New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene is no exception. Among its most beloved offerings are tacos, an iconic dish that showcases a variety of flavors, textures, and techniques. From classic fillings to innovative twists, exploring the diverse taco options across the city’s neighborhoods is an adventure for the taste buds. In this list, we’ll highlight ten tantalizing taco spots, detailing their uniqueness along with essential information like addresses, contact details, and websites for your convenience. Prepare to embark on a flavorful journey through the taco landscape of New York City.
1. Los Tacos No. 1
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (646) 495-7555
Website: lostacos1.com
Located in the bustling Chelsea Market, Los Tacos No. 1 serves authentic Mexican tacos that transport you straight to the streets of Tijuana. Their carne asada taco, featuring perfectly grilled beef, cilantro, and onion, is a must-try. The simplicity of their ingredients, combined with their homemade tortillas, creates a delightful experience for any taco aficionado.
2. Tacombi
Address: 255 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (646) 678-5723
Website: tacombi.com
With a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a Mexican beach village, Tacombi is known for its fresh and colorful offerings. The pescado taco, featuring crispy fish, avocado, and tangy chipotle mayo, is a crowd favorite. Each dish is served with a side of cheerful ambiance, making it a great spot for casual gatherings.
3. Taqueria Diana
Address: 57 E 1st St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 777-5720
Website: taqueriadiana.com
Located in the heart of the East Village, Taqueria Diana focuses on high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. The pollo asado taco features marinated chicken grilled to perfection and topped with fresh salsa. The cozy and unpretentious interior makes it a gem for taco enthusiasts.
4. Los Mariscos
Address: 628A 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 695-0218
Website: losmariscosnyc.com
Proudly specializing in seafood, Los Mariscos brings the taste of coastal Mexico to Midtown Manhattan. Their shrimp taco, combined with fresh pico de gallo and a drizzle of lime creama, embodies the essence of oceanic flavors. The vibrant and refreshing ingredients present a perfect balance, making it an unmissable experience.
5. Birria-Landia
Address: 61-26 25th Ave, Queens, NY 11362
Contact: (718) 606-1781
Website: birria-landia.com
This Queens-based eatery specializes in birria tacos, where savory stewed beef meets a crispy tortilla, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Served alongside a cup of rich consommé for dipping, each bite bursts with flavor and authenticity, creating a memorable dining experience that taco lovers cherish.
6. Tortilleria Nixtamal
Address: 104-05 47th Ave, Queens, NY 11368
Contact: (718) 478-3500
Website: nixtamaltortillas.com
Renowned for its freshly made tortillas, Tortilleria Nixtamal offers a culinary journey into the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine. Their chicharrón taco, filled with crispy pork rinds and topped with onions and cilantro, is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of texture and taste that is hard to forget.
7. Empellón Al Pastor
Address: 132 W 4th St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 833-7817
Website: empellon.com
Famed for its creative interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, Empellón Al Pastor’s tacos are no exception. Their al pastor taco, featuring marinated pork, fresh pineapple, and a spicy salsa, delivers an explosion of sweet and savory flavors. The chic and inviting atmosphere enhances the experience, setting the stage for an indulgent meal.
8. Cafe El Presidente
Address: 55 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 864-1913
Website: cafeelpresidente.com
This lively establishment offers a unique twist on traditional tacos with a menu that emphasizes authentic Mexican flavors and techniques. The carne al pastor, enriched with juicy pork and topped with tangy salsa verde, embodies the heart of Mexican street food culture. The vibrant decor adds to the lively atmosphere, making it perfect for brunch or any casual occasion.
9. El Silencio
Address: 43-50 11th St, Long Island City, NY 11101
Contact: (917) 261-9786
Website: elsilencio.com
Famed for its artisanal touches, El Silencio specializes in contemporary Mexican cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients. Their duck carnitas taco, topped with pickled onions and salsa, redefines classic Taco offerings with a sophisticated twist. The modern setting provides a stylish backdrop for a culinary adventure.
10. Tacos El Bronco
Address: 4601 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220
Contact: (718) 833-6008
Website: tacoselbroncobk.com
Time-honored flavors reign supreme at Tacos El Bronco, where authentic street tacos embrace simplicity and quality. Their lengua taco, featuring tender beef tongue and zesty salsa, is a true testament to traditional Mexican cooking. The casual vibe serves to enhance the authenticity of the dining experience.
In conclusion, New York City’s taco scene is as diverse as its population, offering a myriad of flavors, styles, and atmospheres to explore. From classic, street-style tacos to modern interpretations, each location on this list promises an unforgettable culinary experience. With such a variety of tastes and textures, the city is undoubtedly a taco lover’s paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you are a longtime resident or just visiting, each taco spot invites you to indulge in a festival of flavor, bringing the vibrant essence of Mexico right to the heart of New York City.
