Empellon Taqueria Waterline Square

Mexican restaurants in Manhattan often feel like they’re competing with the city itself—loud, fast, and packed with personality. Empellon Taqueria Waterline Square leans into that energy without trying to reinvent it. The menu here plays with tradition, offering small plates that work just as well for a quick bite as they do for a longer meal. Vegetarian options share space with heartier comfort food, and the bar keeps pace with cocktails, beer, and wine.

The spot sits at 645 W 59th St, New York, NY 10069, a stretch of the Upper West Side where the Hudson River hums in the background. It’s the kind of place where happy hour isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a reason to show up early. The drinks flow as smoothly as the conversation, and the food—whether it’s a shared plate or something more substantial—holds its own against the neighborhood’s usual suspects.

Sports fans might appreciate the screens, though the focus stays on the food and drinks rather than the game. Coffee makes an appearance too, a small but practical touch for those who prefer to ease into the evening. The phone number, (212) 380-1232, is the simplest way to sort out timing or group size before heading over.

Finding the place is straightforward—directions are just a click away on the map. The area around Waterline Square has a way of feeling both central and slightly removed, as if it’s carving out its own rhythm amid the city’s usual pace. That balance might be why it works.