Jajaja - West Village

You know what's easy? Finding delicious Mexican food in NYC. You know what poses a challenge? Finding delicious vegan Mexican food virtually anywhere! Luckily, I came across Jajaja, with locations in the West Village, Lower East Side, Hudson Yards, and Brooklyn.

Here you can expect a bright, eclectic ambiance, and creative vegan combinations. From what I saw on Carmine Street, Jajaja is well prepared for outdoor diners with seating in front of the restaurant as well as on their charming back patio. Crowd favorites here are the Nachos topped with vegan chorizo, fermented black beans, turmeric queso fundido, and sour cream, and the Chorizo Burrito, which is a tri-colored guacamole, salsa, and sour cream smothered burrito, filled with their rice and beans.

I came here with my vegan mother this past weekend and we can attest that the Nachos are a must have. I recommend ordering this with guacamole because it brought a burst of freshness to this hearty starter. Definitely ideal for sharing! I also ordered the Coconut Queso Quesadilla. Personally, I am not vegan and I do not have a great affinity for dairy substitutions. I found with this dish that the "cheese" was sticking around the roof of my mouth more than I would've liked, and the pico de gallo for me was abrasively spicy.

While that was not a slam dunk, this menu was filled with inspired dishes that are reasonably priced and perfect to enjoy with friends, on a date, or with a plant-based friend!

Overall Rating: ★★★★