When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Iguana New York
Why Iguana New York is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Iguana New York is a lively Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, offering a dynamic atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. With three floors dedicated to dining and dancing, it is tailored for those looking to enjoy flavorful Mexican cuisine alongside a vibrant nightlife experience. The restaurant is particularly famous for its extensive selection of cocktails, featuring 28 flavors of Margaritas and Mojitos, making it a hotspot for groups celebrating special occasions like birthdays and bachelorette parties. The venue combines great food, inventive drinks, and a multi-level space that includes an intimate dance lounge to keep the night going. Despite some critiques regarding food and service, many patrons appreciate its location, generous portions, and engaging ambience, often returning for the overall enjoyable experience. Whether you want to share a meal, sip expertly crafted cocktails, or dance late into the night, Iguana New York stands out as a versatile destination for social gatherings in the city.
Here's what people think of Iguana New York
As of recent, Iguana New York holds a 4-star rating based on 2564 reviews.
User reviews for Iguana New York present a mixed but insightful picture. Positive reviews highlight the restaurant's prime location in Midtown, the vibrant multi-level layout, and the extensive drink menu that includes a wide variety of Margaritas and Mojitos. Many guests praise the lively atmosphere and exceptional service from staff members who contribute to a memorable experience, making it a favorite spot for both lunch and dinner. The generous portions and flavorful Mexican-inspired dishes delight numerous patrons, who often cite the restaurant as a go-to destination when visiting New York City. However, negative reviews focus heavily on inconsistent food quality, with some customers describing dishes such as coconut shrimp and chicken nachos as overcooked or lacking authenticity. Other criticisms address slow or rude service experiences, and some customers feel the food does not accurately represent traditional Mexican cuisine. Despite these complaints, the overall sentiment shows that Iguana New York maintains a reputation as a fun and festive place to enjoy drinks and social occasions, making it especially appealing as a group destination. The mixed reviews suggest that while not perfect, the combination of atmosphere, drinks, and ample space frequently outweighs occasional shortcomings in food and service for many visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ian
Food was great. Drinks were good. Service started off very well but quickly trailed off a few minutes after we sat down. The first round of drinks came very quickly - within a few minutes. But....then we waited and waited. Nobody came back to take our order, another round of drinks, fill up water, etc. 35 minutes after sitting down and about 10 minutes after I'd finished my drink, we had to wave the waiter over to order our mains. We ordered and then when food came, wanted drinks 5 minutes before happy hour ended. However, the waiter told us it was too late...we looked at the time but he just walked away. We didn't see the waiter again until we got up to pay because the waiter was MIA. We were there for more than 1.5 hours and it was very quiet. There were about 3 or 4 other tables. We got no water refills the entire time and nobody checked on us after the food arrived. The place is great, the food is fantastic, the staff is friendly - when they remember you exist. They started off as 5 stars because the service was so good to begin with. Sadly it didn't continue. Great food but don't think I'll be back any time soon.
Pooja Rao
Nice place.. nice vibe. Really liked the holiday decor and the holiday atmosphere. The restaurant was brimming with happy faces when we dined Friday evening. A wide range of cocktails to choose from - really enjoyed their cocktails. Food was average. Not too great. The quantity of food servings were very less. For the cost they charge us, they can certainly give more quantities. We explored both the nightclubs at around 10. Not any vibe as such. Hardly a handful of people - Just a few people dancing to themselves. May be it gets better later in the night.
Mama Love
We went to see MJ at The Neil Simon Theater. Brown said the wings were good, Robinson had the calamari and chicken sandwich w fries. The calamari was rubbery, and grilled chicken was hard and dry. My nachos were horrible, the beef was mushy- no seasoning. I didn't understand how you can have Happy Hour drinks and not food. I won't be going back. Now the drinks he made was good.
Mz.Moccaa
We stopped in to get some food before we headed to the Neil Simon Theater to see MJ. They had happy hour drinks but not food that I don't understand at all. The food wasn't great - the nachos weren't good, grilled chicken was dry and hard, calamari was rubbery, but the wings were said to be good. Now, the mango margaritas he made was on point.
Jude Jhons
This restaurant catches your eye. You get what you pay for and more. Their team creates pleasant experiences. You get satisfying amounts for what you spend. Zero complaints about my time spent here.
How to reach Iguana New York
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Why Iguana New York may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Iguana New York with your friends?\ Meeting up with friends calls for a venue that offers more than just food—it requires an atmosphere that sparks energy, laughter, and lasting memories. Iguana New York, with its vibrant ambiance and dynamic offerings, stands out as a premier destination for group gatherings. Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this Mexican restaurant and lounge blend rich flavors with a lively social environment, making it a top choice for both casual friend meetups and special celebrations. The spacious layout across three floors ensures your group can find a perfect spot, whether you prefer an intimate dinner or a bustling dance floor. Beyond just a meal, Iguana New York provides an immersive experience with its extensive menu featuring authentic Mexican cuisine, an impressive selection of 28 margarita and mojito flavors, and a downstairs dance lounge for those ready to party. The blend of great food, crafted cocktails, and a vibrant nightlife vibe creates the ideal backdrop for groups wanting to connect, celebrate, and enjoy New York’s energetic nightlife scene all in one location. This is why rallying at Iguana New York with your friends promises an unforgettable NYC hangout.
What activities can you enjoy at Iguana New York for group meetups?\ Iguana New York offers an array of activities that cater to different types of group gatherings, ensuring there’s something for everyone in your party to enjoy. For starters, the three floors of the venue are thoughtfully designed to accommodate dining, socializing, and dancing. On the main floor, groups can enjoy a sit-down dinner featuring Mexican staples like freshly made guacamole, flavorful tacos, and specialty dishes that highlight regional flavors. This dining area encourages conversation and relaxation in a lively yet comfortable setting.
For cocktail enthusiasts, Iguana is famous for its 28 unique flavors of margaritas and mojitos, which can turn an ordinary night into a festive celebration. Sampling different cocktail creations becomes an entertaining group activity in itself, especially given the expert mixology on display. After dinner, groups seeking a more electric atmosphere can head to the intimate downstairs dance lounge, where a DJ spins the greatest dance music, inviting everyone to hit the floor and let loose. This multi-level setup offers the perfect balance of dining pleasure and nightlife excitement all under one roof, making it ideal for groups looking to enjoy a full evening out.
Why is Iguana New York perfect for hosting birthdays and special celebrations?\ Celebrations require a venue that feels special and can accommodate the energy a big group brings. Iguana New York shines in this regard thanks to its dedicated event packages designed specifically for birthdays, bachelorette parties, and other special occasions. The restaurant’s “dinner and V.I.P.” add-ons provide groups with personalized service and exclusive seating areas that elevate the party experience. This tailored approach means hosts don’t have to worry about logistics—they can focus on celebrating while the staff handles the details.
Moreover, the festive Mexican-themed decor and the lively mood created by the music and lighting set a celebratory tone from the moment guests arrive. The extensive cocktail menu allows celebrants to toast with a variety of creative and colorful drinks, adding to the sense of occasion. With a mix of dining, drinks, and dancing all available without leaving the venue, Iguana offers convenience alongside its vibrant party atmosphere. This makes it a perfect place to gather for events that need just the right balance of excitement and comfort for everyone in the group.
What makes the food and drink experience at Iguana New York stand out for groups?\ Dining at Iguana New York is more than a meal; it’s an exploration of Mexican cuisine paired with innovative beverages that awaken the senses. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes crafted to be shared, such as flavorful tacos, hearty enchiladas, and freshly prepared ceviche, making it ideal for groups who enjoy sampling a variety of flavors together. The vibrant, bold tastes provide a perfect complement to social dining, encouraging sharing and conversation.
The drink menu is a highlight, offering a broad selection of cocktails with 28 different margarita and mojito varieties, crafted to suit every palate—from sweet and fruity to spicy and bold. This extraordinary variety invites groups to try new flavors and discover favorites, transforming the act of drinking into a fun group experience. Skilled bartenders ensure that every drink is expertly made, maintaining high quality even during busy nights. For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, Iguana also provides flavorful alternatives, ensuring everyone in the group feels included. This food and drink synergy creates a festive culinary journey perfect for friends and family gatherings.
How does the location and ambiance of Iguana New York contribute to a memorable group outing?\ Situated in Midtown Manhattan, Iguana New York benefits enormously from its prime, central location. This accessibility is a major advantage for groups coming from various parts of the city or visiting from out of town. Being in a bustling area close to theaters and other attractions, Iguana easily fits into an evening’s broader plans, whether as a starting point or as the highlight of a night out.
The venue’s ambiance plays a pivotal role in setting the mood for group gatherings. Its interior balances the warmth of Mexican-inspired decor with a modern, chic vibe that appeals to a diverse crowd. Three floors to explore mean groups can choose their preferred atmosphere—whether that’s the upbeat main dining room full of lively chatter or the more intimate underground lounge perfect for dancing the night away. The lighting, music, and attentive service create a welcoming yet energetic environment where groups feel comfortable both sharing moments over dinner and celebrating with music and dancing later on. This well-rounded experience, coupled with the convenient urban spot, makes Iguana New York a standout choice for group meetups.
What should groups expect regarding service and pricing at Iguana New York?\ While Iguana New York is widely praised for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, reviews indicate a mixed experience with service and pricing, which is important for groups to consider. Many positive comments highlight the friendly and accommodating staff, especially when hosting large parties and special events where service tends to be more attentive and personalized. However, some reviews mention slower service and occasional inattentiveness during peak times, which can impact the overall experience, especially for larger groups requiring coordinated meal timing.
Regarding pricing, Iguana New York is generally regarded as mid-to-high range, which aligns with its prime location and upscale multi-floor ambiance. Groups can expect that appetizers, entrees, and especially cocktails may be a bit pricey compared to average eateries, reflecting both the quality of ingredients and the vibrant nightlife setting. For groups mindful of budget, pre-arranged dinner and VIP packages may offer better overall value and streamline costs. Being aware of these factors helps set realistic expectations, allowing groups to plan accordingly and maximize enjoyment during their visit.
In summary, Iguana New York presents a lively, versatile, and culturally rich venue perfect for friends and families looking to gather in the heart of NYC. Its extensive food and drink options, multi-level space with a dance lounge, and tailor-made event packages create an engaging setting for socializing, celebration, and nightlife fun. While there are some mixed reviews about service and price, the overall appeal of Iguana remains strong for those seeking a dynamic place to host meetups that offer more than just dinner. With an atmosphere designed to keep groups entertained from cocktail hour through the last dance, Iguana New York certainly earns its reputation as a go-to spot for memorable gatherings.