This Lower East Side hotspot offers a menu of Mexican-Asian fusion food, and - launching in time for Cinco de Mayo - a new Mexican disco in the basement lounge, in the form of Tico's Tequila Shack.

Tijuana Picnic comes from industry vets Jean-Marc Houmard, Jon Neidich, and Hui Chi Le, formerly of Indochine and Nolita nightlife hub Acme, making it a Lower East Side hotspot before it had even opened. The style is colorful and fun, with a retro 1970’s basement vibe: wood panelling, leather booths, and tequila-bottle lamps. 

The kitchen, which is run by Mexican Alex Lopez – who previously worked at Kittichai - produces a menu of inventive Asian-Mexican fusion, creative Latin dishes infused with Indian, Vietnamese and Chinese flavors. Cocktails come from expert mixologist Jim Kearns (NoMad, The Happiest Hour), who sticks to theme with ingredients including avocado, tomatillo, and poblano peppers. 

Upstairs dine on hand-painted communal tables, or head downstairs to Tico’s Tequila Bar, officially unveiled on Cinco de Mayo, with 70 different kinds of tequila and 30 kinds of mescal, and DJs most nights of the week creating a late-night Mexican disco. 

Ideal For

East meets West with a twist

Favorite Room

Basement bar is where to drink on Essex Street.

Signature Dishes

Muslos de pollo (galangal-marinated chicken, guacamole, scallion, chicken chicharron) or the Puerquito served family style - pork chop marinated in coconut milk and thai spice chimichurri.

Signature Drinks

Mi Hermano, a take on a Manhattan made with Reposado tequila, Montenegro, Fernet Branca, Dolin rouge, Mole bitters.