NYC Restaurants

Mexican spot IXTA (299 Bowery) has arrived on the Lower East Side in the former DBGB space celebrating the true ancient heritage of Mexico with traditional Oaxacan cuisine. The menu is curated by executive chef Francisco Blanco (previously Le Cirque and Eataly’s Manzo), who is also native of Mexico City with deep roots in Puebla and Oaxaca.

Diners will discover dishes like whole prawns in el diablo salsa, truffle tamale tots + cheese, and original birria tacos made with slow-cooked goat meat. Raw Bar selections include oysters on the half shell, tuna tostada and ceviche mixto with the catch of the day. Larger plates bring whole branzino, a 32-ounce tomahawk steak and suckling pig with roasted pineapple and mojo sauce. There are tantalizing cocktails like Día en la Playa (Chipotle Tequila, Coconut Cream, Pineapple, Chili Threads), IXTA Nixta (Tequila Reposda, Nixta, Xocolatl Mole Bitters), and Mucha Pasión (Tequila Blanco, Passion Fruit, Cilantro, Chili Salt).

IXTA’s decor also adds to the authenticity with hand-carved totems, exported Mexican handwoven basket pendants, custom artwork, greenery, and more. >>