Ofrenda

As most of the city claims, “there is no good Mexican food in New York.” While I will agree that we are lacking Tex Mex’s juicy fajitas and queso, with the rise of the Empellon spots and several taco shacks, we still get some spicy, cheesy flavors. However, Ofrenda offers the closet Mexican food restaurant vibe I’ve come across. It’s casual, stress-free, not showy, and here to let you grub. The guacamole with mango is a great way to start the night. It’s creamy, sweet and awesome atop the salty and addicting homemade chips. The Crispy Chipotle Shrimp Ceviche is pretty ridiculous. Who really needs fried ceviche? This should be served at the Texas State Fair in Dallas, but yes, it was killer good. Being the seafood lover I am, I pretty much owned the Pavoneo Tequila Tiger Shrimp and Scallops -don’t miss this. Unfortunately, the yucca fries were cold and should be served at your local 7-11 instead. The side of corn was forgettable and didn’t add a spark, so don’t waste your time here. Now the innovative cocktails all sound so refreshing that it’s almost impossible to decide how you want to booze. Go for the Flor & Luna with blackberry puree or the Spicy Hibiscus Paloma. Apps are all under $10, so Ofrenda makes a great after-work spot to unwind and relax and a fun place to decompress and stay for a while on weekends. You don’t have to think twice about Ofrenda.