Cinco de MENA (x2)

In honor of the 5th of May, and Willamena having just turned ten, we continue the celebration with Cinco de Mena (x2.)

The Menu for Mena consisted of pulled pork, (actually a dried pork dog treat from the Texas company Merrick) and Mena-Colladas!

Mena also loves left-over take out from Mexican restaurants, especially the chips. She rarely gets a doggie bag, though. Not just because its not really good for her, but also because there usually isn't any food left!

For people who find themselves in Manhattan looking for a margarita or Mexican food, don't listen to the pundits! There are plenty of delicious places to fiesta in NYC.

Starting with a new favorite this year,
Mole.

Mole is on Allen Street just off of East Houston. The restaurant is family owned. The wife is from Mexico City. She created the chipotle pork tacos at her other restaurant, Taco Taco on the Upper East Side on Second Avenue near 90th.

1. Mexican Radio.
19 Cleveland Place

For those looking for stuffed jalapenos hotter than you'll find in Texas, this is your place. They aren't on the menu, you have to ask for them. The margaritas are strong; they also offer a jalapeno marg.

2. Santa Fe.

73 W 71st St, Btwn Columbus Ave & CPW

This is more southwestern cuisine than Mexican, but the Margaritas and salsa can't be beat. After just two, you'll be ready for a siesta.

3. Los Dados.
73 Gansevoort St at Washington St

A hot spot in the Meatpacking district. Mexican for when you need to feel trendy.

4. Baby Bo's Cantina
627 2nd Ave. Btwn 34th and 35th

From what I remember, the margaritas and salsa are good.

5. Cafe Frida
368 Columbus Ave, Btwn 77th & 78th St
This isn't a place where you get chips and salsa when you sit down. You have to order them. But the tacos you roll yourself are worth the sacrifice.

6. Diablo Royale.
189 W 10th St, Btwn W 4th & Bleecker St
The steak soft tacos are devilishly delicious. Beware this place is usually packed at night. The keeper of Otis, Willamena's boyfriend, had her first margarita ever here!

7. El Rey del Sol
232 W 14th St, Btwn 7th & 8th Ave
Fresh Fruit margaritas are great. Try the grapefruit margs. Beware the tamales. They are vegetarian- all corn meal!

8. Zocalo.
Three locations. But I've only eaten at the one at Grand Central Terminal.
Headed to Connecticut? Ask for a margarita on the rocks to go.

9. Tehuitzingo
695 10th Ave(between 47th St & 48th St)
(212) 397-5956
This is the place to find your family-made tacos. No pretension, and very little English.