This is a small location, if you are looking just to visit a small bar after work it will work. I had the Classic Margarita and it was well made. That's why I gave the spot two stars. Not very appealing to the eye from outside. Seating very limited and good was very basic. Unfortunately wasn't a spot I would recommend. read more

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Ambiance left much to be desired. Margs and tacos were OK. Server was very kind and attentive though.

Such great food!! We went for my birthday, and had tons of food. Everything was delicious. The Queso Fundido was the best in ever had. Very, very nice service! The place is small and tight, but as a New Yorker, that's never proven to be an issue once the food comes. We don't mind. It's cozy! read more

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La Contenta is second to none and I mean it. It's an honor and a pleasure to give this restaurant five stars. Right off the top, it's a small place but don't get it twisted, it's very popular and for good reason. The music and staff was pitch perfect. I found the vibe and energy of the restaurant to be very festive and fun. I arrived a bit earlier then my friend but they still sat me and that's highly unusual. I was prepared to either have a drink at the bar or wait outside. So I was seated and the lovely waitress promptly served me the freshly made chips and salsa. I order a drink off their drink menu and I have to tell you, the bartenders at La Contenta really know how to make a drink. Between my friend and I, we tried four drinks off the menu and each one was amazing. For dinner, I order their shrimp enchilada with the red sauce and grilled brussel sprouts. My goodness what a meal. I couldn't finish it all. La Contenta is definitely one of those restaurant that you would pass and say, wow, I'd like to try that place out one day. Make that one day - today and get your life. You won't be disappointed. read more

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Great traditional Mexican food, incredible margs, very affordable, one of my top 10 Mexican spots in the city

Birthday weekend - see my review of Au Zaatar, which was on a Thursday evening. On the following Saturday, we took a long walk down to Economy Candy on Rivington and then to the Essex Market, and by the time we took that walk and did some shopping, we were hungry for an early dinner. Found La Contenta on Yelp and it was so nearby; took the walk and liked what we saw, got a table immediately, and enjoyed! We started with the guacamole (of course) - no fancy-schmancy made-at-the-table overpriced guac, but good straightforward guac and chips at a reasonable price! Yum! Hubby ordered the enchiladas de camarones and was very pleased. They weren't drowned in cheese, just enough to taste good. I ordered the pollo mole poblano, something I haven't had in years! It was a good-sized half chicken breast with an absolutely excellent brown mole sauce. I could've licked the plate (but I have some table manners and refrained, lol)! We shared a michelada de tamarind (yeah, we're lightweights in the drinking department) and that was something different; I liked it more than he did, but I definitely liked it! Chalk up a second really good birthday dinner! read more

So glad I found this gem! I've been craving fried fish tacos and this place hits the spot! The fish was perfectly battered and fried. The sauce on the fish was fabulous and so glad it came with rice and beans! Great portion size and filling. They also give free chips and salsa! Will for sure come again and highly recommend those who are craving fish tacos! read more

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Stumbled into this place for a late lunch and was pleasantly surprised with the quality of both food and drinks! The cocktails are a little on the pricier side but we're absolutely refreshing and delicious. The taco platter was very filling and all the ingredients felt fresh. The sauces and accompaniments were particularly well done. read more

I went here with a group of friends and was disappointed :( I got the quesabirria and the portion size was small and sad. It was dry which was surprising for it being birria? It also lacked flavor. read more

I had the nachos and fish tacos and both were amazing. I would highly recommend both dishes. I split the nachos with someone and I had both fish tacos and it was very filling. I also had a passion fruit drink with rum and that was delicious. I went on a Monday and it was pretty busy, we ended up sitting at the bar which was fine. The place is a bit small so it gets crowded if you want a table even on a Monday night I'd recommend reservations. read more

- Small restaurant with cute decorations. They really put a lot of thought into creating a particular atmosphere - The food was REALLY good - The portion sizes are big so even one appetizer per person can fill you up - Service was lacking. We sat down and it took a while for them to give us the menus. We ordered drinks and food at the same time yet it took 30min just for the drinks to come out. - The food took another 10min - Don't come here if you're hungry and looking to get your food right away. - When we were ready to get the check, we couldn't find someone available to help us. It felt like we spent most of our time trying to get someone's attention. - Make sure to sit at the bar so you can be looked after better read more

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Very adorable hole in the wall looking place. Food was unreal, service was great and the place (inside and outside) was vibing. We sat outside since the weather was beautiful in the evening. Restaurant took many precautions for COVID which was comforting. Never had nachos served the way they were here - round plate, every chip had all condiments on it - you didn't have to fish around for stuff and break the chips while dipping. Enchiladas are my go to at most Mexican places. I love the dish and love to compare flavors. I was a happy camper on these ones. My husband had the branzino which he also loved. I recommend all three dishes. read more

La Contenta Les - MUST have nachos. Too gorgeous to eat but must devour! - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Cute and welcoming. Margarita was fantastic, and the food was amazing. I had the fish tacos and they were perfection. We will definitely be back! read more

This little restaurant is a jewel! Much more fun than fancier places uptown! It has a cool Mexican vibe for an intimate evening weeknights, or to get your party going on weekends. We loved the food!! (We had chorizo nachos, chicken quesadillas, shrimp tacos and queso! ) --but the bartender, Alejandro, made our night! He offers private Mexican bartending lessons at the bar that we tried our second time there and can't recommend enough! $200 for a couple included all our food, a more than two hour tequila tasting/ lesson, and a chance to make our own favorite cocktail at the bar! (We chose an espresso martini and a maruerita. ) you can phone the restaurant for reservations. A truly unique and fun NYC experience! Ask to see the authentic speak easy downstairs before you leave for the night too! read more

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This is my go-to spot. Service is always friendly and welcoming. Drinks are amazing. And you have to try their enchiladas de mole. read more

La Contenta Les - Enchiladas en Mole Poblano - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Getting ready to leave the city. Used Yelp to find Tacos. Led me here based on photos and reviews. Arrived and chose to sit at the bar as opposed to the seat we were offered. We would've been entirely too close to the other guest and squeezed into a corner. Tight spot equals not a good space to enjoy a meal. . Restaurant is quite tiny also and she warned that the inside was hot. She didn't lie but it was tolerable for me. Tepache Apache - Ordered a drink made with fermented pineapple rind and pineapple purée. It was yummy and strong. Chips and Salsa - Chips thicker than I'm used too for sure. Salsa also different. It was smooth and had creamy notes and undertones of pinto beans. I wanted to ask to see if I was right but the language barrier prevented it. Guacamole - Presented beautifully but lacked seasoning/flavor for me. It needed more lime and s&p. Catfish Tacos - The fish was fried perfectly and the slaw and sauces were delicious together. A good three bites and it was demolished. Birria Taco - I assumed it was the Birria Birria tacos and it was not. Bummer. They were still quite delicious though. The beef was super tender and flavorful and the sauce on top was spiccccccccy but tolerable for me. I definitely return and try something on the entree side of the menu next time. read more

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A cozy yet casual spot with amazing tacos. Came here after I went climbing. Also the cocktails are amazing.

wow where do I even start? My host, who happens to also turn out to be the waitress, ushered us in immediately as soon as my other party got here. Granted the restaurant was smaller than pictured on Yelp, but that wasn't an issue for us. The decor was cute and quirky, and the bartenders really did go in and put their blood sweat and tears into making my drink tasty. I'm not even going to lie, I felt like I was away in Mexico for a sheer bliss for 30 minutes My friend had ordered an entrée and dessert all in one. When I asked why he had done so, he said he could not resist waiting for dessert when it already had sounded so delicious the minute he landed his eyes on it, LOL. Needless to say we scarfed down everything we ordered faster than the time it took to be made. Our hostess/Waze waitress Norma, had been exceptional and I sincerely hope she finds a place in life where she can be appreciated or recognized for her high ambition and diligence. I did not anticipate this kind of elevated experience from such a small restaurant, let alone during such a difficult period such as modern day Great Depression. My experience had surpassed my expectations far beyond anything else. I definitely have to come back, and support a small business. And please patrons, if you feel like the service was just, do your part in tipping considerable/considerate amount. My friend and I agreed this place was definitely worth tipping over 20%. Mind you, I never tip over 15% anywhere, given the stingy person that I naturally am. But I found it worth it for La Contenta read more

La Contenta Les - sidewalk outside La Contenta Margarita - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Cute but tiny Mexican restaurant on the LES notable for its super affordable happy hour with both drinks and food on the menu. It's a little pricey not on happy hour - I didn't look at a food menu, but the cocktails are $15-$16 and the micheladas (which I had) are $9 during regular hours. Now...the happy hour is at wacky times. I thought it went from 4-7, so I rushed out of work a little early to make it there by 6:15 on a Thursday only to find out that the happy hour ends at 6 Thursday through Saturday. My fault, so not not penalizing La Contenta for not checking their hours closely enough, but probably wouldn't have gone if I had known because again, it's pricey during normal times. Had an al pastor michelada ($9) which was good but a little heavy. Part of why I like micheladas is because they're very refreshing and this was, I don't know, too sweet and syrupy for my taste? One was great, but I wasn't too keen on having another. They have a few on the menu though, so maybe I picked wrong. They also give you the full beer, which is awesome. Definitely planning on coming back during happy hour but would probably pass otherwise. read more

First of all the hosts told us we had one hour to use the table because she had reservations waiting before even introducing us to a table Second - the app were cold no favor Third - the main dish came out so fast I thought it was reheated when I tell you it had NO FAVOR AT ALL! The drinks were good! Very tasty! We walked out as soon as I tasted my chicken mole it was under cooked no favor & disgusting this was suppose to be my birthday dinner what a disappointment I really went off these reviews ! They have to be fake because there's definitely better Mexican food than this no favor not cooked correctly . Don't go here if you want real Mexican but If you want Mediocre Mexican than go for it ! read more

Food amazing Service amazing except one server who couldn't crack a smile and was flat. But we will be back. read more

wonderful food and good ambiance, service was also very good. absolutely love this place, I will be coming back.

A small little spot on the corner of Delancey, literally a hole in the wall! They did have outdoor dining with heating lamps hanging from the top, but it honestly was still freezing cold (it was like 37 degrees that night). Our waitress was super friendly and popped back in to check up on us so frequently! I've been here before for the cocktails, but it was my first time trying their tacos and enchiladas. Each taco order comes with 2 tacos, so my friend and I ordered the Tacos de Pescada -$14 (catfish tacos) to share and we each got the Enchiladas de Camaron - $22 (shrimp). We thought the catfish tacos were on the plainer side...kind of disappointing. It didn't feel like it had enough sauce or toppings. Just a fried catfish on a dry taco shell. On the other hand, the enchiladas were wayyy better. It was a perfect serving size for one person, two skinny enchiladas and a good portion of rice & beans. It's a very filling plate tho! For cocktails we got El Mixteco ($14), Pulque de Guayaba ($14), and the Oaxaca Express ($14). I was expecting the Mixteco to be sweet, but it had a very Smokey aftertaste to it. Oaxaca was on the bitter Smokey side too, and a little spicy and cucumbery. The Guayaba was the sweetest out of the three and probably my favorite. read more

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Decided to eat here impromptu after a change of plans, and were lucky to have chosen this place! Although it was a Thursday evening, it was not crowded and the service was friendly. The inside was small yet nice, and the outside seemed to be heated dining. We started out with chips and salsa, which tasted more like chips and hot sauce, but was very good nonetheless. For the table, we shared the nachos (the star of the show), the shrimp enchiladas (close second), and the quesadilla which lacked some flavor other than cheese, and would probably not get again. The tortilla chips were homemade, the nachos toppings were all fresh and evenly spread, and the enchilada sauce had a good spice to it which enhanced the flavor. Overall, enjoyed the food very much and will be back to try the tacos! read more

La Contenta Les - Chips & Salsa - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Came here on a Saturday, very cool atmosphere. Ordered the steak tacos (my favorite) and fish tacos. For drinks we tried the Oaxaca express and the el mixteco margaritas as recommended by the waiter. El mixteco did not disappoint. It was sweet and strong at the same time. This is a very casual place. This recommended for small groups and a quick bite. read more

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Such a great happy hour! I got the Mayan cocktail and it was delicious- highly recommend! Also for the carne asada tacos- so much meat and cooked perfectly! It was actually a beautiful medium-cook on it which I haven't seen in most tacos before and it made it super tasty. Will definitely be coming back! read more

La Contenta Les - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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We went here for brunch and it was great! I'd like to come back for dinner to try different drinks, the ones we had at brunch were delicious. The micheladas were amazing. The food was also great, particularly the huevos rancheros. They have nice outdoor seating that wasn't cramped. Overall a great place with great service! read more

What a small space with some good food!! And the drinks were even better. Although it's very tight inside. Not that many tables. Very small space they make it work! Food was tasty. They never asked us if we wanted the sauce that came on the fish tacos... which we found to be a little strange. Good thing it wasn't bad tasting. Happy to have stopped in for the experience. read more

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Love the breakfast there and taste really good. The menu is fantastic and has so many great options too. I like the Hanger steak and Tacos which taste really good and very flavorful. Other food is worth to try too. Fantastic menu. Will dine here again. read more

Setting. We sat out doors. Tables are kinda close together. Not bad! Food. Enchiladas de camarón. Beans and enchiladas were good. Rice was okay. Chicken mole, the chicken was tender. The mole went very well with the rice and plantains, mole with chicken may be an acquired taste. Michelada de tamarindo was perfect! Food overall was 3.5/5 Service: 5/5. Super friendly Cost. Appetizers are about $15, Entrees are about $22, cocktails run $9-15. read more

La Contenta Les - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Came through in a great big rush while running late to a friends show nearby and the staff were great about feeding us in a hurry (even still bringing out complimentary chips). The tacos come two to an order. The carnitas were very tender, and while the menu warns the serrano salsa they are served with is very spicy I didn't think it was spicy at all, just flavorful. The fried fish tacos were perfectly crispy, I do think there were too many soft ingredients though (aioli drizzle, avocado sauce, AND sour cream - the slaw was the only crunch and it could have used more of that), but overall were delicious and I would order everything again. read more

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I had wanted to eat here for a while so when I finally got to go I was really exited. It's super small and narrow but that's not a negative. I love the intimacy. But it is not family/kid friendly nor good for groups. The drinks were good and strong (which is also good). The chicken was moist and the Brussel sprouts were awesome. They were a great side for $5. Priced accordingly with the area. Long waits if you don't have a reservation and it's super hard to snag a seat at the bar. If you come on an off time or maybe just for drinks it might be less crowded. read more

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Came here for dinner on a Thursday night with my cousin. It's conveniently located off the Delancey train station. We got the queso fundido as an appetizer- yum, yum! I ordered the motezuma drink (I'm a passion fruit fan). It was a tasty, fruity drink. We ordered the fish tacos and carne asada tacos. The fish tacos were a little spicy for me but we still ate them up! The service was very good as well. It's a cute restaurant but very tiny. They should totally think about expanding! read more

La Contenta Les - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Excellent bartender, watermelon jalapeno margarita was delicious! Happy hour nachos are a must. Small spot, worth the wait.

Coming here on Cinco de Mayo badddd idea , place is small which doesn't help but we figured whatever since we were able to sit & our wait time wasn't long because our party was available they won't sit u w out the whole party there since it is first come first serve. First , jammed packed of course , no happy hour specials strike one , waiter looked like he was on speed- too rushed , strike two & finally cocktails were $17 wtf ?? Clearly they jackeddd their prices if not just for the day maybe ? Not sure but way way too much for cocktails! Entrees were about $24-30 per plate ? Like dammm what are they serving! Drinks we tried the Cinco del mayo special , only reason for my two stars , drink was good & strong we also got an order of the guacamole good but lord was it tiny , not even enough chips for the amount of guacamole they give u we had to ask for extra chips. This was not a good experience , we couldn't even take our time to order waiter was like we are super busy everything must be ordered at once .. lord!! Not a fan of being rushed I get the day , I get they busy ... but for Mexican food them prices are ridiculous not sure I would return!! read more

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I never miss a chance to eat here. Since I left NYC 4 years ago it is my first stop when I return and I am NEVER disappointed! The food vibe and service are awesome! I prefer the Norfolk street location! read more

This place is a teeny tiny little bar! And it has the reputation of being incredible. When I had to kill some time before heading to the Metrograph one evening I made a special trip to La Contenta. I have weaknesses and avocados and margaritas are on the list. Oooohh! Who doesn't love happy hours. Am I right? I got here just in time to put in my order. And because I was flying solo I also managed to get the last spot at the bar. I could have easily picked the classic but this time I was feeling adventurous. Corn purée, you say? Yes, I think I will go for the "Mayan"! It had more of an earthy flavor and a hint of sweet. The rim of the glass was covered in Tajin. I licked it all up. All the flavors worked so well. How is this the only place that has caught on to this mix. And since I was feeling peckish then I also got the nachos. I had no idea the chips would be placed in the perfect formation with all the little points sticking out on the plate. This little attention to detail allowed the chips to maintain some crunch. Also the poblano cheese sauce was insane! Then there was black beans, pico de gallo and then covered in melty cheese. I was a happy camper. I was noshing and the bar cleared up. The bartender still checked in on me one more time to make sure I didn't need anything else before happy hour ended. This was very sweet. Since this place is so tiny, I must venue suggest coming after happy hour. You may pay some more but the food and drinks are on point. I'm tempted to come for brunch. There's a comfort and change when you get authentic Mexican food. This place is tiny but worth the wait! I also love the positive signs in the bathroom "You Look Great" and "Te Ves Excelente!" read more

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Great food! I had the ceviche tostada. It was the right amount of potion for me. The fish was fresh and it had spicy kick to it. The place is lively with music playing. Looks like a lot of locals hang out. Go check it out! read more

The food and service are amazing, and I have come here quite a few times.. but giving it 3 stars because as soon as we paid the bill we were asked to give up the table because it was needed. There were 3 other empty tables and we weren't even finished with our cocktails and no-one was waiting to be seated.. that was very disheartening and disappointing. It certainly left a bad taste in my mouth. read more

Came here with a friend for early dinner. We both had the chicken enchiladas. Honestly the best enchiladas I ever had! I could eat that every week. Also had a pineapple mocktail. Really good! I should've added rum. Only issues we had is the fast cars going by, the guy that was high walking back and forth, and the strong ammonia or bleach the workers used while cleaning the area. Searing inside is tight so maybe hard to have private convos. read more