Seemor
The Calaveras NYCB+Worth Trying
949 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025
· Mexican restaurant, Bar, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (537 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively neighborhood Mexican spot with standout birria, margs, and a creative brunch; good value for quality, but service can be inconsistent and noise levels high.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Calaveras NYC delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by standout birria, mole, and margaritas that earn repeat visits. However, inconsistent execution and isolated maintenance concerns prevent a higher grade, while the hidden downstairs setting and welcoming service establish it as a respected local favorite rather than a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
From street level, you would not guess there is a lively dining room downstairs where the room feels warm and bustling. Service often gets shout-outs for kindness, and one guest said the staff "guided us to the tastiest items" while sipping excellent margaritas. Expect colorful plates, upbeat music, and the feel of a neighborhood gem. The cooking leans traditional Mexican with care rather than theatrics: birria with rich consomme, creamy enchiladas suizas, and a huitlacoche quesadilla that wins fans. Brunch is a sleeper hit, from steak and eggs to chilaquiles, and the bar mixes bold, fruit-forward margs without going sweet. For families, the menu has plenty kids will actually eat: burritos and quesadillas, pancakes at brunch, mild tacos, and sides like rice and beans. Noise can be lively, so early evening or brunch hours are easiest with little ones. Note the stair-only access to the main dining room.
At a Glance
- Birria, enchiladas, and margaritas consistently praised
- Welcoming neighborhood vibe in a hidden downstairs room
- Music can be loud; service pace varies by shift
- Stair access to main room limits accessibility
- Solid gluten-free and vegetarian coverage
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_downstairs_dining_room
- strong_birria_program
- robust_gluten_free_options
What People Love
- Rich, tender birria with consomme
- Balanced, flavorful margaritas
- Friendly, helpful staff guidance
- Cozy hidden dining room vibe
Points of Concern
- Music volume can be high for conversation at peak times
- Occasional service lapses during understaffed periods
- A few cleanliness and maintenance complaints; monitor bathrooms and vents
- Stairs to main dining area reduce accessibility for some guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$40-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For gluten-free: tacos, roasted corn soup, guacamole, roasted cauliflower
- For vegetarians: huitlacoche quesadilla, empanadas vegetarianas, coliflor rostizada
- For value: lunch enchiladas or burrito specials
Perfect For
- Casual date with craft margaritas
- Brunch with friends before a park walk
- Neighborhood taco night on deal days
- Gluten-free diners seeking options
Location Insights
Area: Residential Upper West Side corridor with neighborhood foot traffic and casual dining vibe near Central Park.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked; isolated reports of maintenance concerns outside.
Nearby: Near Central Park, schools, and apartment buildings; mix of cafes and casual restaurants.
Upper West SideThis neighborhood features a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, often frequented by locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and community-oriented, with many establishments catering to families and professionals seeking quality dining experiences in a safe and accessible environment.
West 100th Street CorridorThis micro-area along Columbus Avenue near 100th Street is known for its neighborhood-focused dining spots, offering a mix of casual and ethnic cuisines that serve the local community. It maintains a quieter, more intimate dining atmosphere compared to busier commercial strips.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–22:00
Tuesday08:00–22:00
Wednesday08:00–22:00
Thursday08:00–22:00
Friday08:00–23:00
Saturday08:00–23:00
Sunday08:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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