ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Mexican in Upper East Side
Best Mexican in West Village
Best Happy Hour Mexican in West Village
Best Happy Hour Tacos in West Village
Master Critic Review
Móle Mexican Bar & Grill
7.6
A neighborhood Tex-Mex fixture with roots dating back to the early ’90s, Mole West Village focuses on crowd-pleasers: brisket tacos, mole enchiladas, and tableside guacamole backed by a deep tequila list. It’s more about generous plates and casual comfort than precision cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Enchiladas, Brisket Tacos, Tableside Guacamole
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 6.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Long-running Tex-Mex spot with big portions and tableside guac.
Who should go: Groups wanting easy Tex-Mex and strong margaritas.
When to visit: Early evening for families, later for drinks and crowds.
What to order: Mole Enchiladas, Brisket Tacos, Tableside Guacamole.
Insider tip: Request a terrace table on warm nights for a quieter meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; typically tight in the West Village, especially after 6pm. Expect to circle for 10–15 minutes or use a nearby paid garage on Hudson or 7th Ave.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans and relaxed attire are standard; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during peak dinner and happy hour. Conversation is doable but not quiet.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during warm-weather patio season.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — tacos, enchiladas, salads, and sides can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but doable — a few items can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly items and corn-based dishes, though no dedicated GF kitchen area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Decent for casual dates, especially if you want margaritas and a relaxed vibe. Not ideal for intimate or quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, particularly on weekdays or earlier in the evening. For prime weekend slots or outdoor seating, expect a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly in the early evening with approachable dishes and a laid-back setting. No dedicated kids’ menu, but portions work well for sharing.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex, energetic happy hour drinks, and outdoor seating compared to more refined Mexican spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking regional Mexican cooking, quiet dining, or chef-driven refinement — alternatives like more upscale or traditional Mexican restaurants will fit better.