Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Manhattan Little Mexico: A Guide to East Harlem’s Vibrant Mexican Community
Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and while NYC has no shortage of festive spots for a margarita and some chips and salsa, why not make this year special by experiencing Manhattan Little Mexico? Nestled in East Harlem, Manhattan Little Mexico is a hidden gem bursting with authentic flavors, vibrant culture, and a warm community spirit—perfect for those looking to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in a truly meaningful way.
Discovering Manhattan Little Mexico
Once known as Spanish Harlem or “El Barrio,” this neighborhood has a rich history of immigration, starting with Puerto Ricans in the 1940s. Fast forward to the 1990s, and a vibrant influx of Mexican immigrants began transforming the area. Today, Manhattan Little Mexico boasts a thriving community of over 50,000 Mexican New Yorkers, revitalizing East Harlem with incredible food, shops, and cultural events.
How to Visit:
Hop on the #6 subway to 116th St. and step into the heart of Manhattan Little Mexico. The neighborhood is centered along East 116th Street, between Park and 1st Avenues, with the true “centro” between 2nd and 3rd Ave.
Food, Flavors & Festivities
Stroll down East 116th and you’ll be greeted by the unmistakable sights, sounds, and scents of Mexico. Bodegas brim with fresh peppers, cilantro, queso fresco, tortillas, and mole. Look for Mexican snacks, sodas, beers, and even colorful piñatas ready for your next fiesta. Panaderias lure you in with sweet breads and pastries, perfect for any celebration—including quinceañeras.
Beyond food, you’ll find discount clothing stores, floristerias, music shops stocked with mariachi and Mexican pop, and specialty stores for everything from calling cards to wire transfers. Manhattan Little Mexico truly feels like a home away from home for many immigrants—and a fascinating destination for visitors.
Where to Eat in Manhattan Little Mexico
Come hungry! Manhattan Little Mexico is packed with family-run taquerias and cuchifrito shops serving up the real deal: tacos, burritos, and tortas stuffed with grilled beef, carnitas, chorizo, lengua, or even goat. Sip on refreshing agua frescas or fruit batidas, and don’t miss out on a cold Mexican cerveza.
Must-Visit Spots in Little Mexico
- Cafe Ollin (339 E 108th St): Beloved for their tacos and tortas.
- Taco Mix (234 E 116th St): Famous for their al pastor.
- El Aguila (137 E 116th St & Lexington at 104th): Casual and delicious.
- El Paso Taqueria (237 E 116th St): Locals rave about their authentic flavors.
- Mexico Lindo (2265 2nd Ave at 116th): More than a grocery—find Mexican crafts, CDs, religious items, and a bakery next door.
More Than Food: Culture & Community
- St. Paul’s Church (113 W 117th St): A hub for the local Latin community. It features beautiful stained glass and shrines to Latin American patron saints.
- Justo Botanica (134 E 104th St): Stock up on herbal remedies, amulets, and traditional potions.
- Museo del Barrio (1230 Fifth Ave at 104th St): Dive into Latin and Caribbean American art and culture.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Manhattan Little Mexico
Cinco de Mayo is especially festive in Manhattan Little Mexico. Many residents hail from Puebla and Hidalgo, where the holiday originates. Don’t miss the NYC Cinco de Mayo Parade on May 6th, marching down Central Park West from 106th to 97th Street at noon.
Ready to explore more of New York City’s diverse neighborhoods?
Pair your visit to Manhattan Little Mexico with a guided tour of the city’s most iconic sites! Check out Take Walks’ Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour for a deeper dive into NYC’s vibrant immigrant history.
