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"In a city that’s increasingly filled with quiet wine bars and minimalist cafes, Ruta Oaxaca chose a maximalist approach. And that’s exactly why we love this fun Mexican restaurant in Astoria. A dinner inside their hot pink patio structure feels like a well-attended neighborhood potluck where mole flows like tap water. This is a great place to bring a group of friends who might be into trying a flight of mezcal—but drinking is not the (whole) point here. Dishes like Ruta’s rich mole-covered enchiladas, gooey choriqueso, and tender short ribs are what keep us coming back for more. With its combination of buzzy sidewalk dining area and incredibly good food, Ruta Oaxaca is exactly the kind of restaurant New York City needs. And since it’s usually never packed, you won’t have to book a table several weeks in advance to eat here." - hannah albertine, nikko duren, carlo mantuano