DOLORES — Restaurant in New York

Am I crazy for giving it 3 stars? To me, the food was just okay. I understand why they price the way it is as the dishes come in tiny, single portions. The service was attentive, and the atmosphere definitely has a vibe. But the acoustics made it so loud that it was hard to hear anything, people were practically shouting just to have a conversation. It doesn’t help that the tables are packed closely together in a small space, which only amplifies the noise.

To me, this place is more of a cute date spot for tapas. A drink and a few small bites. If you're looking to leave satisfied, I left still hungry despite ordering multiple dishes. And for portions that small, I was surprised at how long it took for the food to come out.

The consomé was fine but probably the most underwhelming just a few shreds of chicken with some beans, and barely any rice. The aguachile was good, but I wish it came with more chips; I ran out before I could finish the dish, which was a shame because I really enjoyed the texture. The gordita de chicharrón was also tasty, but again, way too small for my liking!

I wasn’t dissatisfied, but I also wouldn’t go out of my way even though it’s in the neighborhood unless I’m craving small snacks...

Just come here for the vibes. The Chile relleno taco was outstanding. But everything else was underwhelming. The ambience is friendly and inviting. But the reviews on the food are not true. $8 for a Carne Asada taco is not only pricey, but the taste doesn’t match the price. I would also skip the Cochinita Pibil tacos, as all the juice is just left on the plate and not coming directly from the meat. The pickled onions in the tacos were pretty good. I’ve come here two times already. Both on a Monday evening after 10 PM as the kitchen closes at 11 PM , and you can just walk in instead of waiting more than an hour. Both times the service has been AMZAZING. But the cocktails don’t deliver. There’s no complexity in the drinks. There’s no contrast or flavors that complement one another. these are drinks that can most likely be made at your local dive bar for half the price (the presentation juat won’t be as nice) . I would go back. But just to get chills relleno taco, I need to try the Aguachile, and they also have Modelo Negra on draft which is always a...

The perfect addition to the neighborhood. They really embody the definition of hospitality with no unnecessary rules or pretension but two well-defined areas of service with the bartop and standing rail space backed up to their very comfortable dining room that lends well to small groups.

Bar: comfortably spaced and intimate enough for a date but they encourage standing room you’ll always have a place to be. Service is attentive and questions are encouraged.

Drinks: thoughtfully appointed list with enough unique and exotic products that you will feel transported. But most of the cocktails still taste familiar. Ask the bartenders- they know their stuff and will direct you. The michelada, jerk batanga, and arroz con leche won’t be soon forgotten.

N/A: options include standards, a house made tepache, and a non-alc version of their michelada.

Food: fine-dining-level preparation of authentic Mexican dishes. Lots of small/medium plates worth making a full dinner of.

Service: impeccable- no notes.

Bathroom:...