About Us
Since 1984
¡Hola!
Rosa Mexicano is a destination born of a unique vision. In our restaurants, you’ll experience upscale dining that honors the rich heritage, culinary techniques, and the global impact of Mexican cuisine. Rosa Mexicano offers an “elevated fiesta” deeply rooted in authentic Mexican cuisine, serving both beloved classics and sophisticated dishes in a stylish and festive atmosphere.
Rosa Mexicano opened its flagship restaurant in Midtown East, in Manhattan’s Sutton Place neighborhood, in 1984. Inspired by the colors, flavors, produce, and architecture of Mexico, it became our mission and passion to share the cuisine of Mexico with New Yorkers. We made our mark as the first to introduce fine dining Mexican fare to the dynamic New York restaurant scene.
Read more about the story of Rosa Mexicano — our founder Josefina Howard, the table-side guacamole that started it all, and four decades of fine-dining Mexican cuisine.
Eating Mexico
Fresh guacamole, made tableside and to order (Josefina’s style: no lime!); house-made mole crafted over three days using 26 ingredients; mouth-watering tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas – we’re proud to serve our versions of the classics you love. Or, embark on an exciting food adventure – from our enchiladas, to our spectacular Parilladas mixed grill – you are sure to discover the flavors of Mexico, but uniquely reimagined.
A blend of traditions and culinary innovations, our menus reflect both the varied cuisine from all regions of Mexico and their time-honored preparation techniques, as well as modern food trends currently thriving in Mexico. Rosa Mexicano is renowned for its cooking from scratch, utilizing the freshest, most authentic ingredients available. Moreover, we are proud to use the highest quality beef available.
¡Salud!
Recognized as the best margaritas in New York City, Rosa Mexicano’s cocktails are a true testament to quality and craft. Our beverage program features an extensive collection of tequila and mezcal, with over 100 selections at many of our locations. From our iconic frozen pomegranate margarita to innovative mezcal-infused creations, each cocktail is a masterpiece of flavor. Whether you’re joining us at the bar or enjoying a drink with your meal, let our expert bartenders elevate your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Rosa Mexicano?
Rosa Mexicano was founded by Josefina Howard, a chef and culinary historian who set out to present Mexican cooking as fine dining. You can read the full story on our Our Story page.
When did Rosa Mexicano open?
Rosa Mexicano opened its flagship restaurant in Midtown East, in Manhattan’s Sutton Place neighborhood, in 1984, and was the first to introduce fine-dining Mexican fare to the New York restaurant scene.
Is Rosa Mexicano’s guacamole really made at the table?
Yes. Our guacamole is prepared fresh and to order at your table, Josefina’s style — with no lime. It has been a signature of the Rosa Mexicano experience since 1984.
What is Rosa Mexicano known for?
We are best known for our table-side guacamole, our house-made mole crafted over three days from 26 ingredients, and our iconic frozen pomegranate margarita. See our menus for the full selection.
What does the beverage program include?
Our bar features an extensive collection of tequila and mezcal, with over 100 selections at many locations, alongside cocktails recognized among the best margaritas in New York City.
Is the food made from scratch?
Yes. Rosa Mexicano is renowned for cooking from scratch, using the freshest and most authentic ingredients available, including the highest quality beef. Our menus draw on regional cuisines from across Mexico and their time-honored preparation techniques.
