One of our favorite vegan spots, JaJaJa, combines south-of-the-border flavor with NYC flair to create mouthwatering dishes.
Below their 63 Carmine Street location, the team operates Bar Nena—a Mexico City–inspired hidden lounge and NYC’s first Mexican fermented beverage bar. Though it officially opened its doors back in January 2024, it has managed to stay under the radar, remaining one of the neighborhood’s best-kept secrets.
The Vibe & Atmosphere
Accessed by an unmarked flight of stairs, Bar Nena is the epitome of a hidden NYC secret.
The moody, candlelit space seats 50 and pairs original stone walls with curved velvet banquettes, terracotta tiles, and vintage metallic-foiled wallpaper—with a sleek copper bar as the centerpiece.
Cinematic lighting and intimate seating make it an ideal West Village date night spot.
This is a place for unique cocktails, fun music, and great company – owner Nima Garos
What’s On The Drink Menu
Bar Nena’s menu channels the vibrant energy of Mexico City through handcrafted cocktails, probiotic fermented juices, and natural wines:
- Natural Wines & Beer: A thoughtfully curated selection of low-intervention wines and craft options that pair seamlessly with bright Mexican flavors
- Fermented Juices: Traditional Mexican ferments—including house-made tepache and fermented mixes—offering complex, balanced flavors to enjoy on their own or alongside agave spirits
- Agave & Native Spirits: Handcrafted cocktails featuring artisanal mezcal, tequila, Mexican gin, and agave-based rum
Plant-Based Bites To Pair
To complement the drinks, Bar Nena serves a lineup of Latin-inspired small plates designed for sharing:
- Guac Y Crudité: Served with crunchy taro chips, heirloom peppers, and crisp radish
- Chicharrónes: Classic Mexican wheel chips tossed con Tajín, Valentina, and fresh lime
- Ceviche Tacos: Bright and savory tacos featuring marinated watermelon, avocado, pickled red onion, nori, agave, and smoked paprika
- Tinga Empanadas: Warm, savory empanadas stuffed with trumpet mushrooms, chipotle, and carrot, topped with sour cream
There wasn’t a Mexican fermented beverage bar in the city, and we wanted to offer delicious options for those who want to enjoy a night out without compromising on quality. We’re hoping to create a sense of what it’s like growing up in Mexico City. – Garos
Plan Your Visit
- Location: 63 Carmine St (Lower Level), New York, NY 10014
- Hours: Thursday 5 pm – 1 am | Friday 5 pm – 2 am | Saturday 6 pm – 2 am
- Details: Learn more and view the current menu on Bar Nena’s website