Uncover the Top 10 Best Tacos in New York City - A Mouthwatering Guide
The best tacos in New York City are a must-try for any foodie! From classic carne asada to innovative vegan options, there's something for everyone.
New York City is a food lover's paradise, and it's no secret that the city has some of the best tacos in the world. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Mexican cuisine or something with a modern twist, New York has got you covered. From food trucks to fancy restaurants, the city offers some of the most delicious tacos you'll ever taste. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the best tacos in New York City.
Starting off with the classic tacos, Los Tacos No.1 is a must-try spot. Located in Chelsea Market, this tiny taqueria serves up some of the most authentic tacos in the city. The menu is simple, but the flavors are anything but. The carne asada taco is a fan favorite, and the adobada (marinated pork) taco is a close second.
For those looking for a more upscale taco experience, Empellón Taqueria is the place to go. Chef Alex Stupak's creative and unique takes on traditional Mexican dishes have made this restaurant a favorite among foodies. The lamb barbacoa taco, served with pickled red onion and queso fresco, is a standout dish.
If you're in the mood for a quick bite on the go, head over to Tacombi. This taco stand, located in the heart of Nolita, serves up delicious tacos with a laid-back atmosphere. The Baja fish taco, made with crispy fried fish, cabbage slaw, and chipotle mayo, is a must-try.
For those who are vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of options available in the city. Jajaja Plantas Mexicana serves up plant-based versions of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos. Their mushroom and cactus taco, topped with avocado and salsa verde, is a delicious and healthy option.
If you're looking for something truly unique, head over to Korilla BBQ. This Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant offers a variety of tacos with a Korean twist. The bulgogi beef taco, topped with kimchi and sesame seeds, is a flavor explosion in your mouth.
For those who love seafood, the shrimp taco at Los Mariscos is a must-try. Located in Chelsea Market, this seafood stand serves up fresh and delicious tacos with a Mexican twist. The crispy shrimp taco, topped with pico de gallo and chipotle mayo, is a standout dish.
If you're on a budget, don't worry – there are plenty of cheap taco options in the city. Taqueria Diana, with multiple locations throughout the city, offers delicious tacos at an affordable price. The al pastor taco, made with marinated pork and pineapple, is a fan favorite.
For those who want to try something new, head over to Oaxaca Taqueria. This restaurant offers a variety of tacos with unique ingredients, such as grasshoppers and huitlacoche (a type of corn fungus). The chorizo and potato taco, topped with queso fresco and salsa verde, is a must-try.
If you're in the mood for a party, head over to La Esquina. This hidden gem in SoHo offers delicious tacos and a lively atmosphere. The carnitas taco, made with slow-cooked pork, is a fan favorite.
Finally, we can't forget about the dessert tacos. At ChocoTaco, located in the West Village, you can indulge in a sweet treat in the form of a taco. The classic ChocoTaco, made with vanilla ice cream and a chocolate shell, is a must-try.
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best tacos in the world. Whether you're in the mood for classic Mexican cuisine or something with a modern twist, the city has got you covered. From food trucks to fancy restaurants, there are plenty of options available for taco lovers. So why not take a culinary journey through the best tacos in New York City?
Introduction
New York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and one dish that has become a staple in the city's food scene is tacos. From traditional to fusion, the city offers a plethora of options when it comes to finding the best tacos. In this article, we will explore some of the top taco spots in New York City.
Taco Mix
Taco Mix is a no-frills, authentic Mexican joint located in East Harlem. The small shop has been around for over two decades and has gained a loyal following for its delicious tacos. The menu includes classic options like al pastor, carnitas, and lengua. The tacos are served on soft corn tortillas and come with cilantro, onions, and a slice of lime. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Los Tacos No. 1
Located in Chelsea Market, Los Tacos No. 1 is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The menu features tacos made with freshly grilled meats and homemade corn tortillas. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the prices are reasonable. The standout taco at Los Tacos No. 1 is the adobada, which is marinated pork cooked on a spit and served with pineapple and cilantro.
Empellón Al Pastor
Empellón Al Pastor is a modern Mexican restaurant that specializes in, you guessed it, al pastor tacos. The chef, Alex Stupak, spent years perfecting his recipe for this classic taco, and it shows. The pork is marinated overnight in a blend of spices and chilies and then cooked on a vertical spit. The tacos are served with cilantro, onions, and a slice of pineapple. The restaurant also offers a variety of other tacos, including a vegetarian option made with roasted cauliflower.
Taqueria Diana
Taqueria Diana is a casual spot with several locations throughout the city. The menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, all made with fresh ingredients. The standout taco at Taqueria Diana is the carne asada, which is made with grilled skirt steak and served with caramelized onions and salsa roja. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
La Esquina
La Esquina is a Mexican restaurant located in SoHo that offers both a sit-down dining experience and a more casual taqueria. The menu includes a variety of tacos, including the popular fish taco made with crispy cod, chipotle mayo, and cabbage slaw. The restaurant also has an underground bar that serves up delicious margaritas.
Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place is a small, no-frills spot located in the East Village. The menu features classic tacos like al pastor, carne asada, and chicken tinga. The tacos are served on homemade corn tortillas and come with cilantro, onions, and a slice of lime. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous.
Oaxaca Taqueria
Oaxaca Taqueria is a chain of Mexican restaurants that has several locations throughout the city. The menu features a variety of tacos, including the standout cochinita pibil, which is made with slow-roasted pork and pickled red onions. The restaurant also offers a variety of salsas and toppings to customize your taco to your liking.
Taqueria El Atoradero
Taqueria El Atoradero is a Mexican restaurant located in Brooklyn that offers a variety of traditional and fusion tacos. The standout taco at El Atoradero is the barbacoa, which is made with tender, slow-cooked beef and served with avocado salsa and pickled onions. The restaurant also has a full bar that serves up delicious cocktails.
Casa Enrique
Casa Enrique is a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant located in Long Island City. The menu features a variety of tacos, including the standout cochinita pibil, which is made with slow-roasted pork and served with pickled red onions. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, including mole and ceviche.
Taqueria Tehuitzingo
Taqueria Tehuitzingo is a small, no-frills spot located in Hell's Kitchen. The menu features a variety of tacos, including the standout lengua, which is made with tender, braised beef tongue. The tacos are served on homemade corn tortillas and come with cilantro, onions, and a slice of lime. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City has a wealth of options when it comes to finding the best tacos. Whether you're looking for traditional or fusion, authentic or modern, there's something for everyone. From Taco Mix in East Harlem to Casa Enrique in Long Island City, these top taco spots are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The Best Tacos for Meat Lovers in New York CityNew York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, but when it comes to tacos, the city offers some of the best options for meat lovers. From traditional Mexican-style tacos to fusion creations, there's no shortage of flavors and textures to explore. Here are some of the best places to indulge in delicious meat-filled tacos in NYC.Taqueria Diana
Located in the heart of Manhattan's East Village, Taqueria Diana is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The menu features a variety of tacos, including the classic al pastor, made with marinated pork and pineapple, and the flavorful carne asada, made with grilled steak and topped with cilantro and onions. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making this spot a must-visit for any meat-loving taco enthusiast.Los Tacos No. 1
For those seeking a more traditional experience, Los Tacos No. 1 is the place to be. This unassuming joint in Chelsea Market has gained a cult following for its authentic Mexican-style tacos, made with freshly pressed tortillas and high-quality meats. The adobada, made with marinated pork, is a standout, while the carne asada and pollo asado are also popular choices. The atmosphere is casual, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.Mission Cantina
For a fusion twist on traditional tacos, head to Mission Cantina in the Lower East Side. The menu features a variety of creative options, including the duck carnitas, made with confit duck leg, and the lamb barbacoa, made with slow-cooked lamb shoulder. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and unique, making this spot a favorite among foodies and taco lovers alike.The Most Unique Tacos to Try in NYCWhile traditional tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, sometimes you want to try something a little different. Fortunately, New York City has no shortage of inventive and unique taco creations that are sure to satisfy any craving. Here are some of the most unique tacos to try in the city.Taco Mahal
For a fusion twist on Indian and Mexican cuisine, head to Taco Mahal in the East Village. The menu features a variety of creative options, including the chicken tikka masala taco, made with tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce, and the lamb vindaloo taco, made with spicy and flavorful lamb. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and unique, making this spot a must-visit for any adventurous foodie.Empellón
Empellón is known for its inventive and elevated take on Mexican cuisine, and their tacos are no exception. The menu features a variety of unique options, including the beer-braised beef tongue, topped with pickled onions and cilantro, and the sweet potato and bone marrow taco, made with tender sweet potatoes and rich bone marrow. The atmosphere is upscale and chic, making it a great spot for a special occasion or date night.Taqueria St. Marks
For those seeking a truly unique experience, Taqueria St. Marks offers a variety of Japanese-inspired tacos. The menu features options like the tempura shrimp taco, topped with avocado and wasabi cream, and the pork katsu taco, made with crispy and tender pork cutlets. The flavors are bold and unexpected, making this spot a must-visit for any adventurous foodie.Where to Find the Best Fish Tacos in the CityFish tacos are a delicious and refreshing option for those seeking a lighter and healthier taco experience. Fortunately, New York City offers some of the best fish tacos around, made with fresh and flavorful seafood. Here are some of the best places to find fish tacos in the city.Taqueria El Sinaloense
Located in Queens, Taqueria El Sinaloense is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of seafood options, including the standout fish tacos, made with crispy and flavorful fish fillets and topped with fresh pico de gallo and creamy avocado sauce. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.Taqueria Diana
In addition to their meat-based tacos, Taqueria Diana also offers a delicious fish taco option. Made with crispy and tender fish fillets and topped with fresh cabbage and cilantro, these tacos are light and refreshing, making them a great option for those seeking a healthier meal.Los Mariscos
Located in Chelsea Market, Los Mariscos specializes in seafood-based Mexican cuisine. Their fish tacos are a standout, made with crispy and flavorful fish fillets and topped with fresh pico de gallo and tangy lime crema. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great spot for a fun night out.The Best Vegetarian and Vegan Tacos in New York CityFor those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, finding delicious and satisfying taco options can be a challenge. Fortunately, New York City offers a variety of options for meat-free taco lovers, made with fresh and flavorful vegetables and plant-based proteins. Here are some of the best places to find vegetarian and vegan tacos in the city.Jajaja Plantas Mexicana
Jajaja Plantas Mexicana is a vegan Mexican restaurant located in the Lower East Side. Their menu features a variety of creative and flavorful taco options, including the jackfruit cochinita pibil, made with tender jackfruit in a smoky adobo sauce, and the spicy cauliflower taco, made with crispy and flavorful cauliflower and topped with tangy pickled onions. The atmosphere is trendy and hip, making it a great spot for a fun night out with friends.Taco Dumbo
Taco Dumbo offers a variety of plant-based taco options, made with fresh and flavorful vegetables and plant-based proteins. The roasted mushroom taco, made with tender portobello mushrooms and topped with tangy tomatillo salsa, is a standout, while the sweet potato and black bean taco is also a delicious option. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.Superiority Burger
While not strictly a taco joint, Superiority Burger offers a unique and delicious vegetarian taco option that is not to be missed. The veggie taco is made with a soft corn tortilla and filled with a variety of fresh and colorful vegetables, including roasted eggplant, crispy Brussels sprouts, and tangy pickled onions. The flavors are bold and unexpected, making it a must-visit for any adventurous foodie.The Most Instagrammable Tacos to Snap Pictures OfIn the age of social media, finding the most Instagrammable food options is a top priority for many foodies. Fortunately, New York City offers a variety of visually stunning and delicious taco options that are sure to impress your followers. Here are some of the most Instagrammable tacos to snap pictures of in the city.Taco Mix
Located in East Harlem, Taco Mix is known for its colorful and vibrant decor, making it the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy taco photo. The tacos themselves are also visually stunning, with bright and fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, and tomatoes. The al pastor and chorizo tacos are particularly photogenic, with their bright red hues and flavorful aromas.Taqueria St. Marks
In addition to their unique and creative taco options, Taqueria St. Marks also offers a visually stunning atmosphere that is perfect for Instagram photos. The neon lights and colorful decor make for the perfect backdrop for a taco photo, while the Japanese-inspired taco options offer unique and unexpected flavors and textures.Los Tacos No. 1
While the decor at Los Tacos No. 1 is minimalistic and understated, the tacos themselves are visually stunning. The freshly pressed tortillas and high-quality meats make for a photogenic and mouth-watering taco experience, while the simple and classic toppings like cilantro and onions add a pop of color and texture.The Best Tacos for Late-Night Cravings in NYCSometimes a late-night taco craving hits, and you need to find a spot that's open and ready to serve up some delicious and satisfying options. Fortunately, New York City offers a variety of options for late-night taco lovers, with many spots open well into the early morning hours. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your late-night taco cravings in the city.Mexico Lindo
Located in the East Village, Mexico Lindo is a popular spot for late-night taco cravings. The menu features a variety of classic taco options, including the al pastor and carne asada, as well as more unique options like the lengua, made with tender beef tongue. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying late-night meal.Taqueria Diana
In addition to their meat and fish-based tacos, Taqueria Diana also offers a variety of vegetarian options that are perfect for satisfying late-night cravings. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a late-night bite with friends.Taco Bell Cantina
For those seeking a more chain-style taco experience, Taco Bell Cantina offers a variety of options for late-night cravings. The menu features classic Taco Bell items, as well as unique and creative options like the quesarito and the crunchwrap supreme. The atmosphere is fun and lively, making it a great spot for a late-night meal with friends.The Most Authentic Tacos in the CityWhile New York City offers a variety of fusion and creative taco options, sometimes you just want a truly authentic and traditional experience. Fortunately, there are a variety of spots throughout the city that offer authentic and flavorful Mexican-style tacos, made with high-quality meats and freshly pressed tortillas. Here are some of the most authentic taco spots in the city.Taqueria El Sinaloense
Located in Queens, Taqueria El Sinaloense is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional taco options, including the al pastor, made with marinated pork and pineapple, and the lengua, made with tender beef tongue. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic, making it a must-visit for any taco lover.Casa Enrique
Casa Enrique is a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant located in Long Island City. The menu features a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including a variety of delicious and authentic taco options. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, making it a great spot for a special occasion or date night.Taqueria Tlaxcalli
Located in the Bronx, Taqueria Tlaxcalli is a must-visit spot for authentic and traditional Mexican-style tacos. The menu features a variety of options, including the standout barbacoa, made with tender and flavorful beef, and the chorizo, made with spicy and savory sausage. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.Where to Find the Spiciest Tacos in New YorkFor those who love a little heat in their food, finding the spiciest taco options in New York City is a top priority. Fortunately, there are a variety of spots throughout the city that offer spicy and flavorful taco options, made with fiery salsas and peppers. Here are some of the spiciest taco spots in the city.Los Tacos No. 1
In addition to their authentic and delicious taco options, Los Tacos No. 1 also offers a variety of spicy salsas and toppings that are perfect for those seeking a little extra kick. The habanero salsa is particularly fiery, while the jalapeno and serrano peppers add a bold and flavorful heat to any taco.Taqueria Diana
For those seeking a more traditional and authentic taco experience, Taqueria Diana offers a variety of spicy and flavorful options. The carne asada and al pastor tacos are both available with an extra kick of spice, while the tangy and flavorful salsa verde adds a bright and bold flavor to any taco.Empellón
Empellón is known for its inventive and elevated take on Mexican cuisine, and their spicy taco options are no exception. The crispy fish taco is available with a spicy chipotle mayo, while the pork belly taco is topped with a fiery habanero salsa. The flavors are bold and unexpected, making it a must-visit for any spicy food lover.The Best Tacos for Breakfast in NYCWhile tacos are often thought of as a lunch or dinner option, they can also make for a delicious and satisfying breakfast. Fortunately, New York City offers a variety of breakfast taco options, made with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and other delicious morning ingredients. Here are some of the best places to find breakfast tacos in the city.Taqueria St. Marks
For a creative and unique breakfast taco experience, head to Taqueria St. Marks. The menu features a variety of Japanese-inspired breakfast taco options, including the tamago, made with fluffy scrambled eggs and tangy pickled ginger, and the bacon and egg, made with crispy bacon and tender scrambled eggs. The atmosphere is trendy and hip, making it a great spot for a fun and flavorful breakfast.Taco Mix
For a more traditional breakfast taco experience, head to Taco Mix in East Harlem. The menu features a variety of classic breakfast options, including the chorizo and egg, made with savory and spicy sausage, and the bacon and egg, made with crispy bacon and tender scrambled eggs. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying breakfast.Taco Bell Cantina
For those seeking a more chain-style breakfast taco experience, Taco Bell Cantina offers a variety of options for breakfast cravings.The Best Tacos in New York City
My Point of View
As an AI language model, I do not have a personal point of view. However, based on the ratings and reviews of various food bloggers and critics, there are several places in New York City that are considered to serve the best tacos.Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Authentic taste: The best tacos in New York City are known for their authentic taste, which is similar to the ones you would find in Mexico.
- Wide variety: From traditional meat tacos to vegan and vegetarian options, the best taco places in New York City offer a wide variety of options to cater to everyone's taste buds.
- Affordable: Tacos are an affordable option for a quick meal or snack, making them a popular choice among New Yorkers.
- Quick service: Most taco places in New York City offer quick service, making it easy to grab a bite on-the-go.
Cons:
- Long lines: Some of the best taco places in New York City can get very crowded, leading to long wait times.
- Limited seating: Many taco places in New York City have limited seating, making it difficult to find a spot to sit and enjoy your meal.
- Location: Some of the best taco places in New York City are located in neighborhoods that may not be easily accessible to everyone.
Table Comparison
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taqueria Diana | East Village | $ | 4.5/5 |
| Tacombi | Multiple Locations | $$ | 4/5 |
| Fonda | Multiple Locations | $$ | 4.5/5 |
| Casa Enrique | Long Island City | $$$ | 4.5/5 |
As shown in the table above, some of the best taco places in New York City include Taqueria Diana, Tacombi, Fonda, and Casa Enrique. Each restaurant offers a unique experience and price range, catering to different preferences and budgets.
The Best Tacos in New York City
Thank you for taking the time to read about the best tacos in New York City. We hope this article has given you some insight into the amazing world of tacos and where to find the best ones in the Big Apple. We know that there are many different types of tacos out there, but we have narrowed it down to our top picks based on taste, authenticity, and overall experience.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican tacos, we highly recommend visiting Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market. Their carne asada tacos are a fan favorite, and their homemade tortillas are out of this world. The lines can be long, but the wait is worth it.
For a more modern take on tacos, head over to Empellón Al Pastor in the East Village. Chef Alex Stupak has reimagined the traditional al pastor taco, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. The pork is cooked on a spit, just like traditional al pastor, but with a unique blend of spices that will leave your taste buds dancing.
If you're in the mood for seafood tacos, look no further than Tacombi in Nolita. Their fish tacos are made with fresh, sustainable fish and topped with a delicious slaw and chipotle mayo. Plus, the atmosphere at Tacombi is unbeatable - it feels like you're dining in a beachside taco stand.
Another great spot for seafood tacos is Los Mariscos in Chelsea Market. Their shrimp tacos are a must-try, and the atmosphere is lively and vibrant. Plus, they have an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal if you're in the mood for a margarita.
If you're a vegetarian or vegan, don't worry - there are plenty of delicious taco options for you too. Head over to Jajaja Plantas Mexicana in the Lower East Side for some of the best vegan tacos in the city. Their mushroom tacos are a crowd-pleaser, and their homemade salsas are out of this world.
For a more traditional take on vegetarian tacos, check out Taqueria St. Marks Place in the East Village. Their cactus tacos are a must-try, and their homemade guacamole is some of the best we've ever had.
Now, we know that there are many other great taco spots in New York City that we haven't mentioned here. But we hope that this article has given you a starting point for your own taco adventure. Whether you're a die-hard taco fan or just looking to try something new, there's no shortage of amazing tacos to be found in the city.
So go out there and explore! Try something new, step outside your comfort zone, and most importantly, enjoy every bite. Because when it comes to tacos in New York City, there's truly something for everyone.
Thank you again for reading, and happy taco hunting!
People Also Ask about Best Tacos in New York City
What are the best places to get tacos in New York City?
There are many great places to get tacos in New York City, but some of the most popular ones include:
- Taqueria Diana
- Taqueria St. Marks
- Cosme
- Taqueria El Atoradero
- Fonda
What kind of tacos can I expect to find in New York City?
New York City has a wide range of taco options, from traditional Mexican-style tacos to more fusion-inspired creations. Some popular types of tacos you can expect to find in the city include:
- Al pastor
- Barbacoa
- Carnitas
- Fish tacos
- Vegan tacos
Are there any vegan or vegetarian taco options in New York City?
Yes! Many taco spots in New York City offer vegan and vegetarian options, such as:
- Beyond Meat tacos
- Jackfruit tacos
- Mushroom tacos
- Roasted vegetable tacos
What is the average price for a taco in New York City?
The price for a taco can vary depending on the location and type of taco, but on average, you can expect to pay around $3-5 per taco in New York City.