Abajo

Abajo (301 Church Street)  Abajo, which aptly translates as ‘under,’ is a hidden gem for tequila and mezcal enthusiasts situated in the basement of Anejo (stairs are inside and to the right). While the vibe says speakeasy, the waitstaff is anything but snobby. Whether you’re a novice or a tequila connoisseur, you’re sure to find the perfect cocktail. The food menu offers a modern and creative take on Mexican street fare. Flavorsome dishes include fried guacamole, gyro tacos and the spectacular tuna tlayuda served on a crisp tortilla pizza style. Stop by Anejo at 5 p.m. for a happy hour margarita upstairs ($8) then get cozy downstairs for the rest of the night. They are open evenings at 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday with free DJ music on Fridays and Saturdays. Stay tuned for special events like complimentary tequila tastings.

Zengo (622 Third Avenue) As you enter the zen-like grand dining room, prepare to be impressed not only by the size but also by the vast menu selections. Zengo houses three different bars with several options to score deals. Tuesday through Friday from 4-7 p.m. (main bar) and Wednesday through Friday from 5-7 p.m. (mezzanine bar), take advantage of high end cocktails at low end prices. The selection of tequilas is almost too much to process at their downstairs oasis La Biblioteca. Stop by for a reverse happy hour at La Biblioteca Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 p.m.-close.  Specials include $5 beers, $8 cocktails and discounted appetizers like two for $6 grilled mahi mahi tacos and $7 beef and pork sliders. I love the Thai shrimp lettuce wraps and seafood ceviche. Brunch on weekends is is $42 and includes unlimited small plates and free flowing brunch cocktails. There are hundreds of tequila choices and tasting flights starting at $16.

Pampano (209 East 49th Street) Their dining room serves sophisticated coastal Mexican cuisine in chic, white-on-white surroundings inspired by the shores of Mexico. The decor is as impressive as the fresh seafood bursting with unique sauces and citrus accents. Definitely start with a guacamole and a ceviche. My favorite is the shrimp but if you can’t choose, just order all four as a sampler ($36). Bottomless brunch (2 hours) is $43 and served until 3 p.m. on weekends. Monday through Friday from 5-7 p.m. enjoy $4 beer and $6 cocktails. I like to sit upstairs on the outdoor patio in nice weather. Consider visiting during lunch for the prix-fixe three course lunch for $29.

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