Ofrenda

 

Ofrenda recently dethroned Mexicana Mama as my favorite Mexican restaurant, because lets be honest, Mexicana Mama is delicious, but no reservations and 10 tables is a recipe for disappointment.  Friends and I stumbled upon Ofrenda on a Saturday night after a rave new restaurant review, which apparently was dated, because Ofrenda has been open for a little under one year.  Ofrenda is unique and sets itself apart from the other ho-hum Mexican restaurants in Chelsea because it is light and tasty and dares to attempt Mexican fusion.  The chef is from Mexico but used to work at Bouley, and he surprises with unexpected menu options and a no-frills atmosphere.  After decadent cocktails like the Jalapeno Margarita and a lime and mint champagne-infused rum drink called the Old Cuban, the gals and I settled down for lots of plate sharing.  The enchiladas with corn truffle, cauliflower, black beans, and vegetable rice were the obvious winner of the night.  For sides, the asparagus and mashed potato dishes brought in the fusion and took simple staples and spiced them up with toppings like warm cotija cheese.  After a meal for kings we almost broke out in applause when the check came back as only $38 a person.  To top it all off, the proprietor gave us shots on the house for dessert (clearly he knew his audience).  20 infinity stars to Ofrenda!