New York City is a melting pot of diverse flavors, and when it comes to nachos, the options are as varied as the city itself. From Tex-Mex-style appetizers to authentic Cuban cuisine, NYC’s nacho scene is unparalleled. We’ve curated a list of the best nacho spots in the city to satisfy any craving for the dish.
See More: The 8 Best Breakfast Burritos In NYC
View this post on Instagram
204 W 55th St. / 646.590.2034 / Website
Nestled in the heart of Midtown, this speakeasy cocktail bar brings the allure and excitement of New York’s early twentieth-century illicit antics to life. Known for its craft cocktails and late-night bites, it offers a menu that’s as storied as its ambiance. The BBQ brisket nachos feature a 12-hour smoked brisket smothered in jack cheese, cello radish, black beans and shaved jalapenos. This celebrated bar creates an unforgettable atmosphere for those seeking a taste of history alongside crafted cocktails.
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations / Website
Calexico, named after the border town between California and Mexico, is a family-run business founded by three Calexico natives. Although impressed by the city’s diverse culinary scene upon moving to NYC, they craved a taste of home. Thus, Calexico was born, initially set up as a street cart in Soho, selling tacos and burritos. Today, the multi-restaurant destination features an extensive menu, with nachos at the top.
View this post on Instagram
225 5th Ave. / 212.333.2222 / Website
Mexicue masterfully blends the art of fine dining with a simple love of street food. The famed taco shop—whose story began on wheels—prides itself on dishes like barbeque beets, smoked short rib tacos and of course, poblano and chipotle cashew nachos. The now stationery spot calls a copper-detailed space on Fifth Avenue home, serving flavorful Mexican food on the daily.
View this post on Instagram
408 E 73rd St. / 212.600.2102 / Website
“To make everyone feel like they are on a Mexican vacation” is the mantra at Chela, an expressively authentic restaurant. Nachos feature crispy corn tortilla chips, chihuahua cheese, cream, jalapeno, black beans, queso fresco and pico de gallo. Chela’s fresh perspective on traditional Mexican cuisine is ideal for anyone looking to satisfy even the most demanding craving.
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations / Website
Chef Luis Arce Mota showcases his Mexican roots and classical French culinary training at La Contenta. His appreciation for family cooking and tradition inspires each dish at the intimate Lower East Side bistro. Mixologist Alex Valencia joins Chef Luis on the journey to create a blended culinary experience in offering a robust cocktail program highlighting agave spirits. Together, they craft a seamless fusion of flavors, making La Contenta a destination for those seeking a distinctive dining experience.
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations / Website
Craving a true taste of Texas right in NYC? Hill Country has you covered. The smoked low and slow over Texas-style barbeque provides the perfect finishing touch to homestyle nachos. The ambiance and practice of Southern hospitality add to the experience as the space doubles as a live music venue. At Hill Country, guests find a unique blend of food and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for BBQ lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
View this post on Instagram
207 W 14th St. / 212.858.5001 / Website
In the heart of Havana sits the ice cream parlor Coppelia, a beloved gathering spot and desert destination. Chef Julian Medina and Louis Skibar brought Coppelia to NYC and added a twist, opening a Latin diner infused with Cuban essence. The Cuban Coppelia’s inspiration runs through the interior of the restaurant in pastel-colored walls, counter service and soda fountain, all the while the menu highlights strictly Cuban flavors in dishes such as empanadas, flautas, nachos and a Frita Cubana Burger. This vibrant eatery seamlessly blends the spirit of Havana with the energy of New York, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations / Website
Taqueria Diana embodies the essence of “fresh” in every way of the word. Each day, chefs prepare tortillas sourced directly from Tortilleria Nixtamal, pressing and cooking them for every taco. The salsas, made from only the finest ingredients, add an extra layer of flavor to the nachos. Diners can choose from a varied meat menu, including Pollo, Al Pastor, Carnitas, and Carne Asada to top off the shared plate. Taqueria Diana’s commitment to quality ensures only the best for every nacho connoisseur.
Looking for an appetizer that rivals your entrée? Level up the fan-favorite canapé with these New York City nachos.
Photography by: mitchellpictures / Getty Images
