Where Flavor Meets Culture: Mexican Restaurants in NYC and Restaurants in Long Island City
- Citrico Cafe
- Jul 10, 2025
- 3 min read
When you think about where to eat in New York City, the options are endless—but if you’re looking for something that brings bold flavor, cultural richness, and a great vibe, Mexican restaurants in NYC are always a solid bet. And when narrowing it down even further, one name stands out in the bustling neighborhood of Long Island City: CÃtrico Café.
This modern Mexican spot delivers more than just good food. It's a full experience—mixing tradition with creativity, and community with comfort. Whether you're a local looking for new flavors or a tourist trying to discover hidden gems, CÃtrico Café offers a taste of Mexico with a Queens twist.
Why CÃtrico Café Is the Perfect Restaurant in Long Island City. Mexican restaurants in NYC
Long Island City has grown into one of NYC’s most dynamic neighborhoods. With a mix of art galleries, riverside parks, and sleek buildings, it’s also become a destination for great dining. In that landscape, CÃtrico Café shines with authenticity and innovation.
Its interior is a mix of modern and rustic: exposed brick, warm lighting, vibrant decor. Latin music plays softly in the background. The space invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy every bite.
Whether you’re here for lunch, dinner, or just drinks, you’ll find something that makes you want to come back.
A Menu That Honors and Elevates Mexican Cuisine
What sets CÃtrico apart from other Mexican restaurants in NYC is its dedication to flavor and quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos with Consommé: Slow-cooked, tender, deeply spiced, and served with a rich dipping broth.
Tuna Tiradito: Sushi-grade tuna marinated in citrus and chile oil, topped with herbs—a fusion of freshness and depth.
Guacamole with Charred Pineapple: A smoky-sweet twist on a classic.
Red Enchiladas: Filled with chicken and topped with guajillo salsa, crema, and cotija.
Chilaquiles: Your choice of red or green, finished with crema, cheese, and eggs (or protein of your choice).
Every plate is crafted to highlight regional ingredients and cooking styles from Mexico, while also embracing a bit of New York creativity.
Infused Agave Cocktails: A Signature Touch
You’ll also find a standout bar program. CÃtrico is known for its house-made infused agave spirits—used in signature cocktails like:
Jalapeño Tequila Margarita
Hibiscus Mezcal Mule
Tamarind or Pineapple Agave Sours
These drinks are fresh, bold, and often surprising. You can even ask for a mezcal flight to explore the diversity of smoky, earthy agave spirits.
Salsa Nights, Brunch Vibes, and Latin Soul
CÃtrico Café isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a space to celebrate. On Thursday nights, salsa music takes over the room. DJs spin Latin tracks, the lights dim, and the mood shifts to vibrant and dance-worthy. It’s a unique way to wind down your week and connect with the community.
Weekends? That’s brunch time—and here, that means bottomless mimosas, DJs, and dishes like French toast with mezcal syrup, breakfast tacos, and flan for dessert.
The blend of music, food, and ambiance turns every visit into a mini celebration.
Perfect for Locals and Visitors Alike
If you’re living in Queens and wondering where to go for a Friday night dinner, date night, or group outing, CÃtrico Café is a go-to. And if you’re just visiting NYC and want to explore beyond Manhattan, restaurants in Long Island City like this one are a great way to experience a more local, authentic side of the city.
CÃtrico is walkable from nearby trains, just minutes from the waterfront parks and cultural spots that make LIC such a special place.
Final Bite: Where to Find Flavor in NYC
So whether you’re looking for the best Mexican restaurants in NYC or just want to find restaurants in Long Island City that feel warm, fresh, and full of character, CÃtrico Café hits all the right notes.
From infused cocktails and traditional dishes to salsa nights and weekend brunches, it’s a place that offers more than food—it offers flavor, rhythm, and soul.