Exploring Authentic Tacos in New York City
New York City has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, elevating the taco from a supporting player to a star attraction in its vibrant food scene.
While tacos have long reigned supreme on the West Coast, the city now boasts a thriving taco culture, featuring upscale eateries that create novel flavor experiences and authentic street-style taquerias, preserving the perfection of this beloved food.
Our guide will help you uncover NYC's best tacos, capturing the essence of this culinary evolution.
LOS TACOS No.1
If you're searching for a genuine Mexican taco experience in the heart of New York City then you’ve got to visit the beloved Los Tacos No.1. This vibrant eatery is well known in the city; where locals and tourists alike gather to indulge in the flavours that transport them straight to the streets of Mexico.
At Los Tacos No.1, authenticity is the name of the game. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by the irresistible aroma of sizzling meats, freshly chopped onions, and fragrant cilantro. The place exudes a lively energy that reflects the passion for Mexican cuisine shared by its three founders who began as friends.
The menu boasts a simple selection of options, but whether you're a carnivore or a vegetarian, there's a taco for everyone. Sink your teeth into their succulent carne asada (steak), perfectly grilled and bursting with flavour. Or, opt for the tender and juicy adobada (pork) or pollo (chicken) options, marinated in a secret blend of spices. Vegetarians will be delighted by the mouthwatering nopal (cactus) taco, a delightful surprise that showcases the versatility of Mexican cuisine.
Los Tacos No.1 uses the highest quality ingredients and of course, their tortillas are homemade.
To complement your taco feast, Los Tacos No.1 offers a selection of traditional salsas that pack a punch. From mild and tangy to fiery and intense, these salsas elevate the flavours of that yummy taco.
The atmosphere at Los Tacos No.1 is lively and inviting, mirroring the vibrant street taco stands of Mexico. It's perfect for grabbing a quick bite, paired with a refreshing Mexican soda or a freshly squeezed aguas frescas. There is no seating, in line with their street food feel, and they do not serve alcohol.
Los Tacos No.1 is more than just a taqueria; it's a destination that brings the heart and soul of Mexico to the streets of New York City. There are multiple locations throughout NYC including the original branch in Chelsea Market.
Remember not to let the queues put you off, they’re efficient at service and tacos are quick to eat so you won’t be kept waiting too long - plus it’ll be worth the wait!
Los Mariscos
When three friends come together to bring the great taste of Mexico to NYC and succeed, what do they do? They open a new restaurant. Los Mariscos is the place to go if you want Mexican seafood, specialising in fish tacos, ceviche, and cocteles (cocktails) from their counter. This place has a real buzz about it, so get comfortable, enjoy a beer or cocktail, and choose from an array of hot sauces to add to your taco. Your night is sure to get spicy here!
Their vision was to create a haven for Mexican seafood lovers, and they have truly succeeded. Specialising in mouthwatering fish tacos, zesty ceviche, and cocteles (cocktails), Los Mariscos is a vibrant eatery that scores on both taste and atmosphere. This spot shouldn’t be overshadowed by the more famous taqueria mentioned above.
The centerpiece of Los Mariscos is their bustling counter, where a team of skilled chefs prepares a wide variety of tantalising dishes. Indulge in their signature fish tacos, combining crispy battered fish with vibrant toppings and a selection of fresh salsas. The ceviche is marinated in zesty citrus juices. So be sure to take a seat, get comfortable, and allow yourself to be immersed in the lively ambiance; I suspect you’ll be visiting the counter multiple times because once you’ve had your first bite you’ll want more and more off the menu.
Los Mariscos proudly offers an array of hot sauces lined up on each table/ counter. From mild to fiery, these sauces are the perfect accompaniment to add an extra kick to your tacos.
This restaurant is a celebration of Mexican seafood cuisine and the vibrant culture that surrounds it. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this buzzing hotspot where friends, flavours, and fun come together to create and fun dining experience.
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