Javelina

Met a few friends for Sunday brunch here! They do have a bottomless brunch option if you’re into that. We didn’t get it, but their mimosas were so good. All of us loveedddd our meals. I got the stacked brisket enchilada and it was soooo good. The brisket was cooked perfectly and the rice and beans on the side were yum too. I’d deff come back again for some Tex Mex goodness!

A buzzy UES gem that feeds the soul if you’re ever craving Tex-Mex in the city. My GF is from Austin, so she doesn’t play with her Tex-Mex. If she likes it, that’s all you need to know about Javelina. The bevy of Margarita offerings scared me a bit, especially being able to have them frozen, but they were delicious. I ordered the Habanero and Peach with the Mezcal floater (a punchy marg to say the least) and my GF had a skinny marg. In her words “this is one of the best skinny margs I’ve had in the city”. More high praise- she’s had a lot of them. The atmosphere was lively on a Thursday night and the decour was inviting without being kitschy (like so many Tex-Mex locations lean into). A diverse crowd, leaning towards mid-late 20s/early 30s, you could tell everyone was having a good time.

Javelina is great. I came in for a drink, and was pleasantly surprised with their margarita selections. They are very different (for example avocado cilantro and cucumber mezcal) and taste phenomenal! My waitress was Patty and she was amazing. Also Olivia the manager is GREAT, she’s done such a great job managing the restaurant and it was so good to see her yesterday. I will be back, next time for food and drinks.

As a native Texan who knows the 100+ differences between Mexican food and Tex-Mex …. I’ve found a legit Tex-Mex. Where to start? Unlimited chips and salsa that’s not greasy and salsa is fresh (it would be incredible if heated - I will ask them to microwave it for me next time.) 😇 The queso (white) is exactly how it’s supposed to be. Same with the cheese and onion enchiladas. Perfect. Refried beans. Perfect. The waitstaff is also Texan so the hospitality is exactly as you’d expect expect (no offense New Yorkers). Purposeful energy and happily serving their guests. Relaxed fun vibe with good music. I will be back often. 🎉

I was walking by when this place caught my eye. The server was exceptionally kind and welcoming, which I especially appreciated as a deaf customer. I decided to try the steak quesadilla, having read favorable reviews, and it was just as good as advertised. The frozen margaritas were strong but delicious. This spot is definitely a great choice for brunch or a fun girls' outing.