Finding a high-quality, reliable Mexican in New York is not easy. You have your cheap, decent Mexicans (Benny's Burrito's, etc.), and you have your high-end gourmet Mexicans (Dos Caminos, etc.). But El Centro serves variations of Mexican home cooking and street food with high-quality ingredients at affordable prices. Their burritos are arguably the best in town (especially the chili con carne burrito). They have great pozole (a shrimp & hominy soup). And they serve top quality margaritas in tumblers. Since it opened in 2006 it has been a neighborhood favorite in a hood full of restaurants. And since it opened, the owners have expanded into upscale Mexican territory with 'Hells Kitchen' a little further down 9th Avenue. El Centro is still hot. They play cool music, still attract celebrities, and waiting for a table on weekend nights is not unheard of. And try El Centro for Brunch, as they serve both Mexican and American brunch fare on weekends. Very highly recommended.