The Black Ant

- 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Nestled in the heart of the East Village, The Black Ant stands as a testament to modern Mexican cuisine, offering an experience that is far from traditional. This restaurant, brought to life by a team of passionate chefs, has carved out a unique identity in New York City's diverse dining landscape. The Black Ant is not just about serving food; it's about a culinary journey that showcases a blend of regional Mexican influences, particularly from Oaxaca, with a sophisticated, contemporary twist. The menu is an artful combination of classic dishes and bold, inventive creations, making every visit a discovery of new and exciting flavors.

The ambiance is a key part of the experience. The space is often described as dark, moody, and clubby, with an intimate and energetic vibe. The unique décor, which includes subtle ant-themed elements and a striking mural, adds to the restaurant's distinctive character. It's a setting that is perfect for a lively dinner with friends, a special date night, or a memorable celebration. The dedication to exceptional food, creative cocktails, and an overall unforgettable atmosphere has earned The Black Ant well-deserved accolades and a loyal following of New Yorkers who appreciate its innovative approach.

The Black Ant is conveniently located at 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA. Its prime position in the East Village makes it highly accessible for anyone in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. The neighborhood is a major transportation hub, and the restaurant is just a short walk from several subway stations, including the F train at Second Avenue, and is served by various bus lines.

The location also offers a vibrant street life and is an ideal starting point for exploring the many shops, bars, and entertainment venues in the East Village. For those driving, while street parking can be challenging, there are options for both free and paid street parking available. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating, which is a great option for guests who want to enjoy their meal in the open air, especially when the weather is pleasant.

The Black Ant provides a wide array of services to cater to different dining needs and occasions.

• Dine-in: Offering a full-service dining experience, The Black Ant provides a sophisticated and comfortable setting. It's a popular spot, so making a reservation is recommended, particularly for dinner and weekend brunch.

• Outdoor Seating: For those who prefer dining al fresco, the restaurant features outdoor seating. This is a great way to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the East Village while you eat.

• Takeout & Curbside Pickup: You can easily order your meal to go and pick it up at the restaurant. This is a convenient option for a quick and delicious meal at home. The restaurant also offers curbside pickup for added convenience.

• Delivery & No-Contact Delivery: The Black Ant partners with third-party delivery services, allowing you to enjoy their food from the comfort of your home or office. No-contact delivery is also available, ensuring a safe and seamless experience.

• Private Dining: For special events or large groups, the restaurant has a private dining room available. This space, with a capacity of up to 35 people, offers a secluded and intimate setting for celebrations.

The Black Ant has several unique features that distinguish it from other Mexican restaurants in the city.

• Offerings: The menu is extensive and includes a full bar with an excellent selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and hard liquor. The restaurant is also noted for its happy hour, which offers great deals on both drinks and food. This is an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality yet affordable after-work bite or drink.

• Culinary Innovation: The restaurant's name itself hints at its most unique feature: the use of insects in some of its dishes. While not all items contain them, adventurous diners can try signature items like the Black Ant Guacamole, which is seasoned with black ant salt, and the Croquetas, made with grasshoppers. This innovative approach to traditional Mexican cuisine is a major talking point and sets the restaurant apart.

• Happy Hour: Known for its great happy hour deals, The Black Ant offers an opportunity to enjoy their excellent margaritas and food at a more accessible price. Margaritas are a must-try, with a reviewer praising the "Smoky Jalapeño" for its complex flavor profile.

• Atmosphere: The ambiance is a strong point. Described as casual, cozy, trendy, and upscale, it appeals to a broad audience. The restaurant's design and music contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that is both inviting and exciting.

• Amenities: The Black Ant provides several amenities for its guests, including a full bar on-site, a private dining room, and free Wi-Fi. It is also a pet-friendly establishment, allowing dogs in its outdoor seating area.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach The Black Ant using the contact information below.

• Address: 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

• Phone: (212) 598-0300

While every dish at The Black Ant is meticulously crafted, some menu items stand out as particularly memorable and are highly recommended. The Black Ant Guacamole is a must-order. A customer review highlighted it as the "best I ate in Manhattan so far," praising its fresh taste and unique seasoning, noting that the ants are "barely noticeable," so even those with reservations about the ingredient can enjoy it. Another popular appetizer is the Esquites, which is a creamy corn stew that provides a perfect start to the meal.

For tacos, the Tacos De Hongos (mushroom tacos) are an excellent choice for vegetarians and a testament to the restaurant’s ability to make plant-based dishes shine. However, the most talked-about tacos are the Carnitas De Pato, featuring succulent duck confit, and the Fish Taco, which a reviewer from a different, older menu noted had a delicious combination of fried fish and a spicy aioli.

For main courses, the Pollo En Mole and Carne Asada are classic choices that showcase the chef's expertise. The Enchiladas De Conejo (braised rabbit enchiladas) are also a unique and highly-rated option for those seeking something different. The Pulpo A La Diabla is another standout, featuring perfectly cooked octopus. Beyond the food, The Black Ant is also celebrated for its cocktails, with the Smoky Jalapeño margarita being a favorite among many.

The dessert menu should not be overlooked. The Chocolate Love, Tres Leches, and Flan are all great ways to end the meal on a high note. A former chef at the restaurant said the food was "amazing and way ahead of its times," and that all the accolades were "well deserved." While a reviewer mentioned their expectation for more insects was a bit off, the food itself, and particularly the guacamole and drinks, were consistently praised for their high quality and deliciousness. This feedback confirms that The Black Ant is a restaurant that delivers on taste and innovation, making it a worthy choice for a truly special dining experience.

The Black Ant

60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA