This bright, cheerful Mexican gem can be found in the Soundview section of the Bronx, which was once upon a time lined with Italian flags, bakeries and butchers. Today, you’ll find a global collection of restaurants, including south-of-the-border hot spots, pan-African grocery stores, Puerto Rican lechoneras and Dominican diners.

Breakfast at El Molcajete kicks off with delicious egg sandwiches, with a Mexican twist. Lunch brings mouthwatering tacos, tortas and cemitas—served with smoky red and spicy green sauces on the side. Don’t miss the sumptuous gordita, a thick masa cake filled with luscious pork and then floated with cilantro, smooth crema and serrano peppers; or the tender cabeza de res (cow head) and gamey barbacoa (barbecue goat) tacos.