Last Updated: 3 days ago
Phone: (954) 899-1304
Address: 6822 FOREST AVE 11385
Mexican-American fusion with killer cocktails and standout tacos, though some find it pricey.
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.
This Mexican-American spot in Ridgewood offers a fun, laid-back atmosphere perfect for groups and drinks. Chef Yara Herrera brings her Mexican heritage to life with flavorful small plates and tacos, like the highly recommended crispy lamb tacos and a massive 3-cheese empanada. While the cocktails are a definite highlight, with inventive options and happy hour specials, some diners find the prices a bit steep for the portion sizes.
Hellbender offers a Mexican-American cuisine with a focus on creative small plates and tacos. Popular dishes include the crispy lamb tacos, 3-cheese empanada, and unique Jello desserts. While many praise the flavors and innovative dishes, some patrons feel the tacos are small and expensive, with specific criticisms regarding the shrimp taco's portion size.
"Highlights include the crispy lamb tacos, 3-cheese empanada, and the mezcal cocktails. The heirloom masa pancakes are also recommended for brunch."
Customers generally have a positive view of Hellbender, appreciating its unique Mexican-American fusion and vibrant atmosphere. However, some find it to be overpriced for the portion sizes.
Important Note
Some customers have noted that the restaurant can be overpriced, particularly the tacos, with criticisms regarding portion sizes for the cost.
"Hellbender in Ridgewood is recommended for Mexican new wave cuisine."
Positive"This user found Hellbender to be a pretty forgettable place, despite its hype, in a discussion about restaurant experiences."
Negative"User DrFaustPhD estimates that a dinner bill for three at Hellbender, including appetizers, drinks, and entrees, would be around $150-$200, suggesting this is a reasonable price point for NYC dining."
Neutral"User DrFaustPhD clarifies that Hellbender's tacos are priced at $15 for three, not $8 each, and notes a happy hour deal of $13 for a margarita and three tacos, suggesting the previous user's assessment of its expensiveness was inaccurate."
Positive"User haribobosses points out the $8 price per "tiny taco" at Hellbender to support the argument that the New York Times reviews predominantly cover unaffordable restaurants."
Negative"The Original Poster reviewed Hellbender, highlighting their mezcal cocktail as a standout and enjoying the 3-cheese empanada and lamb tacos. Although the ribs al pastor were tough, they expressed interest in returning, particularly for brunch."
Positive"This user describes Hellbender as good, but notes that it is overpriced."
Neutral"This user indicated that Hellbender is not as good as other spots mentioned."
Negative"The user lists Hellbender as a 'non-traditional option' for pancakes, indicating a positive opinion."
Positive"This user definitively stated 'Hellbender no,' indicating a negative opinion."
Negative"This user suggested that Rolo's might be prioritizing its PR efforts for Hellbender, as Hellbender isn't performing well."
Neutral"User `petit_aubergine` expressed disappointment with Hellbender's tacos, stating that an order of two tacos cost $14-16. They found the shrimp taco particularly lacking, with very little shrimp in a small taco."
Negative"Recommends Hellbender in Ridgewood as a buzzy, worthwhile Mexican-American spot."
Positive
