La Contenta LES Introduce
Tucked away in the vibrant and bustling Lower East Side of New York City is a true neighborhood gem that has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine.
La Contenta LES is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico with every bite. This isn’t your average taco joint; it’s a place where traditional recipes are honored, fresh ingredients are celebrated, and a welcoming, cozy atmosphere makes you feel right at home. It’s a place that's a perfect fit for a romantic dinner, a celebratory brunch with friends, or a solo bite to eat. Whether you’re a New York local or a tourist exploring the city, La Contenta LES stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving genuine, high-quality Mexican food.
Finding this culinary haven is easy. Located at 102 Norfolk Street, New York, NY 10002, La Contenta LES is situated in one of the city's most dynamic and culturally rich neighborhoods. The area is well-served by public transportation, making it easily accessible for anyone in the five boroughs. If you’re driving, you’ll find both free and paid street parking options nearby, though like any bustling New York neighborhood, it’s a good idea to factor in a little extra time to find a spot. The restaurant itself is designed with accessibility in mind, offering wheelchair-accessible seating to ensure that everyone can enjoy a meal comfortably. Its convenient location and thoughtful design make it a great choice for a relaxed and stress-free dining experience.
La Contenta LES goes above and beyond to provide a flexible and accommodating dining experience. The restaurant offers a variety of services to fit your needs, whether you prefer to dine in, take your food to go, or have it delivered right to your door.
- Dine-In: Enjoy the cozy, romantic, and casual atmosphere inside the restaurant. With table service and a bar on-site, it’s the perfect setting for a memorable meal.
- Outdoor Seating: On warmer days, you can take advantage of their outdoor seating and enjoy your meal al fresco. They even allow dogs outside, so your furry friends can join you.
- Takeout & Delivery: Can't make it to the restaurant? No problem. La Contenta LES offers convenient takeout and delivery services, including no-contact delivery, so you can enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your own home.
- Curbside Pickup: For a quick and easy option, you can order ahead and pick up your food curbside, saving you time and hassle.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as it’s a popular spot and can often have a wait, especially on weekends.
- Catering: Planning a party or an event? La Contenta LES also offers catering services, allowing you to bring their incredible flavors to your next gathering.
What sets La Contenta LES apart from other Mexican restaurants in the city are its unique features and commitment to quality. From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the attention to detail and a focus on providing a top-notch experience.
- Authentic Cuisine: The menu is a journey through traditional Mexican flavors, featuring dishes like the rich and savory Pollo en Mole Poblano, the flavorful Huarache de Camarón, and the perfectly prepared Branzino Veracruz.
- Exceptional Drinks: The restaurant is renowned for its drink offerings. The bar serves an impressive selection of beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, with a highlight on their great beer and cocktail selections. Their micheladas, especially the unique Michelada De Tamarindo, are a must-try.
- Fresh Ingredients: Everything from the guacamole to the salsas is made with fresh ingredients, ensuring a vibrant and authentic taste in every dish.
- Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the fast and friendly service, making for a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
- Unique Ambiance: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. It’s a great spot for a date night or a casual get-together with friends.
- Diverse Menu: Beyond the main courses, the menu includes happy hour food and drinks, late-night options, small plates, vegetarian options, and a kids' menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
To plan your visit or place an order, you can contact La Contenta LES using the following information:
- Address: 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA
- Phone: (212) 432-4180
When you visit La Contenta LES, you’re not just ordering a meal; you're embarking on a culinary adventure. The menu is packed with delicious options, but some dishes truly stand out and have earned rave reviews from diners.
For starters, the Guacamole Tradicional is a fan favorite. Made with fresh avocados and served with crispy totopos, it's a perfect way to kick off your meal. Many diners also highly recommend the Tacos de Pescado, which are praised for their incredible flavor, even by those who aren’t typically fans of fish.
When it comes to the main course, you’ll find a wealth of options that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican cooking. The Enchiladas Suizas are a must-try, described as having the perfect level of spice that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. The Huarache de Camarón, a dish featuring masa dough, grilled shrimp, and a rich roasted salsa, is another highly recommended choice that promises a delightful and unique experience.
One of the most talked-about dishes is the Pollo En Mole Poblano. While it might require a timely visit as it’s often a popular choice, the rich and complex mole sauce on tender chicken is a dish that promises to be worth the wait. Another standout is the Branzino Veracruz, featuring a delicate fish with a flavorful Veracruz sauce and Mexican rice that has been described as an "incredible, rich" experience.
And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t skip dessert. The Tres Leches cake, made with pulque and corn flour, is a unique and memorable treat. It's not overly sweet and offers a delightful, one-of-a-kind flavor that provides a perfect ending to your meal.
With a menu full of expertly crafted dishes, a welcoming staff that makes you feel like family, and a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger, La Contenta LES is a standout choice in New York City's dining scene. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or planning a special evening, you can trust that this Latino and women-owned establishment will provide a meal you won’t soon forget.
La Contenta LES Menu
Las Cervezas
- Pacífico $5.00
Must be 21 to purchase.
- Tecate $5.00
Must be 21 to purchase.
- Modelo Especial $5.00
Must be 21 to purchase.
- Monopolio Lager $5.00
Must be 21 to purchase.
- Negra Modelo $5.00
Must be 21 to purchase.
Plato Fuerte
- Pollo En Mole Poblano $25.00
Braised chicken breast, mole sauce, wild rice chicken risotto, and plantains. Contains gluten and nuts.
- Branzino Veracruz $28.00
Braised branzino, Veracruz sauce, Mexican rice, spinach.
- Hanger Steak A La Parrilla $34.00
Double-baked potato, spinach, roasted salsa verde, and chimichurri salsa.
- Enchiladas De Camarón $27.00
Pan-roasted shrimp, Oaxaca cheese, chipotle salsa, Brussels sprouts, and sour cream.
- Birria Tradicional De Res $28.00
Braised short ribs, chickpeas, carrots, spicy broth, served with corn tortillas
- Huarache De Camarón $27.00
Masa dough, grilled shrimp, bean purée, Swiss cheese, and roasted salsa.
- Fajitas Tradicionales De Steak $31.00
Pan-roasted steak, peppers, onions.
- Salmón Al Pastor $28.00
Pan-roasted salmon, al pastor salsa, mashed potatoes, asparagus.
- Chile Relleno Y Succotash $24.00
Chile poblano, spinach, Oaxaca cheese, succotash, and chipotle salsa.
- Enchiladas Suizas $26.00
Braised chicken, tomatillo salsa, Swiss cheese, and rajas con crema.
Las Sodas
- Topo Chico $3.50
Sparkling mineral water, sourced and bottled in Monterrey, Mexico, offering a refreshing and crisp taste.
- Squirt $3.50
Mexican grapefruit soda.
- Mexican Coca-Cola $3.50
Mexican Coke.
Coffee/Tea
- Cappuccino $5.50
- Café Latte $5.50
- American Coffee $3.75
- Tea $4.50
Las Micheladas
- La Contenta Michelada $9.00
Lager beer, cucumber juice purée, hot sauce, lime juice, sea salt, a splash of orange juice.
- Michelada De Tamarindo $9.00
Lager beer, housemade tamarind purée, guajillo chile, lime juice, sea salt.
- Michelada De Blackberry $9.00
Dark lager beer, blackberry purée, housemade chile morita salsa, lime juice, sea salt.
- Michelada Al Pastor $9.00
Lager beer, housemade pineapple purée, cilantro, chipotle pepper, lemon juice, sea salt.
Las Sodas
- Mexican Coca-Cola $3.50
Mexican Coke.
- Topo Chico $3.50
Sparkling mineral water, sourced and bottled in Monterrey, Mexico, offering a refreshing and crisp taste.
- Squirt $3.50
Mexican grapefruit soda.
Sides
- Side Of Salsa (Spicy) $2.00
- Rice & Beans $6.00
Vegetable rice and black beans (vegan).
- Chips & Salsa $4.00
- Grilled Asparagus $7.00
- Succotash $7.00
Zucchini, poblano pepper, onion, corn
- Side Of Crema Mexicana $2.00
- Spinach $7.00
Sautéed in extra virgin olive oil, garlic
- Side Of Jalapeños $2.00
Brunch Dishes
- Mexican Omelette $17.00
Avocado, pico de gallo, Swiss cheese, home fries.
- Panqueques $17.00
Pancakes with fresh fruit. Contains gluten.
- Guacamole Tradicional $16.00
Mashed avocados, pico de gallo, served with tortilla chips. Contains gluten.
- La Contenta Nachos $17.00
Tortilla chips, black beans, pico de gallo, pepper jack and cheddar cheese, avocado sauce, sour cream. Contains gluten.
- Huevos Rancheros $17.00
Sunny-side up eggs, ranchero salsa, pepper jack cheese, black beans, home fries.
- Tres Leches French Toast $17.00
Berry compote, maple butter, brioche. Contains gluten.
- Grilled Quesadilla With Rice & Beans $16.00
Pepper jack, Oaxaca and cheddar cheese, huitlacoche, avocado sauce, sour cream. Contains gluten.
- Avocado Toast $17.00
Avocado, grilled tomatoes, sunny-side up eggs, arugula on toasted sourdough bread. Contains gluten.
- Breakfast Burrito $16.00
Bacon, potatoes, onion, Oaxaca cheese, egg. Contains gluten.
- Steak And Eggs $20.00
Grilled hanger steak, 2 eggs any style, roasted tomatillo salsa, black beans, home fries.
- La Contenta Omelette $17.00
Smithfield ham, roasted poblano, chihuahua. cheese, home fries.
- Enchiladas Suizas $20.00
Braised chicken, tomatillo salsa, Swiss cheese.
- Tacos De Carne Asada $17.00
Grilled hanger steak. guacamole, pico de gallo, tomatillo salsa. Served with rice & beans. Contains gluten.
- Sopes Benedictos $18.00
Poached eggs, corn sope, black beans, chorizo, hollandaise-chipotle sauce, home fries.
- Camarones Al Ajillo $20.00
Pan-roasted shrimp, chile-garlic sauce, rice, spinach.
- Chilaquiles Verdes O Rojos Con Huevo $17.00
Tortilla casserole with Oaxaca cheese, tomatillo (green) or chipotle-tomato (red) sauce, sautéed onions, eggs any style. Contains gluten.
- Tacos De Pescado $16.00
Tempura crimson snapper, avocado sauce, cole slaw, chipotle aioli, sour cream. Served with rice & beans. Contains gluten.
Para Empezar
- Tacos De Pescado $17.00
Tempura codfish, avocado sauce, cole slaw, chipotle aioli, and sour cream. Contains gluten.
- Grilled Quesadilla $18.00
Pepper jack, Oaxaca and cheddar cheese, huitlacoche, avocado sauce, sour cream and pico de gallo. Contains gluten.
- Torta Ahogada $18.00
Shrimp slider drowned in mild and spicy sauce, dollop of guacamole. Contains gluten.
- La Contenta Nachos $18.00
Tortilla chips, black beans, pico de gallo, pepper jack, Oaxaca and cheddar cheese, avocado sauce, sour cream. Contains gluten.
- Tacos De Carnitas $17.00
Pork confit, cilantro, serrano salsa (very spicy).
- Tacos De Pollo $16.00
Marinated chicken, cole slaw, roasted tomatillo salsa, and crema.
- Guacamole Tradicional $18.00
Mashed avocados, pico de gallo, served with tortilla chips. Contains gluten.
- Tacos De Carne Asada $18.00
Grilled hanger steak, guacamole, pico de gallo, and tomatillo salsa. Contains gluten.
La Contenta LES Details
From the business
- Identifies as Latino-owned
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
La Contenta LES Photos










La Contenta LES Location
La Contenta LES Reviews
cocktailshappy hourmargaritasmezcalappetizershanger steakqueso fundidofish tacospulqueshort rib
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1A great find, tucked away on the lower east side! Small, quaint and authentic with excellent service, very tasty margaritas and the food, oh the food. We started with Margs and Nachos, both top notch and then tacos all of the way around. I had carnitas and then fish tacos, tasted the polo tacos, they were excellent as well. Best Mexican in some time.These people are sweet and accommodating, we would be back!!!
July 27 · Bob BalderI visited this place for the first time nine years ago, and I was impressed by their drinks and starters at that time.Before I share my experience, I want to give a big shout-out to the warm and friendly service. The staff is incredibly nice and always there to help ensure you have a great experience. They are polite and treat you well, making it easy to consider coming back.Now, let's talk about the food. The whole experience was fantastic, but I want to highlight the dishes we tried that day.**To Start:**We ordered fish tacos and classic guacamole. I’m not a big fan of fish, but those fish tacos were really, really good. The guacamole was fresh and tasty, a perfect match with their totopos.**Main Course:**I really wanted to try their Pollo en Mole Poblano, but we arrived too early for it. However, it was very kind of them to open the lunch menu for us before 4 PM.**Enchiladas Suizas:** Five stars! I loved how they were prepared. They had the perfect level of spiciness, enhancing the flavors without being overpowering. This is exactly the amount of spice I enjoy in a dish.**Huarache de Camarón:** This dish included masa dough, grilled shrimp, bean purée, Swiss cheese, and roasted salsa. The roasted salsa was incredible—so rich in flavor. Five stars!**Branzino Veracruz:** This dish featured Branzino with Veracruz sauce and Mexican rice. It had incredible, rich flavors. It was lightly spicy, just enough to enhance the experience. Five stars!I am a big fan of desserts and always look for something interesting and memorable.I ordered their Tres Leches cake made with pulque and corn flour. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was very happy with my choice. The flavor was different—not too sweet, just perfect. It was a unique experience that I really enjoyed.Will I come back? Absolutely! I can’t wait to try their Pollo en Mole Poblano. I highly recommend this place!
March 14 · Patricia CaguanaHad a reservation at 7:30pm and didn’t realize there were two entrances. Went to the right side and the host let me choose which table I wanted to dine in (the left or right entrance). Decided to go with the left entrance given it was more quiet and less busy. Ordered our drinks at the bar while they got our table ready. We got the El Mixteco which was tasty and a classic Pina Colada. Got seated at a corner table next to the window which was pretty small and tight. We shared a guacamole and chips, birria tradicional de res (which we had no idea it was a stew) and enchiladas de camaron with a side of rice and beans (extra cost). The entrees were pricey given it didn’t come with any rice and beans (which was $6 extra). The enchiladas tasted better than the birria. The service was great though and very attentive.
February 23 · Nicole KimGreat spot! Incredible tequila selection (only part of it is pictured)! The food was delicious. We had queso fundido and the steak with a twice baked potato and spinach…simple but wow. The flan was tasty but the texture was a little sturdy. Not too too busy on a Saturday night but it was starting to get busy around 7pm. We will definitely be back.
March 10 · Ann PowersThe food is hit or miss. The service is extremely slow, we waited 40 minutes for some guacamole. The tables are tilted and wobbly. Would not recommend this or the sister place next door Vallarta Tropical.
July 17 · Fernán Oviedo
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