Superbueno

In the heart of New York City's East Village, Superbueno pulses with neon-lit energy and the soul of Mexican-American culture, where Ignacio "Nacho" Jimenez has created the city's most vibrant celebration of cross-cultural mixology. This isn't just another cocktail bar—it's a personal manifesto rendered in mezcal and cumbia rhythms.

Jimenez, the visionary behind this award-winning establishment, drew from his own journey from Mexico to New York to craft something unprecedented in the city's cocktail landscape. Partnering with industry veteran Greg Boehm, he transformed the storied 13 1st Avenue space into what feels like a modern Mexican-American Cheers. The bar's meteoric rise speaks volumes: ranked No. 27 on The World's 50 Best Bars 2024 and claiming the No. 2 spot on North America's 50 Best Bars, Superbueno has redefined what Mexican-American hospitality looks like in Manhattan.

The cocktail program showcases Jimenez's innovative approach to traditional Mexican ingredients, elevating guajillo chiles, xocolati bitters, and premium mezcals into contemporary masterpieces. The signature house tepache exemplifies this philosophy—a traditional fermented pineapple beverage transformed with tequila, shochu, fermented cucumber, yuzu, and chili de arbol into a large-format sharing experience. Each cocktail tells a story, whether through the smoky complexity of mezcal-forward creations or playful riffs on classic Mexican flavors. At approximately $20 per cocktail, the program balances premium craft cocktails with accessibility, ensuring the experience remains inclusive rather than exclusive.

Superbueno's design captures the exuberant spirit of its concept through vibrant neon lighting and colorful Mexican-American aesthetics that feel both authentic and thoroughly modern. The space encourages connection and community, with thoughtful layouts that facilitate conversation while cumbia beats provide the perfect soundtrack. Service strikes the ideal balance between professional excellence and genuine warmth—staff deliver high-level hospitality without intimidation, creating an atmosphere where both regulars and first-time visitors feel immediately welcome. The dress code remains refreshingly approachable, embracing the bar's inclusive ethos.

For luxury travelers seeking New York City's most dynamic cocktail experience, Superbueno offers something rare: a bar that celebrates cultural identity while pushing creative boundaries. Reservations aren't required but are recommended for peak evening hours when the energy reaches its crescendo. This is where Mexican-American culture meets Manhattan sophistication, creating an unforgettable night that lingers long after the last sip.