El Azteca

I had a quick drink with a friend, and decided to try the Maple-Bacon Manhattan: polishes the insides and warms the soul (+ delicious). Best decision I made that day - beautifully balanced cocktail, which is a rare find. Too often, such drinks are overpowered by way too much sugar, but not here; the mash, dry vermouth, and candied bacon play off each other and practically infuse the bourbon. I shall certainly return!

What a secret gem right in the heart of the city - well at least the heart of Hell’s Kitchen. The menu is vast offering lots for the vegetarian crowd - not just rice and beans. I am a meat lover and found the items with meat to be seasoned just right. Aside from great tasting food, the drinks are great and mixed perfectly. Prices for food and drink are especially reasonable, especially for NYC, but come during their nice long happy hour (4pm - 8pm) and you will be able to treat your friends too! The restaurant is spacious and simple. The staff is extraordinarily friendly and on the day I was there, most of the guests were return customers who were greeted at the door by owner Maria Diaz with a great big hug. Maria talks of retiring, but if enough people cone around and it stays busy - LaAzteca will be around for a good long while (but don’t wait too long to pop in for a great meal and a drink)!

This is a great little place, and it has been a part of the Hell’s Kitchen NYC community for two decades. I love the down-home vibe that is reflected in the cooking as well as in the entire experience. Sometimes going here feels like eating in someone’s home. There are other, slicker Mexican restaurants up and down the avenue, but the honey feeling here is unique.