I met a friend for dinner. Since she is from Brooklyn and I was staying in Queens she suggested Kandela. EXCELLENT CHOICE! There is a parking lot and if you are lucky you get a spot! The parking lot serves all the businesses in this collection of businesses. The entrance is gorgeous with a big Dia de Los Muertos mural as you enter. The person greeting me is very friendly. The entire restaurant is very clean and has ample seating. I was seated while I waited for my friend. I ordered a red wine sangria. It had a good amount of fruit in it, was perfectly chilled, and not too sweet. We each ordered fajitas. I ordered shrimp. I was able to sub flour tortillas for corn. The portion was so big I had enough for another meal. Everything came out together, perfectly hot, with sides of salsa and seasoned sour cream. There were also sides of rice, black beans, and cotija cheese. My friend has a non alcoholic Mojito. I also had a tamarind Jarritos soda. We each ordered a sweet. My friend had churros. They came with three flavors of dipping sauce. I ordered the house made flan. The custard was great! The caramel was burnt. I feel the prices are very reasonable considering this is NYC, and the cost of food now a days. If I am ever in the area again I will definitely return to try more of their extensive amazing menu! read more

See all

Went for taco Tuesday and I can say I've had better flavorful tastier tacos. Maybe it Iwas an off day or because it was busy being taco Tuesday but my steak and chicken taco left nothing to be desired. Missed the mark on the seasoning & sauce as they were bland! My partner ordered the battered chicken cutlet and guess what?? No seasoning at all! We took it home and made chicken parm. Extremely disappointed. We look forward to going out having a good time with food and drinks and this was horrible. Not our 1st time coming here but always want to give businesses a second chance. They failed. Margaritas you can't go wrong. Kudos to others that find their food exceptional and delicious. Margaritas were good. Can't go wrong there. Music was also good just hard to hear and communicate but that doesn't bother me. My opinion Have a great day read more

Neighborhood place with parking and pretty decor Service and ambiance are good They have tons of specials during the week Happy hour from 12-4 I believe drinks are tasty and well prepared. But the food needs work the meat doesn't taste fresh and there needs to be more seasoning. The kitchen needs to up their game. read more

See all

The restaurant is very welcoming Vibrant colors great music. The hostess is always pleasant our server is as well. I usually order a passionfruit margarita my friend order is a passionfruit Mojito the drinks are fantastic. They also have happy hour as well and their prices are really good. I usually order the Mexican burger and my friend orders cheese quesadilla with jalapeños, and for apps I usually get guacamole and chips and she gets empanadas definitely recommend this place you won't be disappointed. read more

See all

Such a great time at Kandela. A hidden gem. The vibes were great and so was the service. The food was also good.

GREAT TACO TUESDAY SPOT IN QUEENS I have only visited Kandela on Tuesdays and every time it has been a vibe. I suspect that the vibe was completely fueled by the drinks. The drinks are good because they are strong yet tasty. I highly recommend trying their margarita sampler if available. The food is also good. I have only had tacos across all my visits and have yet to be disappointed by them. I was not a fan of their tres leches though. I would have opted for another drink and skipped dessert. Good to note the following: 1) Their tacos are made with soft corn tortillas only. 2) Happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 12 to 6 PM. 3) They serve brunch on the weekends with 90-minute bottomless brunch available for $15 extra. read more

See all

Horrible service. We came in and asked to sit in a booth but were denied because our party was "too small," despite there being two open booths available. Shortly after, a party of three was seated in a booth. I'm not going to assume this was racially motivated, but the treatment felt inconsistent and unfair. On top of that, our food was undercooked. We had to send chicken back to be recooked because it was not fully cooked, which is a major issue. We arrived before happy hour ended, asked our waitress if we could order happy hour drinks, and placed our order. When the bill came, the drinks were charged at regular prices instead of happy hour prices. When we questioned it, we were told we should have read the fine print on the menu -- a menu that had been taken from another table. As a server, clear communication about pricing or restrictions should be part of the job. When we explained all of these issues, there was little accountability and excuses instead of solutions, despite having the same server throughout our visit. We were even offered shots, which we declined because we do not drink. After multiple inconveniences, nothing was adjusted on our bill. Overall, poor service, poor communication, and disappointing food safety standards. We will not be returning. All customers deserve fair and equal treatment. read more

In the area on a Tuesday night and while Taco Tuesdays is very much a thing, we stopped in for drinks. One of my girls suggested Kandelas as she is a fan of both their tacos and margarita sampler/flight. Unfortunately the sampler wasn't offered, so I went with the Hibiscus Marg, which I really enjoyed. I am Interested in returning to try the tacos and happy hour in the future. While we didn't order any food, we did surprise the Capricorn at the table with a little Feliz Cumpleaños Canción and ordered her one of her favs. A slice of Tres Leches, sadly she didn't not enjoy it, it didn't seem to be fresh. Overall a cool spot with dia de los muertos murals and vibes. Just A Note: -There is $1 up-charge for every margarita rim that is salted or sugared -3.25% Credit Card Fee added if you tap or swipe read more

See all

Food was tasteless, service was VERY slow people came in after my table and was catered to before us got their order and drinks before. Would not recommend going if you want good tasting food. The chicken was bland it needed salt at the very least it did not even have that. The rice was just as bad, i really do not understand how there is no seasoning in any of the food. The only thing i can say was good was the Guacamole. read more

This place WAS my regular go to Mexican restaurant. The food is great the staff is super friendly and attentive. However, after a week I returned to see the prices have been raised. I totally understand with the cost of things being higher there must be some raising, but not to the extreme to what they've done. The steak entree went from $30 to $48 dollars and it's not a big steak. Also this is not a steak house to charge that pricing. Can almost guarantee that this place that is always bustling with people will now fade out!! read more

Every dish was a hit, but the tacos truly stole the show. Packed with bold, authentic flavors, each bite was perfectly balanced--tender, well-seasoned protein, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas that held everything together beautifully. You can tell real care goes into every taco that comes out of the kitchen. The tostones were fried to absolute perfection: golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned just right. They were addictive on their own and even better paired with the accompanying sauces. The Spanish corn was a standout side--sweet, smoky, and creamy with just the right amount of seasoning. It added a comforting yet vibrant touch to the meal and complemented everything on the table. To top it all off, the ceviche was incredibly fresh and refreshing. Bright citrus flavors, tender seafood, and a perfect mix of herbs and spices made it light, zesty, and the ideal contrast to the richer dishes. Overall, this was an unforgettable meal filled with flavor, texture, and authenticity. From start to finish, everything was executed beautifully, leaving me already excited for my next visit. read more

See all

I really wanted to try this restaurant and today is my birthday so we had plans to go there to eat. I made a reservation and the party was 4 people-myself, my parents and my 5 year old son. We walk in and are seated right away, no issues there. The issue I had was how loud the music was. They had a DJ absolutely BLASTING music where we couldn't even hear each other speak. I asked if they could lower the music a little bit because again, child-little ears, and not much was done in that department. I knew I couldn't sit for a full dinner in that environment so I thanked the waitress but said we can't stay and we left. I don't want to go to dinner to leave with a headache. read more

When they first opened they were subpar at most. Now, they're great. Good food, great drinks, the music is good. The service could be a little better, not because they're rude or anything but they need more people on per shift. You never know if it'll be slow or not and having one waitress and one bartender is not enough. read more

150-03 Restaurant Corp Dba Kandela - Steak tacos - Mexican Near Me - Park, New York

Food was ok. Birria tacos had no cheese which, I thought they were supposed to? Food took over 30 minutes to come. Waiter came to our table a good 3 times. Waitress wasn't around our table section for a good 20 minutes. Menu states "All entrees come with chips & salsa" My table never received chips or salsa. It was mother's day, so they gave almost every female a rose. My mother didn't receive a rose. The music in there was way too loud it gave me a headache. Im all for good music in restaurants but this was just too loud in the middle of the day. It's not a club. read more

Took my parents out to eat last minute. We were seated right away. But worst seats ever right next to the DJ we couldn't even talk to each other. Ordered chicken tacos Birria tacos Tacos de nopal Shrimp fajitas which came with rice and beans And tacos with everything. Appetizers we had calamari and guacamole and chips. -smallest guacamole dish ever with a basket of chips. Some chips were stale. -chicken tacos look good but the chicken was rubbery and tasted off. So ended up not eating it and just had calamari. Everything else was ok not much flavor. Out of all the food the calamari was 10/10. Drinks were really good. I would say if anything skip on food and just sit at the bar and have some drinks. read more

See all

Was here today .. first to the hostess WHAT MAKES YOU THINK THAT I WANT TO SPEND MY BEAUTIFUL SATURDAY NEXT TO A CHILD WHO IS Loud AND STANING Annoying D JUMPING ON THE CHAIR?! I'll never come there again !! I asked for a different table and was told no I should have walked out at that moment.. the guacamole was trash smooth puree has to be frozen was bland no seasoning no onions no tomatoes no lime was a mess a puree like they sell at restaurant depot frozen pulp terrible taste and consistency no one who has fresh avocado would puree it like baby food unless it came in frozen .. next we ordered the pasor tacos was bland could not even taste the pork could not tell if it was pork or Chicken terrible. Then the worse this was the barria tacos omg the beef tasted burnt no flavor at all the broth was inedible was like roast beef gravy no flavor looked like brown water ... I wasted $125 today I rather went to Taco Bell.. the mezcal Mule was very good ...and so was the margarita...music so load I don't understand the management how many reviewers must complain about the load music before you do something? read more

This was my first time visiting Kandela during brunch hours, and I'm glad I came because the Tres Leches French Toast was really good. The waitress was very attentive and the service was good. The restaurant had just opened so it was really calm and clean. Kandela is a spot I'd always visit. read more

See all

A celebration resturant. Friends and I went here for brunch and there were at least 5 birthdays being celebrated. We ordered our food and recieved chips n salsa and a mismosa. The breakfast was delicious and very filling. Waitstaff was friendly and the restaurant decor was cute and fresh read more

See all

Drinks good, food is flavorless - had the al pastor and birria, Al pastor is NOT Al pastor and the birria had little to know flavor meat nor sauce - go for the drinks and that's all - staff is good as well read more

Ordered a chicken burrito and right after I open it it smelled weird (not good) rice was soggy chicken was tasteless. Won't order food from here again. read more

Service was very good but the food was very mediocre. The parking lot is less than desirable as well as the location. I wanted to like this as it's a neighborhood business but the restaurant is just not good. read more

150-03 Restaurant Corp Dba Kandela - Queso Fundido - Mexican Near Me - Park, New York

I have ate here before during the pandemic, the ambiance and decor is beautifully crafted. I ordered a margarita on the rocks with grilled cheese nachos, both were delicious and tasty. My only issue is that eating outside is too expensive for me now my friend had three tacos, guacamole and chips, and a ginger ale. The bill was $81 for what??? read more

See all

I will have a 4 because our server was not attentive at all. Made a mistake & tried to charged us for her mistake. We stayed because the ambiance was nice and the food was delicious. We almost got taken for her $18.00 mistake and she never brought us our appetizer. A must try just pack your patience and check your bill! read more

See all

Love it here! 5/5 The food is so good, the drinks are strong & the staff is very friendly and accommodating. I come here all the time with family & friends & everyone only has good things to say. The decor is really nice & I love the Mexican art they have over. Best Mexican food in the area by far! My favorite dish is definitely the salmon. read more

See all

I come here frequently and they always have good happy hour drinks and food but today I come and witnessed someone at the bar giving another person a blow job this is quite disturbing where is the management and control of this place servers are always great but where is the respect for them and the customers this place has gone to the ground the customers are as bad as there 2 dollar tacos on taco Tuesday read more

Sábado sabroso! The vibe was already lively when my date and I arrived for an early dinner. Fast forward two hours later and there were "bendiciónes" being shouted and sung across the dining room. Everyone was in celebration mode and it was infectious. We stuffed our faces with the carnitas and baja tacos, but that sauce accompaniment had a heat that sneaks up on you. Good thing I love me some spice, and some Mezcal mule to chill the tongue tingles. Mil gracias to our server slash bartender for making a potent first round! My only note would be for their DEDOS de CATRINA. That name alone got us to order them, but the salmon that they're made of was way over cooked. CATRINA got us good...her burps lasted until the next day. read more

See all

Great spot on a Monday night they even had a special for fajitas. And I got a mojito flight. They were so good and it came with a second refill. You get a nice little buzz off that flight and I got the mixed fajita plate chicken shrimp and steak. Good flavor , nice size portions and even better price. I will come back here again . read more

See all

The quesadilla I ordered was amazing! It was a super busy night so the wait was pretty long and service wasn't the best but I understand. They have good music too! We got a frozen margarita pitcher and it was definitely a lot for two people which was nice and worth the money read more

See all

Amazing food. I recommend the RIBEYE STEAK.wonderful drinks. Music. Can accommodate six people parties or more. They do have a party area on the side. Parking area very very small- 4 cars top. read more

This is my review of Kandela, located in ozone Park Queens. I've actually been here once before. I really like the low lighting vibe and on theme decor. They play upbeat Mexican music, but it is low enough for you to have a conversation. My cousin and I went on a Monday evening, so it was kind of empty, but it did begin to pick up later in the night. They're also a lot of options on the menu. We didn't order drinks but for appetizers, we had the beef empanadas, and elite corn, which is one of my favorite Mexican dishes. The appetizers were very filling. I love tacos, but decided to do something different this time so we order chicken quesadillas, and Carnitas quesadillas, which tasted great and had a lot of meat. Overall, I would rate the experience a 9 out of 10. read more

See all

This was a great spot for a quick bite and tasty happy hour . Just a few months ago they have new staff. I'm not sure who is the management anymore, but this place is no longer what it used to be.. I referred many people here. The food is no longer good the staff is really trying. Very sad to know and see what is happening. Food, services and ambiance has become terrible. read more

Randomly picked this spot for taco Tuesday night and it was a hit. Once I walked in the ambiance was very lovely and decorative. The service was great very friendly and welcoming. Now for the food I will say these were the best tacos I've had in Ab very long while. The steak tacos the tortilla was fresh and the steak was juicy and nicely seasoned. The carnitas was also really good. Juicy tender and full of flavor. Oooouuuu and the wings a must nice coating of sauce, not over fried a split between crispy and juicy I loved it. Nice and chunky blue cheese. The drinks were also a go. I had a passion fruit margarita and a mezcal mule both were made well. Left out of there feeling really good and satisfied. I highly recommend read more

See all

Kandela is a small intimate Mexican restaurant. Friday Night they had a DJ. Food and drinks were very good. $8 Margaritas for happy hour every day. The service was good. The waitress was very attentive. read more

150-03 Restaurant Corp Dba Kandela - Mexican Near Me - Park, New York

See all

My first time here and I definitely enjoyed everything about it! I usually order an entree when I eat out but this time I decided to just get 1 steak quesadilla and my bestfriend got steak nachos with no jalapeños. I got two passion fruit frozen margaritas & she got two passion fruit margaritas both with salt on the rim. The service was quick, food came fast and the drinks were strong but not overly strong! The music was good and there were television screens everywhere which was great cause a Marvel movie was playing at the time! I would definitely suggest to come here if you're looking for a good Mexican restaurant in Queens and I would definitely like to come again and try more of their dishes! read more

See all

I'd rate Kandela three and a half stars. Kandela is a Mexican sports bar. Lots of TVs around the perimeter of the restaurant. Super easy to see a TV from anywhere inside. They had the same game on all of the TVs so I wonder if they'd be able to put on multiple channels. We shared the guacamole and chips to start. We each ordered a burrito for dinner too. I had the vegetarian whole my wife had the steak. Filling but pricey at $20+ for each burrito. Super simple draft list with three options. They had a happy hour promotion of $6 for a Pacifico which isn't the greatest bargain. Two single occupancy restrooms. Super spacious and I believe we're handicap accessible. The restaurant is located in a strip mall with a parking lot and garage. read more

I will start by saying the drinks are good. Highly recommend the strawberry mojito. Staff is extremely friendly The guac was okay. Flavor yes. Texture was similar to the one you get at Dunkin' Donuts (that's not a good thing) The chicken tacos were okay. dry not heavily seasoned. Chilaquiles with chicken and there version of scrambled eggs which clearly not scrambled. The chicken didn't have enough flavor. Not the best meal. Edible. But eh read more

See all

Came by on a Tuesday with some friends... it was my first time there. The place itself is decorated nicely and they have a really nice selection of tequilas at the bar. We were greeted and seated promptly. The restaurant was pretty busy for a Tuesday but that did not delay our service. I had a delicious spicy margarita and 2 Al pastor tacos ($3) each on Tuesdays. The sauce that came with the tacos had the perfect kick. Great food for a great price and excellent drinks! Can't wait to return! read more

150-03 Restaurant Corp Dba Kandela - Steak al Carbon - Mexican Near Me - Park, New York

See all

manager mandy is disgusting. told me and my friend off and walked away from us when we told her it is 90+ degrees in her restaurant. we have been here three times and its so f-ing hot omg. she is so nasty for not apologizing and being read more

Kandela is great - 5 stars all the way. Their staff are wonderful, and the food? ¡Increíble! Their esquites are good as is their guac, but you can get that stuff anywhere... the real standout is their tacos. $18 for three campechano tacos is more than enough for two people (this plate is piled HIGH), and they are delicious! read more

This place has the best drinks, a nice chill atmosphere and the most polite staff. I had the carne asada and it came with potatoes, rice and beans and avocado . I also ordered the elote as a side and the empanadas as the appetizer. Everything tasted delicious but the steak was a little salty. It was good just need to wash it down with a couple glasses of water. The empanadas and the elote were perfect!!! For the drink I had a coronarita and that thing hit the spot. I added passion fruit to mine and it added just the right amount of sweetness. I'll def be back to try the stuffed chicken because it looked so good in everyone else's plate. read more

See all