Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY — Blue Tijuana
Overview of Blue Tijuana
Blue Tijuana is a Mexican restaurant located at 15-24 College Point Blvd, College Point, NY 11356, Estados Unidos. The venue blends Mexican classics with some Ecuadorian influences in a cozy, home-like atmosphere that many describe as lively and welcoming. Blue Tijuana is ideal for diners seeking flavorful tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, fresh ceviche, and creative cocktails; it also suits groups looking for an animated evening with live music or karaoke. For anyone searching for a neighborhood spot or the best Mexican restaurant in College Point, Blue Tijuana stands out for its warm service and memorable drinks.
What Blue Tijuana offers
Blue Tijuana centers its offer on traditional Mexican dishes—enchiladas, tacos, fajitas—and also includes Ecuadorian specialties such as pescado curtido and humitas, reflecting a diverse menu. The bar features notable cocktails, with passion fruit margaritas frequently praised by guests. Lunch specials are available Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, priced at $10 or $12, making it a convenient option for midday dining. Opening hours vary through the week, with extended late-night hours on Friday and Saturday: Mon–Thu 1:00 PM–10:00 PM, Fri 11:00 AM–11:00 PM, Sat 11:00 AM–2:00 AM, and Sun 11:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Customers interested in a quick weekday meal can explore the lunch menu in College Point for affordable options. Those planning special nights or group visits may consider a reservation policy in advance; guests can also look to book Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY for occasions such as birthdays or group dinners.
Menu and specialties
The menu highlights both hearty and shareable plates. Typical selections include:
- Starters and ceviches: fresh fish ceviche (PESCADO CURTIDO) and light, citrus-forward appetizers.
- Tacos and burritos: a variety of fillings, noted for fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.
- Fajitas and grilled mains: sizzling plates such as chicken fajitas praised for full flavor.
- Specials and homestyle items: humitas and solomillo are mentioned by guests as standout dishes.
- Drinks: passion fruit margaritas, classic margaritas, and a selection of cocktails for happy hour or a night out.
The restaurant accommodates vegetarians with clearly labeled options, and many patrons report generous portions. For those comparing options, looking up prices for lunch specials in College Point, NY helps gauge value before visiting.
Customer experience
Reviews consistently highlight several strengths: flavorful, authentic dishes, attentive and friendly staff, and a vibrant atmosphere that often includes live music, singers, dancers, and karaoke nights. Many guests describe the ambiance as cozy and immersive, with decorative touches that enhance the dining experience. Service is frequently praised as over-the-top or very pleasant, and a number of visitors return multiple times after an excellent first impression.
On the other hand, some variability in service and kitchen timing appears in the feedback. One review described a significantly slower experience with loud music, overcooked and bland items, and a long wait on a busy holiday; that visit led the guest to recommend avoiding the place at peak times. This suggests occasional inconsistencies depending on staffing and busy periods. Overall, the majority voice positive impressions, especially regarding signature drinks and standout dishes like solomillo and quesadillas.
Practical tips for visitors
To make the most of a visit to Blue Tijuana, consider these practical tips:
- For weekday lunches, take advantage of the lunch specials Monday–Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM for budget-friendly choices.
- Evenings, especially weekends with live entertainment or karaoke, can be lively; reservations or arriving early can reduce waiting times.
- Those seeking a quieter meal should aim for weekday afternoons or early evening Monday–Thursday when the restaurant tends to be calmer.
- Vegetarian diners will find suitable options, and families are welcome—many guests praise the space as neighborhood-friendly.
- Try the passion fruit margaritas and ceviche for popular signature tastes that many visitors recommend.
Summary of opinions
- Food quality and authenticity: Many guests praise the authentic Mexican and Ecuadorian flavors, calling dishes like PESCADO CURTIDO and solomillo exceptional.
- Service and hospitality: Numerous reviews note friendly, attentive staff and a welcoming owner presence, contributing to memorable visits.
- Ambiance and entertainment: The restaurant is frequently described as cozy and lively, with excellent music, live performances, and karaoke nights enhancing the experience.
- Neutral: On busy holidays or peak times, service and food timing may falter; one review reported long waits and overcooked items during a Father’s Day visit.
- Neutral: Price perception varies—while many find good value, at least one guest considered the place overpriced during a subpar visit.
Frequently asked questions and how to choose a Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY
Visitors often ask about pricing, timing, and suitability. Approximate expectations: lunch specials cost $10 or $12 Monday–Friday 11:00 AM–4:00 PM; dinner entrees vary by choice and portion size. Booking is recommended for larger groups or weekend entertainment nights. Blue Tijuana is a solid option when searching for Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY or the best Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY for vibrant nights out. Those looking specifically for quick midday meals should search for lunch specials in College Point, NY or prices for lunch specials in College Point, NY to compare deals.
For families and groups, queries such as Mexican restaurant for families in College Point, NY and Mexican restaurant near College Point Blvd are useful when planning visits. Cocktail enthusiasts might search for passion fruit margarita in College Point, NY or happy hour in College Point, NY with good value for money to find the best drink options. If authenticity matters, look up authentic Ecuadorian and Mexican food in College Point, NY or ceviche in College Point, NY to identify signature dishes before arriving.
In short, Blue Tijuana suits patrons seeking a lively neighborhood meal, memorable cocktails, and a blend of Mexican and Ecuadorian flavors. For those comparing local options, using search queries such as book Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY or deals on Mexican restaurant in College Point, NY can help secure a table for special evenings.