Móle

The perpetually packed Lower East Side spot, Móle, always felt too small to accommodate the demand for creative, regional Mexican food. Now the West Village has a chance to dig in to the wide ranging, traditional Mexican menu, too, at this Jane Street location. The expansive taco options include stalwarts like fish or braised beef, with some unexpected offerings like a pork loin, bacon and melted cheese variation. Large, stuffed burritos include everything from chorizo and carne asada to a spinach, cabbage and mushroom vegetarian variety. Those looking for a tortilla-free meal will find chiles rellenos, shredded pork wrapped in banana leaves and a pozole hominy and pork stew. After twenty years uptown with Taco Taco and three years with the original Móle, co-owner Nick Cervera feels the West Village is a logical next step because it's "a sophisticated neighborhood where people know good, authentic Mexican food. So far the neighborhood has really responded."

See more: Meatpacking District restaurants, Mexican restaurants