Chavela's
Mexican restaurant · Crown Heights ·
Mexican fare, specialty cocktails, happy hour, and brunch
Mexican fare, specialty cocktails, happy hour, and brunch
"Chavela’s serves some very good Mexican food, and it’s also one of the most fun restaurants in Crown Heights for hanging out with a group. As a result, the waits at this walk-in-only spot on Franklin Avenue can be pretty long. But they’re worth it, because once you get a table in what feels like someone’s very large and charming apartment, you’re going to want to hang out for the rest of the night. Start with the really good queso fundido with chorizo, and then fill your table with tacos and share plates like the chicken in a pool of mole, or the chile relleno. No matter what you get to eat, make sure to order some draft margaritas, too - they’re discounted during Happy Hour (weekdays until 7pm). Food Rundown Guacamole Obviously, you want some on your table. Have you ever said no to guacamole? Who are you? Queso Fundido Hot melted cheese, Poblano peppers, black beans, a side of warm tortillas...this is what Mexico does best. It’s what Chavela’s does best too. A must order. Sopa de Tortilla An excellent example of tortilla soup. Not great for sharing, but sometimes it’s OK to be selfish. This is one of those times. Pescado Tacos The only tacos you should be eating at Chavela’s. These fish tacos are excellent. Chile Relleno A big Poblano pepper, stuffed with queso fresco. This is one of our favorite things to eat here/at any Mexican restaurant. Huevos Rancheros Simple. Delicious. Eggs and tortillas with refried beans. A strong brunch order to accompany your third margarita. Chilaquiles See, huevos rancheros, but with simmered tortilla chips and salsa verde or mole on top. I go with the tangy salsa verde, because it’s Sunday and I’m feeling lively. Results may vary." - Chris Stang
"Bringing authentic Mexican food to the neighborhood back in 2007, Chef Arturo Leonar has made Chavelas a cornerstone of Crown Heights eateries due to its spectacular Latino inspired dishes and cocktails. From the tacos to the enchiladas, you really can't go wrong with just about anything. If you really want to step it up, make sure you check out their incredible brunch options on the weekends. This place can get pretty slammed, so make sure to get in early if you don't want to wait." - Kyle & Annie Turman
"The best Mexican restaurant in Crown Heights, Chevela’s is one of our go-to spots for brunch, tacos, and margaritas (often at the same time). It’s a nice venue for a casual group meal, and there’s a long bar for when you need to sit by yourself and stare into a plate of rice, beans, steak, and fresh tortillas. The staff is friendly and, with its brick walls and chandeliers, the space feels like a festive house party. For $5 beers and $9 margaritas, stop by during Happy Hour from 4-7pm Monday through Thursday." - bryan kim
"For years, Chavela’s has been Crown Heights’ go-to spot for meeting up with friends. And their outdoor patio on Franklin Avenue continues to be one of the most popular in the neighborhood. If you happen to walk by this summer, you’ll notice that almost every table is covered in margaritas, which should be all the information you need to order one to-go from the bar. If you live in the area, this Mexican spot will also deliver margaritas to your door." - nikko duren
"Chavela’s is where you go for Mexican food in Crown Heights. It’s been around for years, and you’ll pretty much always find a crowd here. That’s because the food is good, it has plenty of room for groups, and most things cost less than $20. Also, margaritas. People like to drink them. It has something to do with tequila, lime juice, and brain chemistry (but mostly tequila). Get a few along with queso, shrimp and crab empanadas, and some chicken with mole. They also have a weekday brunch, in case you want to do a doubleheader with Agi’s." - kenny yang, bryan kim, nikko duren, hannah albertine, matt tervooren
