TLDR
Innovative Mexican-American small plates and masa pancakes served in a relaxed, vibrant Ridgewood setting. A must-visit for creative cocktails and fun group outings.
Willa Moore reviews Hellbender, a Mexican-American restaurant in Ridgewood that excels in its relaxed ambiance and flavorful small plates and tacos. It's highlighted as a great spot for drinks and group gatherings.
Morgan Carter reviews Hellbender, a new Mexican-American restaurant in Ridgewood from Gramercy Tavern alums, highlighting its cocktails, chef Yara Herrera's heritage-inspired dishes, and unique ambiance.
Details
A laid-back Mexican-American staple in Ridgewood, this spot serves up innovative small plates, flavorful tacos, and unique brunch offerings like their signature heirloom masa pancakes [1], [3]. Helmed by industry veterans, the restaurant balances a fun, casual atmosphere—complete with a rotating jello of the day—with high-quality tequila and mezcal cocktails [2]. It has earned recognition as one of the city's top dining destinations, making it an ideal choice for group gatherings [3], [4].
Food Overview
The menu features a creative take on Mexican heritage, highlighting standout items such as crispy lamb tacos, fried Oaxacan cheese, and thick, custardy heirloom masa pancakes [1], [3]. While most dishes are highly regarded, some visitors have found the pork ribs al pastor flavors to be somewhat muted [1].
Caveats
Potential diners should be aware of reported service inconsistencies, including issues with waitlists and seating, as well as relatively small portion sizes [1], [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HELLBENDER
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One
"The commenter recommended the chicken milanesa at Hellbender."
PositiveFrom post: Does Amex Platinum Actually Make It Easier To Get
"Commenter stated that with an Amex Platinum card, they were able to secure desirable brunch spots at Hellbender with only a couple days' notice due to priority notifications."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Pancake Recommendations With Not
"Hellbender was mentioned as a place with good pancakes, although the user suggested getting a reservation."
PositiveFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter found Hellbender to be consistently disappointing despite its inclusion on the list."
NegativeFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter highlighted Hellbender as a cool turnaround story, noting its successful pivot from a 'high end dive' bar to one of the city's best restaurants."
PositiveFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"This is one of many restaurants listed by the commenter from the NYTimes list."
NeutralFrom post: Birthday Dinner Tonight Thurs May 7 Brooklyn Or
"hellbender was listed as a restaurant where the original poster might be able to stay under $60 per person with drinks, by limiting to one entree and one drink each. This suggestion was made in the context of a tight budget."
NeutralFrom post: Another Pancake Question I Know Dont Hate Me
"Hellbender in Ridgewood is recommended for its really good, thick masa version of a popular pancake style."
PositiveFrom post: Another Pancake Question I Know Dont Hate Me
"Hellbender is listed among several other restaurants, including Chez Ma Tante, Comal, Super Nice Pizzas Brunch, and Jeans Lafayette."
NeutralFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"This commenter had a negative experience attempting to get a table at Hellbender. After being told to wait at the bar, they were later informed they were not on the waitlist and faced a significant wait time, with the hosts appearing to laugh as they left."
NegativeFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"The commenter suggests that the pineapple margaritas at Hellbender are great. They also advise against posting about the restaurant on r/ridgewood due to perceived unusual hate towards the establishment there."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"In response to a recommendation for Frijoleros, this commenter enthusiastically endorses Hellbender for its cocktails."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"The commenter found the lamb dish and the cocktails at Hellbender to be excellent."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"This commenter believes Hellbender is run by the same people as Rolo's and had a satisfying meal there that was not overly expensive."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"This commenter recommends Hellbender for brunch, specifically praising their masa pancakes."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"This commenter specifically enjoyed the pancake served at Hellbender during brunch."
PositiveFrom post: Went To Hellbender In Ridgewood
"The original poster visited Hellbender in Ridgewood, Queens, for Mexican food and cocktails. They found the skirt steak, calamari, oysters, churros, and polar punch cocktail to be decent, though a bit pricey with small portions. Overall, it was considered worth checking out."
NeutralFrom post: Staying In The Bushwick Area This Visit And
"Hellbender in Ridgewood is recommended for Mexican new wave cuisine."
Positive