The World in NYC: Mexico

The most recent census numbers show that there are approximately 54 million Latin Americans living in the United States; out of that population 33.7 million (64%) were of Mexican origin in 2012. No other Latino group even comes close to the Mexican population in the U.S.; the second largest group, Puerto Ricans, number only approximately 4.6 million. On top of that, Mexicans are now the fastest growing ethnic group in the United States.

While Mexicans have been migrating to the United States for decades, the first big wave of Mexican immigration to New York City happened in the 1990s and 2000s. In 1990, Mexicans in the city numbered about 58,000 (3.3% of Latinos in the city) but by 2010, that number had increased to over 340,000 (14.3% of Latinos in the city.)Over half of Mexicans living in New York City live in Brooklyn or Queens. The neighborhoods of Sunset Park, Bushwick, and Flatbush have the highest concentration of Mexicans in Brooklyn, and in Queens the neighborhoods of Elmhurst and Jackson Heights take that title. Other neighborhoods which many Mexican Americans call home include Corona and Kew Gardens.The area which is probably easiest to visit in order to get a taste of Mexico is in Manhattan’s East Harlem around the 116th Street and 2nd Avenue area. This area used to be dominated by Puerto Ricans (and before that Jews and Italians) but now the largest part of the new population moving to the neighborhood are Mexican In East Harlem it is common to see Mexican flags waving proudly in the wind, while many Mexican bodegas, restaurants, Mexican travel agencies and general grocery stores are located throughout the area. The Mexico Lindo Grocery was the first store in the area to sell Mexican fare such as tortillas, jalapenos, and Mexican bread, and is worth checking out.

MEXICAN FOOD IN NYC

The Mexican restaurant industry is a very popular one in the United States and there is no shortage of Mexican restaurants in New York City. Truthfully, there are a huge number of delicious options, but we have tried our very best (we’re not complaining!) to pick some of the top ones for you.El Paso1643 Lexington Avenue, between 104th and 103rd StreetEl Paso has three locations in the Spanish Harlem area and many New Yorkers travel from all parts of the city just to have their delicious plate of black beans and rice with a glass of sangria.,If you’re ever in the area you’ll regret it if you miss out on this neighborhood staple. El Paso also boasts one of the best burritos in the city and a lively atmosphere.Hecho en Dumbo354 Bowery StreetThis restaurant originated in the Dumbo neighborhood of Brooklyn, but because of booming business it outgrew its space and relocated. Now Hecho en Dumbo is one of the greatest Mexican spots in the East Village. It can be a loud space but with a party of people this is a great spot to get your fun night out started!La Esquina114 Kenmare StreetFor a more upscale but still authentic Mexican taste, La Esquina is definitely a treat. It has a trendier vibe than establishments like El Paso, but the food is just as wonderful. The upstairs of La Esquina looks like a regular take out, while the downstairs restaurant – which strictly requires reservations well in advance – feels like one of the top New York clubs. One of our favorite dishes is definitely the avocado soup and char-grilled string beans called ejotes.Dos Toros137 4th AvenueIf you want delicious Mexican food but need it on-the-go then Dos Toros is definitely the place to go. You can choose between a burrito, taco, quesadilla or plato (burrito without tortilla) and pick what you’d like on it from an array of meats, cheeses, beans, and rice.  Our favorite? We highly recommend the pork tacos, they're heavenly.Rosa Mexicano9 East 18th StreetOne of the oldest Mexican establishments in New York (1984), Rosa Mexicano is now a New York City staple when it comes to Mexican food. Their fun margaritas and delicious guacamole prepared tableside are worth the trip alone. While some may see it as not being “authentic” enough because of its vast popularity, the food is very rich in Mexican sauces and flavors.Pinche Taqueria227 Mott StreetDubbed as the “first real authentic taqueria in New York City,” Pinche Taqueria has the ability to make you feel like you’re on a beach in the middle of the city. It has a very cool, relaxed, and friendly vibe to it. The tacos are amazing and you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

MEXICAN CULTURE IN NYC

While Mexican cuisine is truly delicious, the culture is about so much more than food! To experience a more rounded taste of the Mexican culture, you may want to visit the following institutions:Mano a Mano126 Saint Felix Street, Brooklyn,The Mano a Mano Mexican cultural center in Brooklyn provides classes in Mexican languages (Spanish as well as indigenous languages), music, dance, and visual arts. It is great neighborhood cultural center in downtown Brooklyn.Mexican Cultural Institute of New York27 East 39th StreetFounded in 1991, the Mexican Cultural Institute of New York’s main purpose is to highlight the uniqueness of Mexican art and culture.El Museo del Barrio1230 5th AvenueEl Museo has an array of exhibitions showcasing various Latin American cultures and boasts many unique pieces pertaining to the Mexican and Mexican American culture in New York City.While the Mexican culture in New York City isn’t as prevalent as other areas of the country like Texas and Baja California, the population is rising and their influence is increasingly being felt.

Article updated November 25, 2014