Seemor
Las Panteras NegrasB+Worth Trying
2130 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10029
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (171 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Neighborhood Mexican spot with warm service, hearty portions, strong happy hour, and a few consistency gaps; overall a solid, good-value choice in East Harlem.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Las Panteras Negras delivers solid neighborhood Mexican dining anchored by exceptional service warmth and strong food quality featuring standout mole and chilaquiles. Inconsistent execution—occasional slow service and off-texture dishes—prevents a higher grade, while the modest, functional space lacks destination appeal. Loyal regulars and generous portions at fair prices make it a reliable neighborhood choice, especially during happy hour.
Restaurant Summary
A neighborhood Mexican spot where the room feels quaint and cozy and the staff gets noticed for being warm and attentive. Expect strong happy hour energy, celebratory touches, and plates that arrive looking like a full meal. One diner put it simply: "Service felt genuinely friendly and on top of things." The cooking leans classic and satisfying rather than flashy, with mole poblano, chilaquiles, tacos, and generous shrimp bowls drawing the loudest praise. It suits diners who want straightforward Mexican comfort with ample portions and a good drink deal, especially during weekend happy hour. Families will find approachable choices like quesadillas, tacos, and rice-and-beans, but there is no noted kids menu. One review flagged the vibe as not ideal for children at a particular time; overall, food is kid-accessible, though energy can pick up during happy hour.
At a Glance
- Friendly, attentive service with neighborhood warmth
- Generous portions; standout mole, chilaquiles, and shrimp bowls
- Weekend happy hour boosts value
- Occasional slow kitchen and inconsistent drinks
- Small space and layout quirks
What Sets It Apart
- weekend_happy_hour
- generous_shrimp_portions
- consistent_mole_and_chilaquiles
What People Love
- Feeling welcomed by friendly staff
- Hearty plates that do not skimp on protein
- Classic flavors like rich mole and crisp chilaquiles
- Happy hour value, including on Sundays
- Neighborhood comfort without pretense
Points of Concern
- Occasional slow food pacing noted by a few diners
- Mixed drink quality; margaritas can be hit or miss
- Small, cozy room with some awkward table layout
- Isolated report that a visit felt not family friendly at that time
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-$48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose a protein upgrade on chilaquiles for a fuller meal
- Fish or shrimp tacos for seafood fans; ask to balance crema and salsa
- Guacamole and elote to share before mains
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight tacos and margaritas
- Brunch with friends before exploring Harlem
- Happy hour meetups with solid snacks
- Solo meal at the bar with quick service
Location Insights
Area: Lively East Harlem corridor with neighborhood foot traffic, casual bars, and local eateries.
Safety: Generally active and fine for dining; standard urban awareness recommended at night.
Nearby: Near residential blocks, small shops, and other Latin eateries; convenient for locals and visitors exploring Harlem.
East HarlemEast Harlem offers a vibrant and culturally rich dining scene with a strong emphasis on Latin American and Caribbean cuisines alongside emerging trendy eateries. The social atmosphere is lively and community-oriented, reflecting the neighborhood's deep cultural roots and ongoing gentrification.
El BarrioEl Barrio is known for its strong Latino cultural identity, colorful street art, and authentic ethnic dining experiences. It maintains a neighborhood feel with family-run restaurants and community events, balancing tradition with gradual urban renewal.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–22:00
Tuesday10:00–22:00
Wednesday10:00–22:00
Thursday10:00–22:00
Friday10:00–23:00
Saturday09:00–23:00
Sunday09:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →