Aldama

"Fueled by mezcal and the thump of reggaeton from a live DJ, Aldama is the closest thing Brooklyn has to the late-night restaurants and bars of Mexico City. Make a reservation for dinner — when dutifully constructed tacos al pastor and plates of vegan mole shine — or arrive later at night on weekends, when bartenders addle customers with frozen cocktails and small cups of tequila. The spot comes from owner Chris Reyes and chef Gerardo Alcaraz." - Robert Sietsema

"Dining in New York City recently, I’ve encountered these glasses at Aldama..." - Bettina Makalintal

"If you'd rather be in Mexico City right now, Aldama in Williamsburg should be at the top of your personal drinking Hit List. In addition to a bar stocked with craft tequila and mezcal (with daily Happy Hour specials from 5-7pm), they serve dishes like tostadas and yellowtail ceviche. Plus, their basement-level room has chic bar stools woven like wicker baskets. If you hang out long enough, you and your date might even be able to enjoy a late-night DJ set." - will hartman, bryan kim, willa moore, neha talreja

"With Aldama, Christopher Reyes and Gerardo Alcaraz have given New York one of its most ambitious new guard Mexican restaurants. Swing by the electrically charged bar room, or book a table for al pastor tacos with pineapple-serrano gel, sliced duck breast on heirloom tlacoyos, and a stunner of a vegan mole with black truffles and fragrant corn tortillas. Or heck, just pop in for a few shots of mezcal and for the bumping soundtrack." - Luke Fortney, Eater Staff

"Restaurateur Christopher Reyes and Chef Gerardo Alcaraz have brought the music, mezcal and warm spirit of Mexico to Brooklyn. After just one step inside, it's clear they've hit the mark. The stylish space feels boho chic courtesy of a poured concrete bar with woven-seat bar stools, imported wood panels, textiles and ceramics; and a breezy outdoor space adds to the vibe. The cooking here also delivers, reflecting deep (and delicious) ties to Mexico with dishes that are creatively rendered. From sope de chistorra at brunch to the likes of tacos de canasta, stuffed with a crushed potato and bean filling, to mole negro that happens to be vegan, Aldama is serving up some seriously modern Mexican fare." - Michelin Inspector