Populares Introduce
Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Populares has established itself as more than just a Mexican restaurant; it’s a lively gathering space where authentic flavors meet a vibrant and beautiful atmosphere. This is the kind of place New Yorkers seek out when they want a delicious meal that feels both special and comfortably familiar. Populares is a true neighborhood spot, offering a menu that masterfully balances classic Mexican dishes with creative, inspired culinary twists. The food here is a celebration of flavor, with each dish prepared with depth and authenticity. From the moment you walk in, the energy is infectious—it’s a place filled with warmth and good vibes, making it a perfect destination for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory get-together with friends and family. The staff is known for being kind, attentive, and passionate about what they do, contributing to an overall experience that is consistently praised by patrons. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy fantastic food and drinks, and feel like you’ve stumbled upon a cherished local secret. Populares truly embodies the spirit of a community hub, providing a taste of Mexico with a distinct New York flair that keeps people coming back again and again.
Populares is located in a prime spot in the East Village at 51 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009, USA. This central location makes it an easy and convenient destination for a wide range of New Yorkers. The East Village is well-known for its vibrant culture and accessibility, with multiple subway and bus lines serving the area, making it a simple journey from nearly anywhere in the city. For those who prefer to drive, a major plus is the availability of free street parking, a rare and highly valued amenity in this bustling part of Manhattan. The restaurant’s entrance is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the dining experience without issue. Populares offers a variety of service options to cater to a modern, fast-paced city lifestyle, including curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and traditional takeout. However, the true experience lies in the dine-in option, which allows you to soak in the beautiful atmosphere and enjoy the full menu. With open window seats in the summer, you can enjoy a drink and a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood. This thoughtful approach to location and accessibility makes Populares a go-to spot for both a planned night out and a spontaneous meal.
Populares offers a comprehensive range of services and dining options that cater to every part of your day and every craving you might have. Their menu is thoughtfully designed to provide great options without being overwhelming, ensuring a high-quality experience every time. The services offered include:
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full experience in their lively and beautiful dining room.
- Delivery and Takeout: Perfect for those nights when you want great food but prefer to eat at home. They also offer no-contact delivery and curbside pickup for added convenience and safety.
- Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: The restaurant is open for a variety of meals, from a fantastic weekend brunch to a delicious dinner.
- Bar Onsite: Populares features a full bar with an impressive list of signature cocktails, beers, and wines. This makes it an ideal spot for a date night or for a casual evening with friends.
- Accepts Reservations: Given its popularity, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, and the restaurant happily accepts reservations to ensure you get a table.
The qualities that make Populares a standout in New York City's crowded restaurant scene are a mix of its food, atmosphere, and ethos. These features create a complete and memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Some of the most notable highlights include:
- A Menu with Depth of Flavor: The food is consistently praised for its excellent quality and authenticity. Standout dishes like the Lobster Aguachile, Grilled Octopus with infused risotto, and the unique Duck Leg are a testament to the chef's creativity.
- Exceptional Cocktails and Beverages: The drink menu is as impressive as the food. The margaritas are particularly fantastic, and patrons are encouraged to ask the bartender for recommendations. They also offer a variety of beer, wine, and mocktails.
- Beautiful and Awesome Vibes: The atmosphere is a key feature, described by customers as both beautiful and awesome. It's a casual, yet sophisticated space that feels both trendy and welcoming.
- Diverse and Inclusive Crowd: Populares is known for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safespace. This commitment to inclusivity creates a genuinely welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone.
- Late-Night Food Options: For those looking for a late-night bite, the restaurant's menu offers comforting and flavorful options.
- Outdoor Seating: The restaurant provides outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink on a pleasant day.
To plan your visit or make a reservation at this fantastic East Village spot, here is the essential contact information. Populares is located at 51 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009, USA. For reservations or general inquiries, you can reach them by phone at (212) 777-3912. Given that they are a popular choice for both dinner and special occasions, it's highly recommended to call ahead, especially for larger groups. The restaurant also accepts a variety of modern payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy. With its central location and welcoming approach, Populares is an effortless destination for anyone in the city looking for an authentic and enjoyable meal.
What makes Populares truly worth choosing is the remarkable combination of high-quality food, a beautiful setting, and a genuinely welcoming spirit. As one reviewer noted, the food is "amazing" and everything is "so delicious," while another highlighted the "depth of flavor and authenticity." The menu, which features everything from traditional tacos and enchiladas to more creative plates like Lobster Aguachile and Grilled Octopus, caters to a wide range of tastes. The cocktails are a major draw, with fantastic margaritas and other signature drinks that are expertly crafted. The atmosphere is a significant part of the draw; it's a place where you can celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a fantastic meal in a cozy setting. The staff's kindness and professionalism are frequently mentioned in reviews, creating a dining experience that is not just about the food, but about the people and the passion behind it. The commitment to being a family-friendly and inclusive space makes it a safe and fun place for everyone. Populares is more than a place to eat; it’s a vibrant hub where New Yorkers can connect over incredible food and drinks. For anyone seeking an authentic, flavorful, and all-around fantastic Mexican dining experience in the East Village, Populares is a standout choice that consistently delivers on its promise of a great time.
Populares Food & drink
SECRET FOOD
- NACHOS GRANDE $18.00
- CHICKEN BURRITO $13.00
- BEEF BURRITO $15.00
- SHRIMP BURRITO $17.00
- BIRRIA BURRITO $16.00
- VEGGIE BURRITO $12.00
- QUESADILLA $11.00
- BEEF QUESADILLA $13.00
- VEGGIE QUESADILLA $12.00
- CHICKEN QUESADILLA $12.00
TAPAS
- CHIPS AND SALSA $10.00
- ESQUITES $11.00
- MUSHROOM FLAUTAS $14.00
- GUACAMOLE $14.00
- GAMBAS AL AJILLO $16.00
- ARUGULA SALAD $14.00
- LOBSTER AGUACHILE $20.00
- GRILLED OCTOPUS $19.00
- ESQUITES FONDUE $12.00
TACOS
- CAULIFLOWER TACO $18.00
- CHICKEN TACO $18.00
- BEEF AL PASTOR $18.00
- BAJA FISH $18.00
ENTRADAS
- MEZCAL CHICKEN $23.00
- CHILE RELLENO $22.00
- VEGAN CHILE RELLENO $18.00
- CHICKEN ENCHILADA $19.00
- STEAK ENCHILADA $23.00
- SHRIMP ENCHILADA $21.00
- CHICKEN FAJITA $19.00
- STEAK FAJITA $23.00
- SHRIMP FAJITA $21.00
- GRILLED SKIRT STEAK $28.00
- BIRRIA BOWL $22.00
- BRANZINO $27.00
- TRIO FAJITA $27.00
- POPULARES BURGER $21.00
- DUCK LEG $18.00
DESSERT
- CHURROS $9.00
- FLAN $9.00
- COCONUT RICE PUDDING $12.00
SIDES
- RICE & BEANS $6.00
- TORTILLAS $3.00
- GARLIC FRIES $6.00
- YUCA FRIES $8.00
- SHISHITO PEPPERS $8.00
- SIDE SALAD $8.00
- MUSHROOM AL TOMATILLO $8.00
- TORTILLA CHIPS $3.00
FAJITAS
- CHICKEN FAJITAS $15.00
- STEAK FAJITAS $15.00
- SHRIMP FAJITAS $15.00
- CAULIFLOWER FAJITAS $15.00
SIGNATURE COCKTAILS (Copy)
- AGUA FRESCA $18.00
- Amantes Negroni $20.00
- Avenida B $18.00
- Condesa Spritz $17.00
- Don Bartolo $18.00
- HORCHATITA $18.00
- La Mulita $18.00
- Loisaida $17.00
- Mala Mia Martini $20.00
- Mala Mia Spritz $18.00
- MARGARITAS
- Mariacuya $20.00
- Mezcarajillo $18.00
- Pina Caipirinha $16.00
- Populares Old Fashioned $20.00
- Tamarindo Reyes $18.00
- Villa Este $18.00
BEER BTL/CAN (Copy)
- BTL Corona $8.00
- BTL Modelo $8.00
- BTL Bohemia $8.00
- BTL Pacifico $8.00
- BTL Charro $9.00
- BTL Aval Cider $9.00
- BTL MONOPOLIO $8.00
- BTL Estrella Jalisco $8.00
- BTL Modelo NEGRA $8.00
- BTL Bud Light $8.00
- TECATE CAN $8.00
- VOCTORIA $9.00
- ATHLETIC CAN $8.00
DRAFT BEER (Copy)
- DFT Pacifico $8.00
- DFT Corona Premier $8.00
- DFT Negra Modelo $8.00
- DFT Voo Doo IPA $8.00
- DFT Samuel Adams $8.00
- DFT Blue Moon $8.00
- DFT MERMAID PILSNER $8.00
- DFT MONOPOLIO NEGRA $8.00
- DFT Stella $8.00
- DFT Models Especial $8.00
- DFT MONOPOLIO LAGER $8.00
- ATHELTIC $8.00
MOCKTAILS (Copy)
- N/A MARGARITA $12.00
- N/A MOJITO $12.00
- N/A CONDESA SPRITZ $12.00
- N/A TROPICAL SOUR $12.00
- N/A EL CANTARO $12.00
- N/A OPEN MOCKTAIL $12.00
Tacos (Copy)
- Baja Fish Taco(3) $18.00
- Beef Al Pastor Taco(3) $18.00
- Cauliflower Taco(3) $18.00
- Chicken Taco(3) $18.00
- Mushroom Truffle Taco(3) $18.00
Platos Fuertes (Copy)
- BIRRIA BOWL $22.00
- BRANZINO $27.00
- Chicken Enchiladas $19.00
- Chicken Fajitas $20.00
- Chile Relleno $22.00
Vegan picadio, rice, carrot, peas, and chipotle marinara
- DUCK LEG $18.00
- Grilled Skirt Steak $28.00
- HONGOS $19.00
- Mecal Chicken $26.00
- Shrimp Fajitas $22.00
- Steak Fajitas $25.00
- Trio Fajitas $27.00
- VEGAN Chile Relleno $22.00
Vegan picadio, rice, carrot, peas, and chipotle marinara
- BURGER $21.00
White (Copy)
- CHENIN BLANC SANTO TOMAS
- SAUVIGNON BLANC MONTE XANIC
- PINOT GRIGIO BTL $33.00
- PINOT G GLASS $14.00
Rosé (Copy)
- AIX EN PROVENCE
- GRENACHE MONTE XANIC BTL
Red (Copy)
- MISION TEMPRANILLO SANTO TOMAS
- SYRAH MONTE XANIC
- CAB
SIDES (Copy)
- RICE & BEANS $6.00
- TORTILLAS $3.00
- GARLIC FRIES $6.00
- YUCA FRIES $8.00
- SHISHITO PEPPERS $8.00
- SIDE SALAD $8.00
- MUSHROOM AL TOMATILLO $8.00
- TORTILLA CHIPS $3.00
Populares Details
Service options
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Late-night food
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
Amenities
- Bar onsite
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Parking
- Free street parking
- Parking
Populares Photos










Populares Location
Populares Reviews
brunchbartenderbirthdayfajitasmanagementthe menumargaritasadditiondjsmezcal
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1The food was amazing everything so delicious and everyone was so kind. Margaritas were fantastic too! Love this place will be coming back to frequent
August 20 · kristen alvarengaBeautiful atmosphere and awesome vibes. The menu is on point with great options but not overwhelming. The food was excellent and has depth of flavor and authenticity. We can not wait to go back. Do not forget to ask the bartender for drink recommendations.
March 15 · samer ghanemI’m writing as it’s fresh in my mind so I don’t forget the things that had me steaming mad. Where do I begin?After my fiancé had kindly tried to be friendly to the entire staff while waiting for me at the bar (partaking in the happy hour and tipping well), the minute we were seated to begin our Pulsd deal, the entire experience went South.Not only was there a bait and switch (you can get an entree up to $32 but not including the Branzino, Short rib, or the steak) but there was no level of customer service that would imply that you want returning customers.While our young server tried her best to deal with me being irate - she was ill equipped (by management) on how to handle the restaurant’s incompetence and their sub par service.I had - at conversation level - bemoaned having to find the QR code to show my pulsd voucher from the nearby manager (who most certainly heard me complaining). Only to be told after going through the motions that half the menu wasn’t covered under the voucher. I had to ask the server to bring the manager over to complain to her myself and the manager said that she put in a request “three weeks ago” for changes to be made to the details of the voucher. I struggle to understand how this is the customer’s problem. I included a photo of the pulsd deal to show that despite the not included steak being the main draw to buying the deal in the first place - the owner/manager/ whomever somehow had the right to say, yeah but that’s not part of the deal.I digress. I settled for shrimp and steak fajitas only to be given two soggy overcooked shrimp and several pieces of meat. I returned it with only a small amount of pushback from the manager asking me why I sent it back.We were eventually sent vegan flautas for “all our trouble” after I made it clear that I came there for steak.We weren’t offered out dessert or reminded that we didn’t get it and I also got three out of four tacos, but who’s counting.What a disastrous and disappointing way to end our evening. Do better.
December 06 · La Toya LewisThe staff was very accommodating even though the brunch menu time was over and my friend was running late. Gotta give it to them for sure on that. Any other place would have changed the menu to lunch or dinner. Staff was very polite too but also delayed on checking on us for refills along with taking a really long time to get us 2 drinks at a time. The atmosphere was super artsy! I loved that. The decor really beautiful. The space was clean and spacious. I think its perfect for a date, and chill spot for friends and family. The tres leche french toast was DELICIOUS and wish I wouldve gotten a bigger portion of it! The duck taco was okay. Despite the drinks being delicious, they were not so generous with the alcohol, however, once we mentioned that to them, the bartender definitely came thru for us, nicely accommodating and willing to make up. Id come here again for sure! Would love to try other items on their menu!
April 10 · Melissa A. Ventura MS EdThe food was absolutely amazing, and the vibes were just right for a late night meal. We had the chips and salsa and esquites as an app. The mezcal chicken was by far the highlight, but the enchiladas were great too. We ended with churros for dessert and they were still warm and delicious. I would highly recommend this place.
July 28 · Edward Poveda
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