Cuerno New York: A New Destination for Northern Mexican Flavors at Rockefeller Center

Cuerno New York: A Taste of Northern Mexico in NYC

This week marks the opening of Cuerno New York, a vibrant and contemporary Mexican steakhouse located in the historic Time-Life Building at Rockefeller Center. This exciting new venue celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Northern Mexico and aims to deliver an authentic dining experience that showcases the power of fire-driven cooking.

Cuerno New York is the brainchild of lifelong friends Alberto Martínez and Victor Setién, both hailing from Torreón, Mexico. Their venture stems from a shared passion for food and family, which has been the bedrock of their careers in hospitality. Over the years, they've worked diligently to fuse traditional Mexican recipes with modern culinary techniques, leading to the creation of Cuerno—a restaurant dedicated to honoring their roots while appealing to a global audience.

Alberto Martínez, co-founder of Cuerno and Costeño Group, expressed excitement about this New York City debut. He stated, "Bringing Cuerno to New York City has been a longtime dream. This opening represents the heart of who we are and where we come from. It’s a tribute to our roots, our culture, and the flavors we grew up with."

A Deep Commitment to Hospitality

At the core of the Cuerno experience is the brand’s philosophy of “el servicio más chingón,” which translates to the best service. The staff is dedicated to ensuring that every guest feels genuinely welcomed, reflecting the warm and attentive nature of Mexican hospitality.

From the moment diners walk through the door, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of camaraderie and warmth. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect, emphasizing the belief that food is best enjoyed together.

A Flavorful Journey Through Northern Mexico

Executive Chef Oriol Mendivil leads the kitchen at Cuerno, and he brings a wealth of experience to the table. He pays homage to the traditional methods of direct-fire grilling that are hallmarks of Northern Mexican cuisine. The menu at Cuerno is designed for sharing, featuring expertly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and a variety of signature tacos and regional specialties crafted with local ingredients.

At the heart of the culinary experience is the Josper Charcoal Oven, a compelling grilling device that imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the dishes. This oven is adept at high-heat cooking with natural charcoal, resulting in beautifully caramelized crusts while preserving the tenderness of the meats and vegetables.

Cuerno's menu is structured around four essential pillars: Carne Asada, featuring USDA Prime steaks aged for 21 days; Tacos de Autor, created with fresh, high-quality ingredients; Pescados y Mariscos, showcasing an array of seafood dishes; and Verduras Asadas, highlighting seasonal organic vegetables.

Drinks are equally as impressive. Beverage Director Ernesto Coronado has crafted a vibrant beverage program that honors traditional Mexican cocktails while introducing contemporary twists. Standout offerings include the smoky Cuerno Margarita and various artisanal cocktails, complemented by a selection of wines from renowned Mexican regions.

Design and Artistry

Cuerno’s aesthetic blends rustic charm with urban sophistication, as envisioned by the Mexican architecture firm A de Arquitectos. The interiors draw inspiration from the vibrant landscapes of Northern Mexico, featuring handcrafted wood elements, custom leather seating, and striking textures that create a warm yet elegant ambiance.

A defining feature of the dining area is a striking mural created by artist Federico Jordán, made from tiles embedded with soil from Northern Mexico. The mural tells a visual story of heritage and community while greeting guests with a salute of gratitude.

Visit Cuerno New York

Located at 1271 Avenue of the Americas, Cuerno New York is now open daily for lunch and dinner. With an ongoing commitment to creating memorable dining experiences infused with cultural richness and hospitality, Cuerno is set to become a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers in New York City.

For more information, visit cuernony.com. Reservations can be made through Resy, and walk-ins are also welcomed.