There’s no lack of Mexican eateries on Long Island, but if you’re looking for a place where the tequila flows generously and the food is made fresh, look no further than Besito in Roslyn.
Tucked into a strip of stores on Old Northern Boulevard, Besito offers patrons delicious Mexican fare in an elegant and contemporary atmosphere—an intimate, sophisticated ambiance that pairs well with the top-rate food and service.
A far cry from the chains and unoriginal eateries littering Long Island, Besito gives classic Mexican dishes a twist, pairing beloved staples with fresh, inventive flavors. Every dish, from guacamole, to tacos, to the beef short ribs and churros, is exquisitely prepared and the restaurant’s commitment to local and fresh ingredients is apparent with each bite.
Besito makes great boasts in their tableside guacamole and with good reason. Prepared in a traditional molcajete (the Mexican version of a mortar and pestle), the classic dip is simple yet stands out at Besito for its freshness and flavor. The chunky guacamole is served with warm chips, but also pairs perfectly with the warm and cheesy queso fundido—which combines baked queso Chihuahua, rajas, chorizo, cilantro and white onion. Another popular appetizer option is the crispy, jumbo lump crab cake, which is served with roasted habanero cream sauce, roasted corn salad and queso fresco.
If you’re sticking to the classics, you can’t go wrong with the iron skillet tacos. The pastor, which features pineapple, guajillo marinated pork tenderloin and grilled pineapple salsa, is a true standout on the menu, as is the carne asada. If you’re seeking a lighter option, go for the vegetable tacos, which blend organic baby spinach, crimini and button mushrooms, goat cheese, salsa and avocado.
Besito’s ability to elevate traditional dishes by incorporating unconventional ingredients is highlighted with the filete de res al chipotle—filet mignon marinated in Negra Modelo and topped with plantains, which add a sweetness. Plantains also make an appearance on the flavorful enchiladas mixtas—skirt steak and grilled chicken enchiladas with chorizo and guajillo cream salsa. Another signature item on the menu is the decadent budin de mariscos, a tortilla pie of shrimp and jumbo lump crab, spiced tomato salsa, queso Chihuahua, mild poblano cream sauce and pico de gallo. Entrées come with rice and beans, but the tasty elotes de la calle—roasted street corn with queso fresco and chile molido—is the perfect addition to any meal.
Besito, which is known as a great Happy Hour option, doesn’t neglect the thirsty either. The signature Besito Patron margarita, with pomegranate and tangerine juice, is a refreshing summer choice and the frozen La Casa Margarita is a favorite among guests. The sangria is also a great choice, as are the tequila flights.
End your meal with the creamy tres leches cake, topped with fresh fruit. And if you’re still not stuffed, enjoy the complimentary churros or take them home to keep your Besito buzz going.
Besito, 1516 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn; 516-484-3001; www.besitomexican.com.
