If you’re looking for the best ceviche in NYC, Mission Ceviche should be added to your list.
Firstly, we have to give credit where it is due. Unlike many other restaurants, Mission Ceviche came out of the pandemic in better shape than it was before the pandemic started.
You may remember Mission Ceviche as the casual takeout spot at food halls around the city. Today, those outposts have gone, but in their place is a highly rated, must visit restaurant serving the best ceviche in NYC. And don’t worry, the restaurant continues to serve up the pisco sours it was famous for next to delectable Peruvian bites.
Overview
We have to hand it to Mission Ceviche. It may just be the best ceviche in NYC right now (and probably has been for the past 5 years).
We were fans way back at the start when Mission Ceviche’s outpost was a fast casual restaurant in the Meatpacking District food market. Their handful of bar seats were a favorite spot to watch their chef fastidiously hand place every single herb on their ceviche bowl creations. Surprisingly ceviche bars don’t last in New York. Big chefs like Gaston Acurio tried with La Mar years ago, but it was not successful.
Fast forward a pandemic and with rising food costs, Mission Ceviche decided to pivot to a full-service restaurant. It was the right move though we miss those $20 massive bowls of fish, salad and rice.
However, the high standard of cuisine remains and Mission Ceviche is still the place to go to get your fix for Peruvian food in NYC.
Mission Ceviche’s kitchen is led by Chef Jose Luis Chavez who aims to provide a colorful, healthy menu bursting with flavor. To do this, Chavez uses a mix of modern cooking techniques and traditional flavors.
The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner until 10pm (10.30pm on weekends). There is a brunch served every Saturday and Sunday between 12pm and 4pm. Mission Ceviche also offers a happy hour on weekdays from 3pm to 6 pm. Reservations can be made online in advance or by telephone. Don’t panic if you can’t secure a reservation as the restaurant also delivers.
The Food
Mission Ceviche creates food that is flavorful and healthy. Half the battle with ceviche is to acquire fish and seafood that is fresh and in our many visits to the restaurant, their fish and seafood has always proved to be top quality. Plus, Mission Ceviche takes the presentation and the preparation to the next level of gourmet.
There are so many dishes to recommend that it is hard to know where to begin!
The Mixto ceviche has precise amounts of shrimp, mussels, squid and calamari, in a Rocoto tiger’s milk broth. It’s finished with just enough pieces of Peruvian corn, sweet potato and herbs. The flavors are fresh, sweet and savory. The textures are a delightful mix of soft and crunchy.
The flavor filled Japanese influenced tuna and watermelon ceviche is made with ponzu, wasabi taboo and a unique ginger foam.
One of our favorite bites is the Causa de Congrejo, which is a soft shell crab set on top of a mashed potato-like mousse, with zesty mango glaze. It’s a much lighter version of the causa we enjoyed in Peru.
Ceviche NYC also offers a Japanese menu of sushi rolls and bites. However, the Japanese offerings have a clear Peruvian influence, with yuzu emulsions, sweet potatoes and that typical Aji amarillo sauce. Also, there is a full suite of appetizers such as goat cheese salad and pan seared mushrooms.
From the Maine scallops to Spanish octopus, and from Filet Mignon to shredded chicken, there is something on the menu for everyone. Vegetarian options include a mouth watering Goats Cheese Salad made with Asian pear and Honey truffle.
Recommended sides include Yuca fried and sweet fried plantains. There are only two desserts to choose from, Algarrobine Tres Leches and a delicious chocolate crumble and raspberry mousse. So, if you are dining out as a couple, order one each and share. This food is truly a taste sensation so try as many dishes as you can.
Mission Ceviche has an extensive bar menu including wine, sake, beer, traditional and ‘inspirational’ cocktails. Their pisco sour cocktails are a must.
The food is a little on the pricey side for the size of the portions but the food is fresh, exciting and packed with flavor. You will remember dining here.
The Atmosphere
If you’re up for the best ceviche in NYC, the trip to the Upper East side on 2nd Avenue is worth the Uber. They did a nice job with the interior decor here as it’s simple, sleek and clean. Plus, the decor has attractive pops of color just like their food.
There is also a nice outdoor seating setup, but it is on 2nd Avenue, so it can be a little noisy. It’s much better to eat ceviche inside in the cool air conditioning.
The Service
The passion that all the staff feel for food is clear. There is professional, attentive service from the host all the way to the chef and waitstaff.
Overall: 7.8/10
FAQs
Q: Does Mission Ceviche offer brunch?
A: Brunch is served 11a.m.-4p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Q: When is Happy Hour?
A: Mission Ceviche is open for Happy Hour 3-6p.m. Monday-Friday.
Q: What is the rating of Mission Ceviche as per Galavante?
A: Galavante rates this restaurant 7.8/10. It’s worth the journey for the best ceviche in NYC. The food is flavorful, and the extensive menu calls for many visits to try it all.
Mission Ceviche Information
Address: 1400 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021
Hours:
Sunday 11a.m.-10p.m.
Monday 12-10p.m.
Tuesday 12-10p.m.
Wednesday 12-10p.m.
Thursday 12-10p.m.
Friday 12-10:30p.m.
Saturday 11a.m.-10:30p.m.
Phone number: 212-650-0014
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