Superbueno is a colorful Mexican-American cocktail bar in New York City’s East Village. It’s received a wholesale share of glory this year on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 list. This warm, whimsical and creative café opened in 2023. It’s recently expanded into the former Boilermaker space at the busy Northeast corner of 1st Street and 1st Avenue. Within just over two years, Superbueno has climbed the ranks and now proudly holds the title of the second-best bar on the continent.
The bar’s innovative bartending and drink menu have powered its ascendance to fame. Take the Vodka Y Soda, for example, it’s a lightly sparkling guava highball that’s on everyone’s lips. Superbueno boasts a menu that highlights Mexican flavors, including the Roasted Corn Sour, which celebrates corn as an iconic ingredient of Mexican cuisine. Co-owner Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez welcomes newcomers to try the signature cocktails. In addition to local favorites such as pork belly tacos, Birria Grilled Cheese, and Mole Mushroom Nachos, he advocates for his native cuisine.
When we caught up with Jimenez, he told us how proud he was of Superbueno’s accomplishments and how the recognition has provided validation for their commitment to hospitality.
“It’s a true honor to be part of this list. This is a huge recognition and a validation of the way we approach hospitality, in our own SUPERBUENO style, that is based on community and the guest experience,” – Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez
The small scale of Superbueno means there’s been a line of enthusiastic fans queuing up to sit at the bar out almost every night. Once inside, guests will find multiple wooden booths as well as a large communal table. This arrangement contributes to creating an open environment that promotes socialization. Superbueno extends its service until approximately 1:30 AM every night, ensuring that guests can enjoy both drinks and food late into the evening.
Artist Jimenez, whose original artwork is featured across Superbueno, is passionate about every detail that goes into the customer experience. We take great care with every aspect of our hospitality, creating memorable experiences for each individual guest. Everything counts—from the food and drinks to the music, lighting, and your staff. They all perform an integral role, and they’re all equally important,” he said.
Beyond the innovative cocktails and party vibe, Superbueno’s pointed emphasis on connecting with the community has really struck a chord with diners. So, looking back on what they’d done, Jimenez said with pride, “I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished in just two years.” With bar concepts popping up left and right, Superbueno is particularly striking and refreshing. Its commitment to fusing artistic cultures with an avant-garde New York City-inspired cocktail scene fuels this anomaly.
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