122 Rivington Street (between Norfolk and Essex Sts.)
212-475-2126
Mexican. La Caverna is truth in advertising. Descend the staircase and you’ll find yourself in a cavern. The space is generous and rock walled, an impressive bar as centerpiece. Stalactites hang from the ceiling like icicles on the roof of a cave. Tables frame the perimeter, corners ideal for gathering with friends.
Beyond the design, what makes this place so special is the care and attention they put into their authentic Mexican cuisine. As a lounge, no one would hold it against them if they coasted. But they do not. Instead they take the down-n-dirty classics and elevate them, rivaling any Mexican restaurante.
Take the nachos (corn tortilla chips, Monterrey Jack cheese, lettuce, black beans, pico de gallo, Mexican cream, jalapeños). Proof the usual ingredients, when in the right kitchen, are capable of greatness.
The quesadillas (veggie, chicken, steak or shrimp) are thick with Mexican cream, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cotija cheese. Every mouthful a tribute to the chef.
And if you’re feeling fajita-ish? Your tools: sautéed peppers, onion, zucchini, Mexican cream, and gluten free corn tortillas. No matter which you choose to build (chicken, steak or shrimp), you’ll have no regrets.
While they offer vanilla flan and churros mexicanos, I went off road, sampling the tiramisu (lady fingers topped with mascarpone cheese, soaked in ground espresso). From bite one it was obvious Mexico is not all they’ve mastered.
But that’s not all. At 11:00 p.m. they clear a dance floor and it’s time for the DJ. Just put on your dancing shoes and get ready to drink and boogie until mañana.