Chavela's

"Chavela’s serves some very good Mexican food, and it’s also one of the most fun restaurants in Crown Heights for hanging out with a group. As a result, the waits at this walk-in-only spot on Franklin Avenue can be pretty long. But they’re worth it, because once you get a table in what feels like someone’s very large and charming apartment, you’re going to want to hang out for the rest of the night. Start with the really good queso fundido with chorizo, and then fill your table with tacos and share plates like the chicken in a pool of mole, or the chile relleno. No matter what you get to eat, make sure to order some draft margaritas, too - they’re discounted during Happy Hour (weekdays until 7pm). Food Rundown Guacamole Obviously, you want some on your table. Have you ever said no to guacamole? Who are you? Queso Fundido Hot melted cheese, Poblano peppers, black beans, a side of warm tortillas...this is what Mexico does best. It’s what Chavela’s does best too. A must order. Sopa de Tortilla An excellent example of tortilla soup. Not great for sharing, but sometimes it’s OK to be selfish. This is one of those times. Pescado Tacos The only tacos you should be eating at Chavela’s. These fish tacos are excellent. Chile Relleno A big Poblano pepper, stuffed with queso fresco. This is one of our favorite things to eat here/at any Mexican restaurant. Huevos Rancheros Simple. Delicious. Eggs and tortillas with refried beans. A strong brunch order to accompany your third margarita. Chilaquiles See, huevos rancheros, but with simmered tortilla chips and salsa verde or mole on top. I go with the tangy salsa verde, because it’s Sunday and I’m feeling lively. Results may vary." - Chris Stang

"Bringing authentic Mexican food to the neighborhood back in 2007, Chef Arturo Leonar has made Chavelas a cornerstone of Crown Heights eateries due to its spectacular Latino inspired dishes and cocktails. From the tacos to the enchiladas, you really can't go wrong with just about anything. If you really want to step it up, make sure you check out their incredible brunch options on the weekends. This place can get pretty slammed, so make sure to get in early if you don't want to wait." - Kyle & Annie Turman

"Your roommate wants to check out a new place where the food comes on custom-made ceramic plates that were originally designed for dolls, but you want to eat a portion of food that won’t make you zone out for the next hour while thinking about which pizza place to stop by on your way home. Go to Chavela’s. This neighborhood spot in Prospect Heights is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in the city, and you can get some excellent tacos, enchiladas, or a “Plato Don,” which comes with your choice of meat and several other things like rice, beans, and tortillas." - bryan kim

"Ordering guacamole may be a reflex for many, but at Chavela’s, what lands on the table is far from the norm. Mexico City native Chef Arturo Leonar is the brains behind this exceptional riff, which mixes smoked trout, pico de gallo and morita chile salsa to thrilling effect. His creativity even extends to other dishes, like taquitos de cangrego with sweet crabmeat and spicy salsa verde, as well as handmade quesadillas stuffed with huitlacoche. Traditionalists may rest easy, as the subtly sweet mole coating chicken and enchiladas alike is bound to delight. Featuring a wrought-iron entrance door, the décor here is an absolute riot of color thanks to vibrant Mexican tiles surrounding the bar and artistic touches like that wall of ceramic butterflies." - Michelin Inspector

"Ordering guacamole may be a reflex for many, but at Chavela’s, what lands on the table is far from the norm. Mexico City native Chef Arturo Leonar is the brains behind this exceptional riff, which mixes smoked trout, pico de gallo and morita chile salsa to thrilling effect. His creativity even extends to other dishes, like taquitos de cangrego with sweet crabmeat and spicy salsa verde, as well as handmade quesadillas stuffed with huitlacoche. Traditionalists may rest easy, as the subtly sweet mole coating chicken and enchiladas alike is bound to delight. Featuring a wrought-iron entrance door, the décor here is an absolute riot of color thanks to vibrant Mexican tiles surrounding the bar and artistic touches like that wall of ceramic butterflies." - Michelin Inspector