Cariñito – Creative Buzz, Disappointing Bite

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Score: 4

Balance Ratio: 2

Quality: 1

Service: 1

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Review

This Michelin-recognized taqueria from Mexico City landed in NYC with plenty of hype — and a hefty price tag. We tried every single item on the menu: four non-veg tacos, two veg tacos, guacamole, a corn rib, and a crunch wrap. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t come close to justifying the cost.

🌽 Corn Rib (Veg): The only standout. Juicy, flavorful, and actually felt inventive.

🌮 Veg Tacos (x2): Underwhelming and bland. Didn’t bring the complexity you'd expect at $8 a piece.

🌮 Non-Veg Tacos (x4): The Issan taco brought some heat and brightness. The rest were unmemorable and not worth the price.

🌯 Crunch Wrap (Veg): Difficult to eat and barely enjoyable — our least favorite item.

🥑 Guacamole (Veg): Basic and fine, but at this price point, “fine” isn’t good enough.

Final TakeThe corn rib is the only dish that lived up to expectations. The Issan taco had potential, but most of the menu felt overpriced and under-seasoned. Service started fine but ended poorly, with staff clearing and discarding food without asking. Cariñito has the hype and ambition, but neither the flavors nor the hospitality measured up. At $8 a taco, you can do much better in NYC — especially if you're expecting a thoughtful experience for both veg and non-veg diners.