13 May La Esquina
It’s rare that I go back to eat at the same restaurant on consecutive days but today’s subject is the exception. On my recent trip to New York I joined friends at La Esquina for dinner and was so enraptured by the place that I spent the night dreaming about shrimp tacos and had to return at lunchtime the next day! ?
Essentially tacos are a simple food which means that freshness is everything. At La Esquina they are served straight off the grill to avoid any sogginess once the filling has been added. And what fillings they are! Over the course of two days I tried five of the eight flavours on offer. Most include a variation of onion (white or gently pickled red) and salsa (green, red or avocado). Pollo is pulled rotisserie chicken, Pescado has grilled mahi and cabbage – the mahi was wonderfully juicy. For something richer, the barbecued lamb shoulder hits the spot with pasilla de Oaxaca salsa (Oaxacan chilli). Carnitas (pulled pork) was sold out at dinner but a success at lunch, perfectly soft and flavourful. The taco which had me drooling through the night is the taco de cameron ?Prawns were grilled gently so as to retain their sweetness. To garnish were crunchy cabbage strips, chipotle mayo, pickled red onions and salsa verde. This really gets your tastebuds going from sweet, sour, a hint of mayo richness and lightness from fresh herbs. Each taco comes with a slice of lime for liberal squeezing, bringing them to life. Both green and red hot sauces are provided for an extra chilli hit.
There are other dishes on the menu such as tostadas, various bowls and salads. One recommendation was the tortilla soup. This has a thick tomato base with pulled chicken, onions, queso fresco and avocado. Crisp tortilla strips give the soup its name and textural variation. This is great for colder days when you want a warming, hearty dish!
La Esquina is now on my must-eat list when I’m in NYC. It’s fresh, quick and vibrant, exactly what I wish for in a taco!
Where are your favourite Mexican restaurants? I’d love to hear your recommendations! Please give this post a like if you enjoyed it and head on over to my instagram for more foodie photos.
See you next week for a feast of a post!
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STATS
Nearest venues: Lincoln Centre, Carnegie Hall
Total receipt: $18
Tacos $4.50 each – 4 per person should fill you up!
Rating: 9.5/10 Dreamy
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