☞ CELEBRATE: Cinco de Mayo in Harlem

East Harlem's El Barrio now has a Mexican majority population so it is only natural to check out the new ethnic enclave for Cinco de Mayo. Here are some of the notable restaurants in the area that have a good balance of ambiance and food.  There's also the reliable Lolita's in South Harlem for those who live further west.

El Paso Taqueria, 1642 Lexington Avenue, between 103rd and 104th Street.  This is the largest of the two restaurants in East Harlem and is located right by the subway station at 103rd.

La Fonda Mexican Restaurant, 1634 Lexington Avenue, between 103rd and 104th Street.  This former retro diner space turned into a Mexican restaurant in recent years and is also right by the 103rd Street station.

El Paso Taqueria, 237 East 116th Street, between Second and Third Avenue.  The smaller version of the Mexican eatery further east but there's definitely enough charm to the space to make it worth while.

Mojito's, 227 East 116th Street, between Second and Third Avenue. Another small restaurant on 116th Street with a backyard patio.

Cafe Ollin, 339 East 108th Street, between Second and First Avenue. It's a hole in the wall but sort of works in kitschy way. The location isn't the best but the food is a standout here.

Lolita's Restaurant, 57 Lenox Avenue between 112th and 113th Street. The exterior on at Lolita's is pretty modest but one will find a surprisingly pleasant atmosphere and great food in the interior.