Masa $12.00
mini sopes topped with refried beans, coco queso, red onion, lettuce, sour cream, salsa botanera, shiitake bacon
- Picante Tamal $12.00
corn masa, our pollo, gandules, tomato serrano sauce, sour cream, scallion
- Beet y Pumpkin Empanadas $14.00
kabocha squash, swiss chard, guacamole, chimichurri
Tacos
two of the same / add third taco +5 / add avo or guac +2
- Our Chorizo $14.50
radish, micro cilantro, pickled red pepper sour cream, red onion
- Crispy Pescado $14.50
hemp & flax battered chayote squash, chipotle almond butter, pickled red onion
- Pollo Coco $14.50
our pollo, coco queso, refried beans, sour cream, salsa verde
- Chipotle Sweet Potato $14.50
black beans, serrano, scallion, pickled red pepper
- Jackfruit Carnitas $14.50
hearts of palm, jackfruit, orange, salsa verde
- Buffalo Flower $14.50
tempura'd cauliflower, shredded carrot, celery, queso azul
- Our Birria Tacos $22.00
3 corn tortillas filled with Chunk Steak, coco queso, cilantro, onion, served with consome and lime
Bowls
add chorizo, carnitas, or sweet potato +5 | add pollo +7
- Barbacoa Burrito Bowl $20.00
Chunk Steak, fajita veggies, charred corn, pico de gallo, Spanish rice, black beans, tomato serrano sauce, avocado
- Turmeric Cauliflower Rice $16.50
Black beans, cilantro, scallion herb chermoula, grilled vegetables, sweet potato, and sour cream
- Dinosaur Kale $18.00
mango, avocado, red quinoa, smoked coconut shards, sweet potato, alfalfa sprouts, jalapeno chia-cilantro dressing
- Taco Tazon $18.50
chorizo, romaine, coco queso, avocado, cherry tomato, black bean salsa, sour cream, agave-lime dressing
- Vida Verde $18.00
arugula, sesame quinoa salad, chickpeas, broccoli, watermelon radish, cherry tomato, white balsamic
Specialties
- Quesabirria For Two $35.00
our steak, coco queso, cilantro, onion, avocado salsa, radish, pineapple caviar, served with consome and lime
- Enchiladas Suizas $17.00
carne con papa, roasted tomato, serrano, coco queso, served with Spanish rice
- Chorizo Burrito $16.00
Spanish rice, refried beans, guac, pico de gallo, smothered with salsa & sour cream
- Enchiladas Mole $17.00
our pollo, guajillo, cacao, sesame, coco queso, sour cream, served with Spanish rice
- Huevo Burrito $16.00
eggs, mushrooms, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, chipotle aioli
- Enchiladas Verde $16.50
green tomato, jalapeno, cilantro, jackfruit carnitas, coco queso, sour cream, Spanish rice
- Chimichanga de Birria $22.00
Chunk Steak, Spanish rice, black beans, coco queso, pico de gallo, lettuce, sour cream, served over consome
Sides
- Esquites $8.00
charred corn, almond parmesan, cayenne
- Spanish Rice $6.00
- Black Beans $6.00
- Half Avocado $4.00
- Habanero Queso $4.00
- Chips y Salsa $6.00
Desserts
- Watermelon Granita $12.00
shaved ice, fresh mint, lime zest, salt foam
- Churritos $10.00
served with coconut dulce de leche
- Raspberry Cheesecake $14.00
pecans, cashews, cacao, lemon, agave
- Coconut Leche Pie $14.00
cashews, almonds, coco meat, agave
- Chocolate Chip Cookies $5.00
- Mexican Wedding Cookies $5.00
Cocktails
Served Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m
- Mexican Aperol Spritz $15.00
pineapple, aperol, chile de arbol, mezcal, cava
- Michelada Criolla $10.00
cerveza, lime, worcestershire, salsa criolla
- Mezmosa $15.00
orange, elderflower, mezcal, cardamom
- La-Tanga $15.00
cherry, lime, Mexican Coke, mezcal, salt
- Carajillo $12.00
espresso and vanilla liqueur over ice
Comida
Served Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m
- Tostaditas con Huevo $12.00
mini sopes with eggs, refried beans, red onion, chipotle aioli, radish, shiitake bacon
- Birria Chilaquiles $18.00
corn chips, Chunk Steak, tomato serrano sauce, eggs,red onion, coco queso, sour cream, epazote
- Chilaquiles Verde $16.00
corn chips, salsa verde, eggs, red onion, coco queso, sour cream, epazote
- Elote Pancakes $15.00
fresh corn, jalapeno, maple butter
- Huevo y Chorizo $14.00
eggs, chorizo, black beans, chipotle aioli, serrano, onion, chermoula
- Papas Con Huevo $15.00
scrambled eggs, breaky potatoes, avocado, tortillas
- Huevo Burrito $16.00
eggs, mushrooms, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, and chipotle aioli
Kid's Menu
Comes with a choice of Agave Lemonade, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice, or Coconut Water+2 Mexican Coke, Jarritos, Topo Chico Sparkling, Almond Horchata
- Chico Tazon $10.00
bowl with Daring chicken, Spanish rice & black beans
- Chico Burrito $10.00
flour tortilla, Daring chicken, Spanish rice, black beans, coco queso
- Quesadillitas $10.00
coco queso quesadilla served with Spanish rice & black beans
- Ninos Nachos $10.00
our chorizo, refried beans, queso, salsa verde, sour cream
- Build-Your-Own Tacos $10.00
comes with a choice of protein, romaine, salsa, sour cream, queso, and corn tortillas protein options: sweet potato, carnitas, pollo, chorizo, or black beans
- Kids Brunch Plate $10.00
scrambled eggs, breaky potatoes, one elote pancake. available Saturday-Sunday 11am-4pm
Cocktails
- Sotol y Cucumber $17.00
sotol, green tea, cardamom, chile de arbol
- Mango y Tamarind $17.00
tequila blanco, lime, chile pasilla
- Sandia y Saffron $18.00
mezcal, gin, fresh watermelon, rose, lime
- Iced Cafe de Olla $16.00
run, espresso, cinnamon, vanilla, ginger
- Oaxacan Peach $17.00
mezcal, all spice, aveze, dry vermouth
- Pineapple y Mezcal $16.00
mezcal, cilantro, chile de arbol, lime
- Matcha y Coconut $17.00
tequila reposado, coco lopez, lemon
- Cilantro y Coconut $16.00
mezcal, fresh cilantro, coco lopez, lime
- Frozen Agave Margarita $16.00
Choice of classic, fresa y romero, or syrah swirl
- Prickly Pear Paloma $16.00
tequila reposado, grapefruit, aperol, lime, cactus tepache
Mezcal
- Mezcales Especiales Flight $27.00
mezcals distilled with additional ingredientsMal Bien Zacate Limon | Peloton Pechuga | Vago Elote
- Bozal Espadin $16.00
- Bozal Tobasiche $19.00
- Bruxo 1 Espadin Joven $16.00
- Bruxo 3 Barril $17.00
- Bruxo 4 Ensamble $18.00
- Clase Azul Durango $50.00
- Clase Azul Guerrero $60.00
- Del Maguey Chichicapa $22.00
- Del Maguey San Luis Del Rio $19.00
- El Buho Espadin Mango $32.00
- El Jogorio Madrecuixe $28.00
- El Jogorio Tobaziche $38.00
- Gem and Bolt $16.00
- Ilegal Mezcal Joven $19.00
- Ilegal Mezcal Anejo $21.00
- Lagrimas De Dolores Cenizo $16.00
- Leyenda Guerrero $18.00
- Leyenda Oaxaca $16.00
- Leyenda San Luis Potosi $16.00
- Leyenda Vinata Solar $16.00
- Los Siete Misterios Doba-Yej $16.00
- Mezcal Vago Espadin $16.00
- Mezcal Vago Mexicano $15.00
- Nuestra Soledad La Compania $24.00
- Nuestra Soledad Santiago $24.00
- Nuestra Soledad SLDR $16.00
- Peloton Pechuga $15.00
- Rey Campero Madre Cuishe $19.00
- Rey Campero Tepextate $19.00
- Rey Campero Tobala $24.00
- Rey Campero Wild Jabili $23.00
- Rosaluna $16.00
- Yuu Baal Joven $16.00
- Yola $16.00
- Mezcales Entrantes Flight $25.00
mezcals with varying levels of smokeBozal Espadin | Gem & Bolt | Rompe Corazon Reposado
Tequila
- Battle of the Blancos Flight $22.00
three of our favorite blanco tequilasChamucos Blanco | Don Fulano Blanco | Lalo Blanco
- Hiatus Trio Flight $22.00
a taste of Hiatus's full lineHiatus Blanco | Hiatus Reposado | Hiatus Anejo
- Angelisco Blanco $15.00
- Angelisco Reposado $17.00
- Casa Dragones Blanco $24.00
- Cazadores Reposado $18.00
- Cazadores Anejo $19.00
- Chamucos Blanco $17.00
- Chamucos Anejo $19.00
- Chamucos Reposado $18.00
- Clase Azul Plata $28.00
- Clase Azul Reposado $46.00
- Corralejo Blanco $15.00
- Corralejo Reposado $16.00
- Corralejo Anejo $17.00
- Don Fulano Blanco $18.00
- Don Fulano Reposado $19.00
- Don Fulano Anejo $20.00
- Don Fulano Extra Anejo $35.00
- El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Anejo $35.00
- Fortaleza Blanco $18.00
- Fortaleza Reposado $20.00
- Fortaleza Anejo $21.00
- Hiatus Blanco $15.00
- Hiatus Reposado $16.00
- Hiatus Anejo $17.00
- Siembre Valles Ancestral $22.00
- Tapatio Blanco $15.00
- Tapatio Reposado $17.00
- Tapatio Anejo $18.00
- Tapatio Excelencia Gran Anejo $40.00
- Tears of Llorona Extra Anejo $44.00
- Viva Xxxii Joven $15.00
- Viva Xxxii Reposado $16.00
Spirit-Free
- Green Tea y Cucumber $9.00
fresh juice, lemon, mint, soda
- Watermelon y Pasion $9.00
passion fruit, lime, agave
- Pina Picante $8.00
pineapple, fresh cilantro, muddled jalapeno
- Miche-nada $10.00
our Michelada Criolla made with non-alcoholic beer
- Grapefruit y Tepache $9.00
paloma-style mocktail topped with cactus tepache
- Matcha Verde $9.00
matcha, coco lopez, lemon
- Almond Horchata $6.00
add espresso or matcha $3
- De La Calle Tepache $6.00
choice of tamarind citrus, watermelon jalapeno, or cactus prickly pear
Wifi Names and Passwords
- East Village
Wifi Name: East VillagePassword: East Village
- Hudson Yards
Wifi Name: Hudson YardsPassword: Hudson Yards
Jajaja Mexicana Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Jajaja Mexicana Photos










Jajaja Mexicana Location
Jajaja Mexicana Reviews
mexican foodchurrosmezcalchile rellenotequilachorizo burritostreet cornpupusassweet potato tacosbuffalo cauliflower tacos
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Didn’t think vegan food can be this good! We didn’t know that this was a 100% plant-based restaurant. But we gave it a try anyway. And it didn’t disappoint! In fact we were quite satisfied. We ordered the watermelon starter, then kale bowl, burrito bowl, and coconut dessert, all of which were really good! For the price though we expected it to be a bit more. But it’s not a dealbreaker. We enjoyed every single bite of it. The burrito bowl, goodness, they had some vegan steak in it and it was so good I couldn’t tell if it wasn’t made with meat. The texture was so real! We were sitting in the corner and it was nice as we could see the whole place. Weather was nice so some people sat outside. Give it a try. Oh, and the music was a bit loud. But we like quiet places in general. So that’s that.
September 04 · He WiMenu has great variety of pod and drinks. We ordered the guac and taro chips as an app. I ordered the fish tacos and my friend got the burrito bowl. Tacos were so good I regretted getting just two! My friend finished her entire bowl lol Honestly had no idea the restaurant is vegan awe just picked a place to eat while walking around town. So glad we did!! Food was delicious and the ambience was on point!
April 20 · Miss CaryThe best vegan food I’ve had in a long, long time. This place packs so much flavor and care into every dish. Rather than allowing meat substitutes to carry the dishes, they have so many wonderful, delicious elements such as their salsas, coco queso, and pickled vegetables. Fast service and a lovely vibe inside. I took my non-vegan boyfriend here and he adored it as well!
August 27 · Isabelle AndersonJa ja ja Mexican was seriously next-level food. This is a vegan restaurant with such incredibly tasty food. Our server Mario was attentive, friendly and so nice.. it happened to be my birthday and they had out together a hand written birthday card which was just awesome. 10/10, highly recommend.. cannot wait to go back!
August 21 · MkaureneHaving someone in my household who’s lactose intolerant, it’s someone’s difficult to find food options. Jajaja was the perfect solution. The flavors and textures of everything were fantastic and impressive that they could achieve such complexity with only vegan ingredients. I’m not vegan, but enjoyed it very much!
May 13 · Christopher Brahim
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