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A New York Times-featured newcomer to the East Village culinary scene, Populares is a dream of modern Mexican cuisine with a Manhattan spin. Equally popping up in Forbes and Eater, this haven of palatable delights will transform your night into an adventure of flavor and revelry sure to make a lasting impression.
Grab your $69 pulse (a $136 value) for a 3 Course Dinner For Two that includes 1 Appetizer, 2 Entrees, 1 Dessert, and 2 Cocktails, Glasses of Wine, or Beers.
Serving up "freshly made tacos...as available as coffee in a diner," according to The New York Times, Populares goes beyond when it comes to the contemporary culinary creations of Chef Niklas Lucich (Spice Market, Jean-Georges, Bouchon by Thomas Keller), who curated the menu. His inventive riffs and strict adherence to freshness & quality ingredients sets this gem apart from the rest, especially when you add in an impressive drinks program.
Think sips like the Tamarindo Reyes repping Yola mezcal, Ancho Reyes, tamarind, lime, and agave, or a bold red wine, all of which heighten plates of refreshing, tangy Lobster Aguachile to start, followed by Grilled Skirt Steak adorned with patatas bravas and salsa verde, or the famed Branzino, caught fresh daily.
A sweet dessert seals the deal as you order a few more margaritas and consider this your new favorite...
At Populares, tradition intersects with the contemporary as you immerse yourself in a stunning scene of social buzz, succulent fare, and sensational drinks. On OpenTable's list of the "Best Modern Latin American Restaurants" in the city, Populares showcases the beloved flavors of Mexican cuisine but also transports you to a vibrant & inviting escape that captures the essence of both Mexico and the East Village.
The interiors are inherently full of life, nodding to charming taquerias while creating a boutique atmosphere that's equally convivial and chic. The air is brimming with epicurean bliss, paying tribute to the vibrancy of Mexico while tapping into the unbeatable energy of the city it calls home.
Delight in a menu curated by Chef Niklas Lucich, whose training at hotspots like Spice Market and alongside icons like Jean-Georges and Thomas Keller) allow him the creativity & exquisite execution of recipes that give Mexican presentations a nouveau twist.
Complementing your feast will be expertly crafted swigs overseen by acclaimed Mexican mixologist, Fernando Lozano. Expect an array of handcrafted cocktails, artisanal spirits, and curated wine. Indulge in classic margaritas with a twist, mezcal-infused concoctions, and more that celebrates Mexico's rich heritage & iconic libations.
As you kick off with starters like Grilled Octopus cooked to tender perfection, swoon as you sip drinks to the tune of a Spicy or Hibiscus Margaritas, not to mention the Amantes Negroni (Mezcal Amantes Reposado, Roma bitters, Martini Rosso, palo santo). Cheers!
Next up, the Shrimp Fajitas are divine. Other standouts include the sublime Duck Leg, not to mention the Trio Fajitas with a triple-treat of proteins to hit the spot, as well as the Mezcal Chicken, marinated in a smoky, tangy concoction and grilled to juicy bliss. Of course, save room for dessert!
Trust us - dinner at Populares is as dreamy as it sounds...
All selections will be made from the restaurant's full dinner menu.
Your $69 3 Course Dinner for Two (a $136 Value) Includes:
Populares earns a shining 4.5 stars from 140+ reviews on Google including:
"This restaurant is one of my favorite restaurants to go when I'm craving from Spanish/Mexican food. The service is good and the waiters are very friendly. It's my second time here and it has been nothing but wonderful experience! Love love!"
"Populares is delightful! The vibe at Populares is wonderful. Delicious. The food was not only beautifully plated, but it was also incredibly flavorful. The drinks were equally impressive. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with my experience at Populares. The space has been wonderfully reimagined, the service was top-notch, and the food and drinks were truly outstanding. I will certainly be returning. Populares is a hidden gem in Alphabet City that is well worth a visit."
"My favorite place. Best drinks in New York City. The food smells amazing and the staff are so friendly."
Populares' Website | Google Reviews
May purchase as many vouchers as you like for personal use or for gifting.
Multiple vouchers may be combined for larger groups.
Tax & tip not included; reservations required.
Additional cost added for the difference of higher priced menu items.
Expires on Friday May 30, 2025.