Review: VILLA CEMITA for Excellent Mexican Food and Drink in NYC

Villa Cemita presents wonderful South of the border menu items with a real flair. It is perfect for the East Village neighborhood and worth a trip from anywhere in the city. This authentic Mexican spot is stylish and welcoming with a colorful, vibrant décor and excellent service. It will be one of your favorite restaurants for lunch, dinner or brunch.

Villa Cemita is a true family affair. Owner, Alejandra Aco has created a delightful menu, while her son, Omar and daughter, Doreli operate the front of the house. We visited early on a Saturday evening and enjoyed a terrific meal. We also like that they have vegan, vegetarian and gluten free choices to please everyone in your party.

We have to rave about one of our favorites, their Guacamole. Served as an appetizer with chips, the dip's seasonings highlight the ripe, rich avocados. It's a perfect starter. But don't stop there. Starters also include Corn on a Cob and Jalepeno Poppers. You can also indulge in appetizers like their Empanadas with mushrooms or roasted chicken and, of course, Nachos. Try the Tacos De La Casa, three in each order, with inventive ingredients in varieties that include Carnitas, Pescado and Vegetarian.

Villa Cemita offers traditional Mexican entrees like their Mixed Fajitas, Chimichangas and Burritos. The menu is also complimented by genuine Puebla specialties like the Mole Poblano, roasted chicken prepared with 32 ingredients, served with corn tortilla and rice. We highly recommend their namesake dish, the Super Cemita Poblano, a jumbo layered sandwich that is famous in Puebla.

Dessert is a must at Villa Cemita. Tempting selections like Churros, Flan and Choco Flan are on the menu. We enjoyed the luscious, light Tres Leches cake.

Villa Cemita's beverage program is just as remarkable as their food with Red, White or Rose Sangria, and a fine selection of Spanish wines. Beer lovers will enjoy the great choices. There are classic cocktails like their Bloody Marys and Margaritas as well as completely original mixes like their Mexican Pistol and their House Tamarind Mojito. The drink selections pair wonderfully with food.

Villa Cemita gets high marks for some of the best Mexican food we have sampled in the city. It is restaurant that will take your Mexican dining experience to a new level.

You'll also like that the price point that makes it an ideal date night spot, or great for dining with friends and family. Check out their daily drink specials, served until 8:00 pm. They also have a room that's perfect for special events with its own bar. Whether you're stopping by for drinks and a small bite or for a full meal, Villa Cemita is sure to please.

Villa Cemita is located at 50 Avenue A, between 3rd and 4th Streets. Call them at 646-964-4528 or visit www.villacemita.com. They are open Mon 4pm-midnight, Tues-Sun 11am-midnight and for Brunch Sat-Sun 11am-4pm.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Villa Cemita

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