When La Esquina opened in 2005 it was a breath of bright air, offering enjoyably fresh cuisine that stood tall among the paltry selection of Manhattan Mexican. Thankfully, the city's south-of-the-border dining scene has evolved since then. However, La Esquina remains a worthy option. More playground than restaurant, the multi-faceted setting takes up an iconic downtown corner and draws a hip crowd to the grab and go taqueria, 30-seat café, and lively subterranean dining room and bar amplified by a nightly DJ soundtrack. The spirit here is not just alive but kicking with classic renditions of tortilla soup; mole negro enchiladas filled with excellently seasoned chicken; as well the likes of carne asada starring black Angus sirloin with mojo de ajo.