It’s no secret that Staten Island has no shortage of good restaurants, however “cool” restaurants are few and far between. If you are a millennial foodie like me, you are eating out on the regular so finding a local “hot spot” where you can eat, drink and enjoy yourself at a reasonable price is like finding a unicorn. Enter Gringo’s Tacos at Navy Pier.

From the moment you walk through the doors at Gringo’s Tacos, you know you are in for a treat. The walls are lined with old school video games and Skee Ball bays filling the air with the unmistakable symphony of arcade bells, lasers and music sparking the excitement of our inner child and making it difficult to wait to be seated. 

Dead center and across from the doors is an attractive bar stacked high with bottles of tequila from around the world. In addition to tequila, Gringo’s Tacos offers a quality assortment of beer, tasty sangria, street teas, margaritas and punches. The perfectly mixed specialty drinks are served in a clear plastic pouch which you drink through a straw – another nod to our inner child. For a truly social drinking experience, they offer a punch bowl for the table with enough punch for four people.

If you are one of those people who have a hard time deciding which of the many libations to try, Gringo’s Tacos offers a “cocktail flight” for $16 – and the portions are generous.

Enjoying a cocktail while playing arcade game is that much better when you know that you have a plate of good food waiting for you at your table. Gringo’s Tacos has that covered too. From traditional Mexican fare such as guacamole, nachos and ensalada tostadas to the completely unexpected cashew hummus, duck, octopus and vegan tacos, the kitchen at Gringo’s Tacos delivers fresh, flavorful dishes to satisfy the adventurous and not so adventurous palates. 

Dinner at Gringo’s Tacos including libation, appetizers, main course and dessert comes in at about $40 per person – a true bargain for great food, quality drinks and a truly social experience.

Gringo’s Tacos is located at 24 Navy Pier, Staten Island, New York 10304. Guests can order in or take out, 917 423 2450.