"Here’s a tip for you. Jim Cramer (yes, that Jim Cramer) owns a Mexican restaurant in Carroll Gardens. Now, your first reaction to this news is probably something along the lines of, “hang on while I make a note of this restaurant that I’ll never go to.” And we don’t blame you. We actually found out that he owned Bar San Miguel after our visit, and had we known beforehand, we probably would have written it off as a place where people yell at you in Spanish and scrutinize your menu selections in front of the entire restaurant. But that’s not what goes on here at all. Bar San Miguel is actually a really chill, really good little Mexican spot, with excellent margaritas and an awesome back patio. Do they serve the best [cuisine slug=“mexican”]Mexican[/cuisine] food in New York City? No they don’t, and by the way there’s no such thing. But they do have a solid menu of enchiladas and tacos that more than get the job done, especially when you’re chasing them with jalapeño-infused tequila drinks. The service is friendly too, and Bar San Miguel ultimately just has the vibe of a good neighborhood establishment - one where you come to have some drinks and see some friends, and maybe contemplate your investment strategy. Apparently, RESTAURANTS ARE A BUY. Food Rundown Chips y Salsa I consider myself a chips y salsa connoisseur, and I am usually very anti- colored chips. There were some red and blue ones in the mix here, but they’re house made, and are therefore pretty decent. The salsas, however, are bueno. Guacamole y Chips The guacamole at Bar San Miguel is very straightforward. You’ll enjoy eating it, but you probably won’t be talking about it the next day. Empanadas We like these empanadas because they aren’t greasy, but there is a whole lot of melted Oaxaca cheese in there. Almost too much. Order them if you like the idea of Mexican mozzarella sticks. Fish Tacos A really solid fried fish taco, which comes two to an order for $9. They’re pretty big too. Chile Relleno A big stuffed poblano pepper, filled with Oaxaca cheese, mushrooms, and carrot. We loved this, but again wish there was just a little bit less cheese and a little bit more of the other stuff. Regardless, it’s a good option for vegetarians. Short Rib Enchiladas Our favorite thing on the menu at Bar San Miguel. These enchiladas are super flavorful, thanks to the braised short rib meat inside. They also get the cheese balance right here. Order it. These come in chicken too." - Chris Stang
