Rosa Mexicano was where we decided to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the celebration commemorating the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire in 1862. And, what else to start our celebration with other than a Margie?!

My dining partner ordered their signature frozen pomegranate one, while I’m a bit more traditional, choosing their La Tradicional Margarita. The latter made with blanco tequila, fresh lime and agave made spicy with the addition of their “House Tres Chiles Tincture” ($15).

We then ordered the Guacamole en Molcajete, supposed to be made tableside, but oddly not. Instead, it was made at the other end of the dining room. I say oddly, as the guac was done tableside for the guests next to us. Whatever, it was made fresh as ordered and came with warm corn tortilla chips and yummy roasted tomato salsa ($16, classic single order).

Our server Cesar was quite attentive and helpful throughout our meal. He happily continued to replenish our roasted tomato salsa that we found to be addictive.

When asked, he suggested the signature nachos ($12) instead of their chopped salad as we were deciding between the two. We were glad we chose the former with Chihuahua cheese, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole and pickled jalapeños all drizzled with crema and shredded Cotija cheese. We had requested it with “Grilled Jumbo Shrimp, +$12.” I was quite surprised with the tiny chopped shrimp in the mix. Tasty, but not worth the extra $12. We finished with tequila shots!

We returned to celebrate my friend’s big birthday, this time trying the grilled pineapple pico de gallo (+4) atop their guacamole en molcajete that we traditionally order. I’d do this fruited, cilantro, red onion, lime and habanero pepper addition again.

The only other dish worth mentioning was the duck carnitas enchiladas ($26) with queso fresco and Chihuahua cheese inside covered with mole poblano and drizzled with crema.

I’d still recommend a visit, especially if attending something at Lincoln Center.

Rosa Mexicano
Lincoln Center
61 Columbus Avenue
New York, NY 10023
(212) 977-7700