El Cantinero
Mexican Restaurant
$$
4.2
(1305)
El Cantinero presents a lively atmosphere with mostly authentic dishes, although some patrons have raised concerns regarding the portions and flavors of certain items. Overall, it continues to provide a delightful dining experience, particularly praised for its margaritas and friendly service.
Phone number: (212) 255-9378
Address: 86 University Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA
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Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)
**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**
" I had heard a lot about El Cantinero's reputation for good Mexican food, and I was eager to try it out. Unfortunately, my experience was a bit of a letdown. Although the environment was lively and pleasant, the food itself didn’t meet my expectations of authenticity. I ordered the chicken enchiladas, which were somewhat bland and could have used more spice or flavor. My friend’s dish was similar – it lacked that homemade touch that I was hoping for. The service was decent; nothing outstanding but quick enough for our needs. I might revisit someday, but I’ll be more cautious in my choices. " (*Curated Review*)
" El Cantinero is a cozy little gem in the city that never fails to impress. Their menu boasts a great variety of authentic Mexican cuisine, from enchiladas to sizzling fajitas, each prepared with fresh ingredients. I was particularly fascinated by their homemade salsas and guacamole; these were delightfully fresh and flavorful. The restaurant had a buzzing atmosphere, especially on Fridays when they have live music, which adds to the overall Mexican dining experience. However, I do wish they would increase their portion sizes as I felt a bit underwhelmed after finishing my meal. Despite that, the quality of food makes this a place I would easily recommend to others! " (*Curated Review*)
" El Cantinero has been recommended by several friends, and I see why! The atmosphere is inviting with colorful decorations and friendly staff. I tried their platters of mixed tacos, which were tasty. The presentation was nice, and the flavors were vibrant. I paired it with a classic margarita, which hit the spot. However, I felt that the prices were a bit steep compared to the portion sizes, especially for the appetizers. Still, the quality of food and the overall experience made up for it, and I would consider returning for another round with friends! " (*Curated Review*)
" During my visit to El Cantinero, I was pleasantly surprised by the boisterous and festive atmosphere. The staff welcomed me warmly, and my drink was promptly served. I tried their famous steak fajitas, which were tasty but rather tiny in serving size. I appreciated the freshness of their ingredients, especially in the salsa. It’s a great place for a fun evening out with friends, but just be mindful that portion sizes could be a concern for larger appetites. " (*Curated Review*)
" I was excited to visit El Cantinero after hearing such great things, but my meal didn’t quite live up to my expectations. While the tacos were fine, I found them to be a bit bland and not very authentic compared to what I’ve had elsewhere. However, the ambiance was lively and pleasant, perfect for a night out with friends. Our waiter was very friendly, which made the experience more enjoyable. I'd say it's worth a visit, but just manage your expectations regarding the food’s authenticity. " (*Curated Review*)
Archived Reviews (1046)
" I had the opportunity to visit El Cantinero last night, and it was quite the treat! The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, and my friends and I enjoyed sampling several dishes. The guacamole was fresh, and the chips were crispy. However, I did find the portion sizes to be a bit small compared to what I was expecting for the price. The highlight was the tacos al pastor; absolutely delicious. Our server was attentive, making sure we were happy throughout the night. I will definitely be recommending this place to others, especially for special occasions! " (*Curated Review*)
" As a frequent visitor to Mexican restaurants, I was looking forward to trying El Cantinero. I loved the atmosphere and how lively the place felt. While I enjoyed the chicken enchiladas, they didn’t strike me as particularly special. I enjoyed the margaritas, but again, I sensed a bit of a disconnect between prices and portion sizes. Despite being slightly disappointed, I appreciated the prompt service and will likely give it another chance with a different dish. " (*Curated Review*)
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