La Barca Cantina: A Floating Fiesta on the Hudson

Nestled at Pier 81 on West 41st Street, La Barca Cantina offers a unique twist on dining out in New York City—it’s the city’s first and only floating Mexican restaurant. Board this luxurious yacht and you’ll find not just a restaurant, but a festive voyage along the Hudson River.

Ambiance: The ambiance of La Barca Cantina is truly unmatched. With an enormous outdoor deck and two chic, temperature-controlled indoor decks, the setting is perfect for enjoying breathtaking views of the iconic New York skyline. Ambiance Rating: 10/10

Food: We started with their margaritas—opting for the tamarind and pomegranate pitchers. Priced effectively ($18 a pitchers), these drinks offered a zesty kick, providing around two margaritas per person (4 people in a group). These were a delightful start, with the tangy tamarind standing out as a crowd favorite. 🍹 Drink Rating: 9/10

The nachos were next—a generous heap of chips loaded with guacamole. While the guacamole was plentiful, a bit more cheese would have made them perfect. Nonetheless, they were a solid appetizer. 🧀 Nachos Rating: 7/10

The highlight, however, was the impressive taco tower. Comprising 21 tacos, this tower was a feast. The shrimp tacos packed a spicy punch and were the standout, followed closely by the flavorful chicken and succulent pork tacos. Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with delicious mushroom tacos included in the mix. 🌮 Taco Tower Rating: 8/10

Value: While the prices lean towards the higher end, especially since you have to pay for the boat ticket (about $20) the overall experience—from the floating setting to the quality and uniqueness of the food—justifies the expense. Affordability Rating: 5/10

Overall Experience: Dining at La Barca Cantina is more than just eating out; it’s a full sensory experience. As the boat glides past the Statue of Liberty, especially at night, the view adds a magical touch to the meal. This is a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists looking for a special night out in New York City.

Final Rating: Food: 8/10, Affordability: 5/10, Ambiance: 10/10

Recommendation: Don’t miss the taco tower and be sure to get there early to catch the sunset!