Bodega Negra – Dreamy Vibe Under The Dream Hotel

So you are in the mood for something hip, cool, swank, fun and Mexican, then Bodega Negra in the meatpacking district is the place for you. Bodega Negra is a modern Mexican restaurant in the Dream Hotel. The restaurant  is a visual artistic treat.  Bodega Negra is a collaboration between the Tao Strategic Group, Serge Becker of La Esquina, Will Ricker and Ed Spencer Churchill(Ricker & Chuchhill are the owners of Bodega Negra in London)

Upon passing by, you will think this restaurant is just a cafe but walk a little further down the steps and past the big golden doors and you will feel like you just walked into a dreamy, romantic cellar.  It will take a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the darkness as the place is mostly lite by candlelight.  The cave like atmosphere immediately reminded me of my favorite Mexican restaurant in New York City, La Esquina.  The walls are beautifully adorned with antique tequila barrels and the most eye-catching piece is a disco like ball in the center of the room that is adorned with 10,000 pennies.  The dining room has an eclectic vibe with vintage guitars, animal hide covered upholstery and reclaimed tables.  The private dining room which accommodates 18-24 people is the perfect place to drink, eat and have a memorable party with friends.

Chef Michael White  has created modern Mexican food with a twist.  Everything on the menu is served family style and is great for sharing.  The perfect way to start this meal is with a traditional round of margaritas and guacamole. Try the spicy jalapeno margarita and order the grilled corn which is charred just perfectly and garnished with chipotle aioli and queso cotija.  The ceviche is fresh and delectable, and the tacos are great for sharing, try a variety, all the tacos are delicious.  The most memorable part of the evening was the desserts.  This hot spot has become most famous for its presentation of the Don Huevo, a dome-shaped dark chocolate molten cake served with a Negra Modelo caramel sauce.  Be prepared for a oooohhh and aaaahhhh moment when the hot caramel is poured over the cake, thus collapsing its outer shell.  The Don Huevo was wonderfully presented and lived up to all the hype, but my favorite dessert was the Tres Leches Cake, which was perfectly moist and delicious.  The desserts were my favorite part of the meal and they made me so happy and made the evening just perfect

Bodega Negra also knows how to throw a party.  It take a dull Monday night and creates a fun, festive atmosphere that turns the restaurant into Loco Monday.  You start the evening with cocktails and dinner and after midnight the restaurant turns into a big dancing on the tables kind of party.  Every week Bodega Negra brings out the sombreros, maracas, entertainment, and live music to create a high energy, club like feel in this gorgeous space.  Reservations for Loco Mondays are highly recommended.

Whether with a big group or a romantic evening, this place will surely please.  I recommend the restaurant for two reasons, its sexy scene and the its delectable desserts.  I will certainly make another stop at Bodega Negra for the hip scene and the sweets.