Cocina Clara, a Mexican restaurant in the East Village known for its traditional dishes and casual atmosphere, has closed permanently. The restaurant operated at 112 Avenue A since 2019 and announced the closure via social media earlier this week. Owner Maria Delgado cited rising rents and supply chain difficulties as factors in the decision to close.
The closure marks another loss for the East Village dining scene, which has seen several longstanding establishments shut down in recent months. Cocina Clara was popular for its mole and handmade tortillas. There is no current plan for the space’s next tenant.
Local residents expressed regret over the closure. “It was a neighborhood staple,” said one longtime customer. The East Village continues to evolve with new openings and closings shaping its culinary landscape.