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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown

Salsa spots

Made for those who require a side of salsa with every single lunch they consume.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 1
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 2
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with homemade corn tortillas and authentic, flavorful tacos. Atmosphere is basic and unpretentious, with reasonable prices and a quiet vibe during off-peak hours. Popular for hearty breakfast tacos and well-balanced dishes like carne guisada.

Offers a quick bite option with decent food. Suitable for family lunches with a relaxed atmosphere.

Salsa comes out quickly with the chips and drinks. The green salsa is muy buena and the regular salsa is spicy.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The salsa here is amazing and fresh."

"I thought it was a great lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a family-owned local business.

2

The prices are affordable with generous portions.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with no frills.

02
Carnitas Don Raรบl image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with industrial design and packed tables creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy a self-serve salsa bar and cold aluminum cups for well-crafted Palomas and mezcaladas. The vibe stays laid-back with friendly staff and a focus on best carnitas in town.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with a busy atmosphere and a line that moves quickly. Early visits find the spot quiet, offering a chance to enjoy the meal in peace before the rush.

A salsa bar stays neat and well stocked throughout service. The salsa Verde pairs well with rich carnitas. Both salsa and guacamole taste fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I've ever had."

"These carnitas tacos are juicy, flavorful, and tender."

"The carnitas here are tender and packed with delicious pork."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Don Raรบl closes at 5 PM.

2

Expect long lines on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant now has a dining area with air conditioning.

03
Cafe Alameda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere with authentic Latinx decor. The place serves scratch-made dishes featuring house-made tortillas and flavorful salsas, creating a straightforward and genuine dining experience.

Daily lunch plates come with the option to get your beverage in a to-go cup. The spot serves only breakfast and lunch, making it a reliable choice for midday meals while working nearby.

Homemade salsas bring a spicy kick with the serrano and green varieties standing out. The green salsa is surprisingly spicy and pairs well with corn tortillas, though chips and salsa come at an extra cost.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas here are amazing and taste like Grandma's."

"The homemade salsa has a spicy kick."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and served fresh."

Good to know

1

No alcohol is served at Cafe Alameda.

2

The restaurant only serves breakfast and lunch.

3

They offer daily lunch plates and provide the option to ask for your beverage in a cup to go.

04
El Castillo Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small storefront with high ceilings and authentic Mexican decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Mexican music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it a good spot for breakfast or lunch. The space feels homey and down to earth, distinct from tourist-heavy areas.

Casual spot with a diner atmosphere serves large platters at good prices. Popular lunch dishes include parrillada and steak a la mexicana, attracting many local workmen.

Green hot salsa stands out with its spicy kick that makes the nose run. Chips come with a thin salsa that has spot on flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful breakfast tacos and fresh ingredients."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and always a 10/10."

"I loved the delicious food here; it's never a mistake."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during busy hours.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is located near the touristy Riverwalk area.

05
Cafe Ole image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating along the riverwalk offers shaded trees, fans, and live mariachi music creating a relaxing atmosphere. Views of the river and people passing by add to the calm, enjoyable vibe. The place draws those looking to unwind with margaritas and authentic Mexican flavors.

Great service stands out during lunch with servers like Juan, Yaneli, and Paul handling busy times smoothly. The spot suits lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends, offering a memorable experience.

Salsa comes fresh and full of flavor with the right amount of spice. Chips arrive in a large amount and pair well with the fresh, flavorful salsa.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"Gina's drinks were amazing and perfectly presented."

"Our server was awesome and took great care of us."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 5 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Kids eat free with an adult entrรฉe purchase.

3

The restaurant is located on the River Walk, offering scenic views.

06
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Attentive service stands out with servers like Bash and Greg checking in often and keeping drinks filled. Lunch moves quickly even during the Saturday rush, making it a smooth spot for midday meals.

Salsa here stays true to Mexican roots with authentic seasonings and fresh flavors. It pairs well with top notch guac and street tacos, making it a solid choice for classic tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"The salsa here is really good, definitely homemade."

"Our server made our lunch experience great."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

07
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant with retro decor and a cozy, inviting atmosphere featuring live country western music. The space balances pleasant music volume and warm service, attracting a crowd for breakfast and lunch with fresh, authentic dishes and strong, well-crafted margaritas.

Lunch features fresh food served quickly, ideal for a break. Options include poblano chile enchiladas and chicken enchiladas for a light meal.

Warm salsa comes with a spicy kick that stands out from typical cold versions. The green salsa pairs well with eggs and enchiladas, offering a well-seasoned, flavorful option, while the red salsa tastes more ketchupy and tomato-y.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here have incredible, fresh tortillas."

"This lunch spot's Mexican dishes are fresh and mouthwatering."

"The homemade salsas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Sunday is menudo day, offering a special dish for visitors.

2

The restaurant closes at 2 pm from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Poblanos is open until 7 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

08
The Republic of Texas Restaurant image 1

Dining alongside the flowing river creates a bright, lively atmosphere with live Mexican and country music enhancing the experience. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable river views attracting families, couples, and solo diners. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a diverse menu complement the festive vibe.

Lunch here offers quick service and good food by the water. Returning for lunch is common due to the consistent quality.

Fresh warm chips come with hot salsa before meals. The homemade salsa tastes fantastic and stands out.

People are saying

"Our server Jordan was amazing and provided an awesome dining experience."

"Monica made our lunch so pleasant and was a great server."

"The chips and salsa here were pretty good."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available all day long.

2

The restaurant is dog friendly.

3

Expect no wait for a table during off-peak hours.

09
Agave Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Riverside setting offers beautiful views and shady outdoor seating along the walk. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family friendly with live mariachi music enhancing the vibe. The space combines great decor with a peaceful, inviting environment.

Lunch happens with friendly service from attentive staff like Chris and Angel. Seating by the river adds a nice touch to the meal.

Salsa arrives quickly with chips and has a nice kick. It stands out as tasty and amazing compared to others.

People are saying

"The food suggestions were great and the service was amazing."

"The service at this lunch spot was so friendly and attentive."

"The salsa here is great, truly to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials offer discounted drinks and bar food.

2

Seating is available directly on the riverwalk for a scenic view.

3

Expect high prices for food and drinks, which may not match the quality.

10
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar image 1

Live mariachi bands roam a spacious patio overlooking a market square, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The setting combines nostalgic decor with lively music, drawing a busy crowd that often sings along. Tables offer ample space, supporting a relaxed and engaging dining experience.

Lunch features large portions and flavorful specials. Seafood options include a fish dish paired with a seafood enchilada, rice, and beans.

Salsa here is fresh and spicy with just the right kick. Chips and salsa feel addictive, almost like they have a special ingredient.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The salsa here is fresh, spicy, and has just the right kick."

Good to know

1

Each song requested by the mariachis costs $10.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and snacks.

3

Parking discounts are available with a stamped ticket from the adjacent lot.

11
Tiaโ€™s Taco Hut image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with hand-painted Mexican-style decor and vibrant decorations creates a festive, intimate atmosphere. Bright, colorful setting feels cozy and fun, often crowded with a lively vibe. Drive-thru window adds convenience alongside complimentary chips and salsa for dine-in.

Lunch specials offer inexpensive, tasty meals like enchiladas, carne guisada, rice, and beans with tortillas and a large tea. The spot works well for group lunches and serves filling options just before closing.

Salsa comes with complimentary chips that are ridiculously fresh. The salsa tastes epic and very tasty, often included free with daily specials.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the people are so sweet."

"I found the food at this lunch spot to be pretty good."

"The salsa here is amazing, especially with the chips."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait about 30 minutes in the drive-thru.

2

Prices for tacos start at over $5 each.

3

They charge an extra fee for using credit or debit cards.

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