NYCReview

photo credit: Phil Yoon

Chavela’s review image

Chavela's

$$$$

736 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn
View WebsiteEarn 3X Points

Chavela’s serves some very good Mexican food, and it’s also one of the most fun restaurants in Crown Heights for hanging out with a group. As a result, the waits at this walk-in-only spot on Franklin Avenue can be pretty long. But they’re worth it, because once you get a table in what feels like someone’s very large and charming apartment, you’re going to want to hang out for the rest of the night. Start with the really good queso fundido with chorizo, and then fill your table with tacos and share plates like the chicken in a pool of mole, or the chile relleno. No matter what you get to eat, make sure to order some draft margaritas, too - they’re discounted during Happy Hour (weekdays until 7pm).

Sign up for our newsletter.

Be the first to get expert restaurant recommendations for every situation right in your inbox.


By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Food Rundown

Guacamole

Obviously, you want some on your table. Have you ever said no to guacamole? Who are you?

Queso Fundido

Hot melted cheese, Poblano peppers, black beans, a side of warm tortillas...this is what Mexico does best. It’s what Chavela’s does best too. A must order.

Sopa de Tortilla

An excellent example of tortilla soup. Not great for sharing, but sometimes it’s OK to be selfish. This is one of those times.

Pescado Tacos

The only tacos you should be eating at Chavela’s. These fish tacos are excellent.

Chile Relleno

A big Poblano pepper, stuffed with queso fresco. This is one of our favorite things to eat here/at any Mexican restaurant.

Huevos Rancheros

Simple. Delicious. Eggs and tortillas with refried beans. A strong brunch order to accompany your third margarita.

Chilaquiles

See, huevos rancheros, but with simmered tortilla chips and salsa verde or mole on top. I go with the tangy salsa verde, because it’s Sunday and I’m feeling lively. Results may vary.

Featured in

Suggested Reading

La Slowteria review image
Review

La Slowteria is a casual spot in Carroll Gardens that serves some of the best Mexican food in Brooklyn.

Calaca review image
Review

Calaca is a little cash-only Mexican spot in Bed-Stuy where you should drink flights of tequila while eating some great tacos and tostadas.

La Morada review image
Review

La Morada is a Mexican restaurant in Mott Haven with seven different kinds of mole, some excellent tacos, and many other things you’ll want to eat.

Tacos Matamoros review image
Review

Tacos Matamoros in Sunset Park is a great spot to share Mexican food with a group at lunch or dinner.

Infatuation Logo
2023 © The Infatuation Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FIND PLACES ON OUR APP

Get it on Google PlayDownload on the App Store