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Empellon Cocina Reviews List
Empellon Cocina
There is a fine line between taking a cuisine in a new direction and stripping it of its soul (and Mexican food has some serious soul). This is a belief that we keep in mind when contemplating the cuisine at Empellón Cocina.
Garlic, ginger and scallions taste different coming from a wok then they do from a saute pan. Technique and application define a cuisine just as much as the ingredients. In fact, I would argue more so. And that is the philosophy of our kitchen in the East Village. At Empellón Cocina we are dedicated to the myriad of fundamental techniques and applications that make Mexican cooking taste Mexican. But we are dedicated to using them with our own sensibility. Empellón's approach to cuisine is informed by authenticity but not limited by it.
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Garlic, ginger and scallions taste different coming from a wok then they do from a saute pan. Technique and application define a cuisine just as much as the ingredients. In fact, I would argue more so. And that is the philosophy of our kitchen in the East Village. At Empellón Cocina we are dedicated to the myriad of fundamental techniques and applications that make Mexican cooking taste Mexican. But we are dedicated to using them with our own sensibility. Empellón's approach to cuisine is informed by authenticity but not limited by it.
218 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Rating Breakdown 218 reviews
5 stars
(81)
4 stars
(95)
3 stars
(34)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(3)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(154)
- neighborhood gem(87)
- hot spot(84)
- vibrant bar scene(36)
- special occasion(32)
- good for groups(30)
Empellon Cocina Reviews List
Review 1 for Empellon Cocina
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"For lunch, we had the Sea urchin guacamole, scotch egg with chicken chorizo, chicharroness, sea scallops, and sweetbreads. All were excellent."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 2 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Americanized Mexican food, with pretensions that are mostly not achieved. While most of the food is very good, tastes tend towards the sweet, and too much of it is overly greasy. The chips leave one mopping one's hands on the napkin, for example, which I've never encountered even in the lowest-end Mexican. And the tortillas taste packaged. The sauces are decent enough, but charging for them is a surprise; they aren't good enough for that. Many of them remind one of spiced mayonnaise, and flavors aren't quite Mexican. And the ambience is overly cold. On the plus side everything was properly cooked, and some of the flavor combinations are interesting. I'm writing the negatives because this place does get a lot of accolades in the press."
Dined on 6/08/2013
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Review 3 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"One of the best restaurant I have tried this year.
I personally will share all the food with my friends. Finally the guacamole has some life - pistachio is a great idea
Everything is perfectly balanced
Dessert lovers will be in heaven.
For an amazing restaurant there is no pretentious at all, service is perfect, and the bar give a great atmosphere.."
I personally will share all the food with my friends. Finally the guacamole has some life - pistachio is a great idea
Everything is perfectly balanced
Dessert lovers will be in heaven.
For an amazing restaurant there is no pretentious at all, service is perfect, and the bar give a great atmosphere.."
Dined on 4/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 4 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creative food but expensive wines
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"excellent, creative, delicious food but would have appreciated a few reasonable wines."
Dined on 6/01/2013
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Review 5 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great spot
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"great service super accommodating
the G.M is super cool and the food is top notch."
the G.M is super cool and the food is top notch."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Imaginative cuisine, great drinks..
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Really creative interpretation of Mexican cuisine. We started with the Pistachio Guacamole with Masa crisps which was unbelievable. The melted Tetilla Cheese w/lobster, the Sliced Mango w/Peeky Toe Crab Salad and Fluke Ceviche w/Rhubarb Juice followed and did not disappoint. We finished with tacos, Shrimp, Carnitas, and the Shortrib Pastrami Tacos which were all to die for. For drinks we had the House Margarita, Rooster’s Claw (with roasted habañero) and the Yuzu Margarita."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 7 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Can't Resist the Desserts
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Such a delightful experience from start to finish. Sat at the bar and enjoyed the banter of the bartender and the people seated next to us. Drinks were unique surprise. Ordered several different things and all were well edited and unique. Had heard the pastry chef had received top award so ordered every dessert. Each one was beautifully plated and exceptional. This restaurant always receives high reviews and there is a reason. A must!"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 8 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great, courteous service and staff.
Their tacos are amazing!"
Their tacos are amazing!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 9 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Outstanding in every way
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Mmmm, the apps - sliced mango w/crab, toasted vermicelli, and yellowtail sashimi, the drinks, wine and then the shortrib pastrami and carnitas taco's...just wanna do it all over again. But when I go back, I'll have to try some of the guacs. And sit at the bar for some of their unbelievable cocktails...really knowledgable and creative bartenders!"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 10 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
its orignal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Having traveled in Mexico extensively over the years, the cuisine here takes off in a noticeable novel direction. The quality is very high but don't come expecting anything remotely traditional. The are some restaurants IN NY that are in similar track - Hecho en Dumbo for instance. Though even there - there plates are smaller on the whole that the equivalent mod Mexican in Mexico City - the food has stronger roots in well known recipes - the sopes and tacos for instance.
Both restaurants suffer from din (intentionally I imagine) though Hecho has a rear counter area to compensate.
Definitely for foodies and I'm happy to go back for that reason."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 11 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food and service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Delicious food and excellent service. Went on a Thursday night at 730, by the time we left around 9 the place was packed and lively. Great decor and ambience. Must try the lobster and cheese dish, and the pistachio guacamole. Margheritas were great too. Would like to go back to try their brunch. Highly recommend."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 12 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Liquor too expensive for type of food and ambiance"
Dined on 5/16/2013
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Review 13 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great surprise
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We ordered the mango and crab appetizer and it was a complete amazing surprise, best dish of the night, it was really fresh and new. We also tried the set of salsas but liked only 3-4 of those. The masa chips were awesome, just a tad greasy. The pastrami tacos were delicious and the rhubarb dessert a real treat."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 14 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Anticipated more
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Portions very good. Felt like I was being hustled for drinks all night. Food needed more creativity. Pastrami taste was excellent"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 15 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A restaurant that knows its identity. Perfect food, drink, & service!"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 16 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Awesome times!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Thank you Chef, cooks, waiters, bartender and managers for your hard work! It was a wonderful experience! Will be back!!!"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 17 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Worth the hype
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"It was seriously incredible. The food was delicious, the staff friendly. Loved everything, especially that pistachio guacamole. The only complaint would be that there was only one meat taco option (the veggie and fish ones were great!), which was short rib and coleslaw, which tasted like a mixture of barbecue sauce and warm mayo. Try something from the mescal list as well!"
Dined on 4/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 18 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Pretentious
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Small portions.. Attitude of the staff more upper east side than east village. If you want a relaxing dinner, steer clear. Upon request to push our reservation 15 minutes,, we were accommodated with a warning: you can come but you must leave by 8:00. When questioned, the woman on the phone said this was a policy "to accommodate all of our guests." In reality, it's a policy intended to turn tables, sacrificing the experience of diners. We were rushed through the whole meal.
So if you're okay with leaving a little hungry, and don't mind the fast food experience, Empellon Cocina is for you. But if you're a foodie who wants to enjoy a relaxed evening with kind staff and normal portions, this is not the place."
So if you're okay with leaving a little hungry, and don't mind the fast food experience, Empellon Cocina is for you. But if you're a foodie who wants to enjoy a relaxed evening with kind staff and normal portions, this is not the place."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: great for brunch
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Review 19 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Wonderful food - bad noise level
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Wonderful food and service -- terrible noise -- shouting to be heard across a table for two -- not good."
Dined on 5/02/2013
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Review 20 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
a special approach to Mexican
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Guacamole with pistachios...to die for. Amazing combination.
Tacos with Scallops & Cauliflower...A+++
Desert...very minimal, and not as impressive as the savory dishes.
Drinks can be a bit stronger, or have more complex layers of spices or aromas.
Overall had a great time with friends. It was a great choice for a weeknight dining.
thank you."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 21 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I had a very good experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I had a very good experience at Empellon. I'm not a big fan of Mexican food, but this chef creates a very light and delicius plates! I enjoyed everything there!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic, hot spot
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Review 22 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Delicious and eccentric tacos.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious and eccentric tacos. Great for a 4 top"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 23 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Big surprise - creative and
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Big surprise - creative and unusual food that was unpretentiously delicious. I would only criticize where they placed us: on a sunny early evening we were sat in the dark rear corner, alone for much of our meal. It would have been nice to be sat more with other diners and in the sunset-reached part of the restaurant."
Dined on 04/25/2013
2000
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 24 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
From the lobster-queso to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"From the lobster-queso to the tongue tacos, to the searing serrano salsa, this place isn't for the faint of palate. But if you are at all adventurous and have a love of latin flavors, this place is definitely one to check out. Service was top-notch and the drinks were as flavorful and zippy as the food offerings."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
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Review 25 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food was okay, but F&W best
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was okay, but F&W best new chef, really?"
Dined on 04/19/2013
2009
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Review 26 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Not an extensive menu. Waitress
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Not an extensive menu. Waitress signaled me to wait when I needed her assistance while she finishedher conversation with her co worker which I found unproffesional."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2011
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Review 27 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great imaginative food and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great imaginative food and wonderful service but ver noisy."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 28 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
This was our 2nd visit after
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was our 2nd visit after loving it last time. Disappointed w menu this time. No satisfying main course to choose from for dinner.
Just too many weird choices.
Service and atmosphere however were terrific! Fabulous tortilla chips and salsa options. Dessert was nice too, and yum coffee"
Just too many weird choices.
Service and atmosphere however were terrific! Fabulous tortilla chips and salsa options. Dessert was nice too, and yum coffee"
Dined on 04/14/2013
2013
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 29 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We went for brunch and were
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went for brunch and were happy to see that the place was still available for 4 people in this area and we could hear eachother (no energetic noice during brunch).
Just sad that there are not much choices but the choices they have are original and very good food.
Service was super-attentive."
Just sad that there are not much choices but the choices they have are original and very good food.
Service was super-attentive."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2011
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Review 30 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Beautiful presentation food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Beautiful presentation food friendly cocktails"
Dined on 04/10/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 31 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Big flavor, little portions
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Met an out-of-town friend here and it was a delightful evening with DELICIOUS food and excellent service. But, it was a dash expensive for little portions. You should go into it thinking of it as flavorful Mexican tapas. Pistachio guacamole- Excellent. Tetilla Cheese -Super Yummy. Resposado Margarita - TASTY yet smooth. I'd go again but not with my friend that eats and eats and eats."
Dined on 04/10/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 32 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
guacamole with uni was great
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"guacamole with uni was great as was the chicharon...the razor clams with guava combination was blended well...the lengua/chorizo tacos were very tasty...we ordered 5 other dishes ( between 2 people) all well executed"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food was outstanding. Loved
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was outstanding. Loved the pistachio guacamole and the scallop tacos. Service was very friendly. Our party was late and they still held the table for us. Will be returning!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 34 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food was excellent but
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was excellent but the cocktails really stood out!! The service was attentive and helpful throughout the meal even on a busy night."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 35 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food was tasty and reliable
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was tasty and reliable but does not particularly stand out or would be considered very memorable. The scallop taco and the guacamole were very nice but no one dish had the wow factor."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 36 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Barely Mexican, but definitely
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Barely Mexican, but definitely delicious. Crazy twists on tacos and small plates create a fun experience that's great for small groups."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 37 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I thought the food was tasty
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I thought the food was tasty and inventive, but not nearly tasty nor inventive enough to justify the price. Very expensive for very small portions and it didn't blow me away. I wouldn't go back.
Service was great, though."
Service was great, though."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2007
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Review 38 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Challah bread pudding was
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Challah bread pudding was amazing. All of the guac and salsa chips were also amazing!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 39 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Miniscule brunch portions
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I left brunch starving. My sister and I ordered 2 entrees priced at $12 and $14 (chillaquiles and confit hash). The portion size was that of an appetizer. Both dishes came with only one egg on top. I am not a fan of huge portions but this was an expensive brunch for what we got. Not going back."
Dined on 03/17/2013
2012
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Review 40 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food -- very delicious
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent food -- very delicious + adventurous Mexican cuisine -- not for "traditional Tex Mex" food lovers..definitely going back"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 41 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very very good food, but portions
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very very good food, but portions were quite tiny."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2008
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Review 42 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Beard Deserved
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Seems out of sorts for the East Village, and more like a place that Patrick Bateman would take a date, were he still roaming the streets. But that's an unfair criticism. The food is definitely worthy of the James Beard recognition it is getting for 2013. An inventive and surprising menu that pops with shocking flavors when you least expect it, and lays subtlely and sophisticatedly in the weeds when you are expecting a big boom. "Delicate" is not a word I often use for even Mexican inspired food, but each dish proved to be just that in its own right. An attentive and very hip server kept us satisfied without ever overstaying her welcome, and the cocktails were fine. Only the crowd was a little lame. Definite must on your list."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 43 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
GREAT BRUNCH!!!!' Can't wait
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"GREAT BRUNCH!!!!' Can't wait to try dinner"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch
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Review 44 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Trendy but nothing special
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"There were 3 of us so we ordered a few dishes. The chicken was good. There were hardly any Vegetarian options even though one of the other reviews says its good for vegetarians.
Guac is certainly good. Dessert was terrible. Drinks were good.
All in all will not go there again."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2011
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Review 45 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The bartender (Francisco)
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The bartender (Francisco) was very nice and gave good advice on margaritas (Rooster's Claw was awesome). The scallops appetizer was amazing. Definitely would go back again."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 46 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
service was great. food was
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"service was great. food was very good although a little expensive for the portions (tacos are kind of small). cocktails were amazing."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 47 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
cool mexican, different menu
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"cool mexican, different menu approach, great quality products, great tequila drinks."
Dined on 02/26/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, romantic, hot spot
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Review 48 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The margaritas were outstanding!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The margaritas were outstanding! We also loved the Uni Guacamole! Interesting menu and fun for a group!"
Dined on 02/24/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 49 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I will return
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Loved the modern take on Mexican food ."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 50 for Empellon Cocina
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Challenging dishes -- sea
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Challenging dishes -- sea urchin guacamole with sea urchin salsa, roasted carrots with mole poblano, yogurt and watercress, and sea scallop tacos with Jean-Georges' classic preparation of caramelized cauliflower and caper-raisin emulsion. Yuzu margarita with Serrano tincture was delicious. Don't miss Lauren Resler's desserts; we had a passion fruit curd with toasted meringue sorbet which was wonderful."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2001
Special Features: hot spot
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