Gordo's Cantina: vibrant mexican flavors in bushwick brooklyn

Name: Gordo's Cantina
Address: 140 St Nicholas Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA, New York, 11237, US
Telephone: (917) 947-9208
Price range: $$

Nestled in the heart of Bushwick, Brooklyn, Gordo's Cantina serves up an irresistible slice of Mexico with hearty, authentic dishes and a laid-back vibe. This vibrant Mexican restaurant on St Nicholas Avenue is a hotspot for foodies craving bold flavors and generous portions. Whether you're a local or a traveler exploring New York City's thriving food scene, Gordo's offers a welcoming atmosphere with the bonus of cozy outdoor seating to soak up the lively neighborhood energy.

menu highlights and signature dishes

Gordo's Cantina dazzles with its flavorful Mexican staples, loved by both regulars and newcomers. Standout offerings include the Carnitas Quesadilla and Carnitas Tacos, praised for their rich, savory taste and satisfying portions. Adventurous diners swear by the El Chapo bacon-wrapped hot dog — a unique fusion twist that’s as indulgent as it is delicious. For those seeking refreshing beverages, the passion fruit margarita and expertly crafted micheladas are crowd favorites, perfectly complementing the menu.

vegetarian and vegan options

Gordo's Cantina is committed to inclusivity with a selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes that don’t compromise on flavor. Popular plant-based choices include the Rajas Quesadilla and Vegan Al Pastor Tacos, which showcase fresh ingredients and the same bold Mexican seasoning that the restaurant is known for. This makes Gordo's a welcoming spot for diverse dietary preferences, perfect for groups or solo diners.

atmosphere and experience

Gordo's Cantina is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community favorite known for its friendly, attentive staff and vibrant atmosphere. Guests appreciate the laid-back environment paired with the upbeat energy of Bushwick’s eclectic neighborhood. The outdoor seating area offers a great place to enjoy a sunny afternoon or a casual evening with friends. Whether you're stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the service is quick and the staff’s warm hospitality shines through.

What are the most popular dishes at Gordo's Cantina? Customers frequently recommend the Carnitas Quesadilla, Carnitas Tacos, and the El Chapo bacon-wrapped hot dog.
Does Gordo's Cantina offer vegetarian or vegan options? Yes, the restaurant provides vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including the Rajas Quesadilla and Vegan Al Pastor Tacos.
Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, Gordo's Cantina offers cozy outdoor seating for guests to enjoy their meals.
Do they accept reservations? No, the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.
What are the operating hours? The restaurant is open Monday to Thursday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

community vibes and sentiment

Positive community feedback highlights Gordo's Cantina for its authentic Mexican flavors, generous portions, and the genuinely friendly staff. The lively atmosphere and outdoor seating area make it a beloved gathering spot in Bushwick, where guests feel like part of a warm, flavorful neighborhood tradition.

The vibrant journey of gordo's cantina in new york city.

Nestled in the heart of Bushwick, Brooklyn, Gordo's Cantina has evolved from a lively pop-up to a beloved destination for authentic Mexican street food. Since its inception in 2013, this eatery has been synonymous with bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Central Mexican cuisine.

early beginnings and pop-up success

Gordo's Cantina first appeared in 2013 as a pop-up at Bar9, Hell's Kitchen, where it quickly gained attention with unique offerings like the El Chapo bacon-wrapped hot dog. This inventive approach to traditional Mexican street food laid the foundation for its growing popularity among food enthusiasts and festival-goers.

establishing roots: long island city

In 2015, Gordo's Cantina transitioned from its pop-up origins to open its first brick-and-mortar location in Long Island City, Queens. This milestone allowed the cantina to expand its menu and audience while maintaining the dedication to authentic, hearty Mexican flavors that had won over its early fans.

bushwick era: blending tradition and community

Relocating to Bushwick, Brooklyn in December 2019, Gordo's Cantina embraced a neighborhood known for its vibrant arts and culinary culture. Here, the cantina continues to celebrate Central Mexican cuisine through an inviting menu featuring carnitas tacos, grilled corn on a stick, and other traditional snacks, attracting locals and travelers alike.

key milestones in gordo's cantina history

2013: Gordo's Cantina started as a pop-up at Bar9 in Hell's Kitchen, featuring creative dishes like the El Chapo bacon-wrapped hot dog.
2015: The first permanent restaurant opened in Long Island City, Queens, marking a new chapter for the brand.
2019: Relocation to Bushwick, Brooklyn, where the cantina continues to delight visitors with traditional Mexican dishes and a lively atmosphere.

Discover Gordo's Cantina in Bushwick Brooklyn New York City Mexican Restaurant Experience

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, Gordo's Cantina offers a lively and authentic Mexican dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors. Known for its hearty Mexican snacks like carnitas tacos and grilled corn on a stick, this laid-back spot invites you to indulge in generous portion sizes of flavorful dishes crafted with care.

Highlights of Gordo's Cantina

Gordo's Cantina shines with its authentic Mexican cuisine that delights food enthusiasts seeking bold and vibrant flavors. The restaurant's friendly and attentive staff enhance the welcoming atmosphere, making every visit a memorable one. Outdoor seating is a notable feature, perfect for enjoying sunny days or warm evenings while savoring delicious drinks and meals.

Authentic Mexican cuisine that truly captures traditional flavors and spices.
Generous portion sizes that leave you satisfied and offer great value for money.
Friendly and attentive staff who create a warm and engaging dining environment.
Vibrant atmosphere perfect for casual gatherings and lively evenings.
Outdoor seating available making it an ideal spot for fresh air dining in Brooklyn.

Considerations Before Visiting

While Gordo's Cantina excels in many areas, there are a couple of factors to keep in mind. The restaurant does not accept reservations, which means during peak hours it can become quite busy and seating might require a wait. This bustling vibe, however, is also part of its charm, reflecting its popularity and community appeal.

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