Javelina

Javelina arrived in Gramercy with plenty of buzz, touting itself as bringing authentic Tex-Mex to the streets of Manhattan. The restaurant has built up significant hype, with Texas pride on full display from a staff that will happily tell you about their Lone Star State connections. Whether it lives up to the “real Tex-Mex” claims depends on who you ask, but there’s no denying this place has captured the attention of New York diners looking for queso and margaritas.

The menu delivers a mix of hits worth ordering and some dishes you might want to skip. The chile relleno stands out as a star—a grilled poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and beef, fried to perfection, and elevated with an unexpected combination of pecans and raisins that creates an incredible flavor profile. The San Antonio Puffy Taco is another winner, featuring a deep-fried corn tortilla loaded with tender pork shoulder and all the right toppings. The fajitas deliver on quality with good steak and fresh tortillas, perfect for sharing with friends over a pitcher of margaritas.

Getting a table here is the real challenge. The restaurant’s popularity means reservations can feel nearly impossible to secure, so plan ahead if you’re set on visiting. This is best experienced as a group outing where you can spread out the ordering, share some queso (eat it quickly before it gets too thick), and enjoy the lively atmosphere that comes with a buzzy neighborhood spot.

For those craving Tex-Mex flavors in Manhattan, Javelina offers a solid option with some genuinely delicious dishes to discover. Just manage your expectations, focus on the standout items, and bring your patience for the reservation game.