New Mexican Eatery in NYC's Village

Having been born and raised in the great American southwest, I undoubtedly was raised eating a lot of Mexican food. Though NYC has tasty eats around just about every corner, the few scattered Mexican restaurants throughout the village area have never seemed to be enough. I often pine for the hearty and spicy meals accented with beans, cheese, sour cream and salsa. There are a few great restaurants serving delicious cuisine from south of the border throughout NYC's Village and now I can add a little place called Hotel Tortuga to that list.

Sitting in an unassuming spot at 246 East 14th Street, the new Mexican eatery has been open since late fall. The warm interior and cool Latin décor beckons 1950's Acapulco. Tropical plants also adorn the front windows distinguishing the establishment from surrounding businesses. Though they have delivery and take out, definitely stay for bit and get a table so you can enjoy the complimentary chips and salsa as well as appreciate the kitschy yet relaxed atmosphere.

The great thing about the menu here is the variety. Offering traditional style Mexican cuisine, the restaurant adds an nontraditional healthy twist. There is meat of course, a necessity for many of its dishes, but with equal clout they have added many vegetarian and vegan options. Adding a lightness to food that can often be quite heavy and fatty, Hotel Tortuga's menu makes up for this with quality and quantity. Fresh salsa and herbs like cilantro accent many of the dishes that will definitely leave you sated.

A great new addition to the village's repertoire of available Mexican food, Hotel Tortuga is also conveniently located. Sitting between 2nd and 3rd Avenues on 14th Street the restaurant is a mere stone throw away from Union Square . Also owning the well-known Burritoville, the folks who have introduced Hotel Tortuga have refined the cuisine for a healthier lifestyle. Enjoy a reasonably priced menu, since almost every entrée is under $10, as well as a mouth-watering breakfast menu that is available all day.

Hotel Tortuga, http://hoteltortuganyc.com/.
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