About Us
About Us
Carlitos Tequileria is more than just a restaurant; it's a journey through the heart and soul of Mesoamerica, with roots deeply embedded in the rich soil of diverse Latin American culinary traditions.
Our culinary roots didn't sprout from the polished kitchens of culinary schools, but from the raw, urgent pangs of necessity. As immigrants in the dawn of the '00s we were ushered into a period of discovery, bringing new friends and sun-drenched days in the park that seemed to stretch into eternity. Amidst the dance of flame and smoke, seasoned with camaraderie, the first embers of Carlitos' vision began to glow and grow.
Today, Carlitos Tequileria stands proud, a living, breathing testament to those formative years that shaped us. Our menu is a love letter to our journey - hand-pressed nixtamal corn tacos sit in harmony alongside Texas-inspired barbecue that echoes the smoky kisses of our park cookouts. As you sip our agave-based craft cocktails, you're not just tasting spirits: Our cocktails are liquid storytellers, narrating the rich history and diverse cultures of Latin America with every sip.
From the earthy tones of our decor, reminiscent of a modern hacienda warmed by memory, to the vibrant street art that adorns our walls, every element weaves another thread of our story. The high ceilings echo with phantom laughter from park gatherings long past, while lush greenery whispers of the open skies under which our culinary adventure first took root.
Welcome to Carlitos Tequileria
Our Cocktail Program
At Carlitos Tequileria, our cocktails celebrate the vibrant fusion of Mesoamerican and Latin American traditions, infused with the electric energy of NYC. At the heart of our bar, agave reigns supreme. This versatile plant serves as the cornerstone of our ambitious cocktail program, its essence captured in our extensive collection of artisanal tequilas and smoky mezcals.
We employ modern techniques to extract delicate flavors, create unexpected textures, and blend unique house-made ingredients. These methods allow us to craft drinks that surprise and delight, while still honoring the deep-rooted traditions of Latin American spirits.
We invite you to join us at Carlitos Tequileria and embark on this sensory journey, where every cocktail is more than just a drink—it's a story in a glass, a celebration of heritage, and a toast to the endless possibilities.
Our Culinary Mission
Our culinary mission is to create a space where the warmth of home meets the vibrant energy of street food, where every bite tells a story of heritage, family, and the immigrant experience.
As an immigrant growing up in Queens, I realized that being Latin American means embracing a mosaic of flavors, traditions, and shared experiences. It's about the tapestry of a home-cooked meal and the excitement of discovering new tastes on every street corner. Inspired by my grandmother's carniceria, where the art of butchery met the warmth of community, I learned that food is more than sustenance – it's a language of love and connection. This is why at Carlitos, we break down the borders and celebrate the unity of the Latin experience.
Our nixtamal corn tacos carry the whispers of ancient Mesoamerican traditions. Our Texas-inspired barbecue pays homage to the blending of cultures along borders. Our house-made salsas burst with the boldness that defines our people. And our wood-fired grill crackles with the same energy found in the lively streets of NYC.
At Carlitos Tequileria, our dishes are love letters to the streets of Mexico and resilience that runs through Latin American veins in the US – a testament to our ability to create beauty and flavor.